The I Ching Speaks!



     3.   Chun / Difficulty at the Beginning

          ---- ----
          ----------     above     K'an   The Abysmal, Water
          ---- ----
          ---- ----
          ---- ----     below     Ch^en   The Arousing, Thunder
          ----------

     The Judgement

          Difficulty at the Beginning works supreme success,
          Furthering through perseverance.
          Nothing should be undertaken.
          It furthers one to appoint helpers.

     The Image

          Clouds and thunder:
          The image of Difficulty at the Beginning.
          Thus the superior man
          Brings order out of confusion.

     The Lines

     ()   Nine at the beginning means:
          Hesitation and hindrance.
          It furthers one to remain persevering.
          It furthers one to appoint helpers.


     8.   Pi / Holding Together [Union]

          ---- ----
          ----------     above     K'an   The Abysmal, Water
          ---- ----
          ---- ----
          ---- ----     below     K'un   The Receptive, Earth
          ---- ----

     The Judgement

          Holding Together brings good fortune.
          Inquire of the oracle once again
          Whether you possess sublimity, constancy, and perseverance;
          Then there is no blame.
          Those who are uncertain gradually join.
          Whoever comes too late
          Meets with misfortune.

     The Image

          On the earth is water:
          The image of Holding Together.
          Thus the kings of antiquity
          Bestowed the different states as fiefs
          And cultivated friendly relations
          With the feudal lords.