Hexagram 39 of 64
Obstruction
蹇 · Jiǎn
Kan (Water) · Gen (Mountain)
The Judgment
In (the state indicated by) Kien advantage will be found in the south-west, and the contrary in the north-east. It will be advantageous (also) to meet with the great man. (In these circumstances), with firmness and correctness, there will be good fortune.
The six lines
Line 1
From the first SIX, divided, we learn that advance (on the part of its subject) will lead to (greater) difficulties, while remaining stationary will afford ground for praise.
Line 2
The second SIX, divided, shows the minister of the king struggling with difficulty on difficulty, and not with a view to his own advantage.
Line 3
The third NINE, undivided, shows its subject advancing, (but only) to (greater) difficulties. He remains stationary, and returns (to his former associates).
Line 4
The fourth SIX, divided, shows its subject advancing, (but only) to (greater) difficulties. He remains stationary, and unites (with the subject of the line above).
Line 5
The fifth NINE, undivided, shows its subject struggling with the greatest difficulties, while friends are coming to help him.
Line 6
The topmost SIX, divided, shows its subject going forward, (only to increase) the difficulties, while his remaining stationary will be (productive of) great (merit). There will be good fortune, and it will be advantageous to meet with the great man.
Core themes
- obstacles
- pause
- seeking help
- inner work
Classical text: James Legge's translation (1882, public domain), shown in English. Translations are on their way.