Hexagram 29
The Abysmal (Kǎn)
Above: Water · Below: Water
One pit after another — keep your heart steady
Video
The judgment
Danger comes in layers, one after another. As long as you hold on to sincerity, your heart stays clear, and keeping going will earn respect.
The Image: Water flows on and on: repeated danger. So the noble person keeps virtue constant and keeps practicing the work of teaching.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Hardship and danger; pit after pit. Many obstacles — act with caution.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
… One can avoid blades and war, travel together with good fortune, and live a long life.
You can steer clear of weapons and war, walk alongside good fortune, and live long.
Takashima
- On trade: wealth is like flowing water, coming in steadily; it can last and grow — business luck runs well.
- On career and recognition: a sign of rising step by step.
Five common questions
Timing
Danger ahead; keep faith and you'll get through
Health
Keep your stomach warm; avoid cold food
Money
Keep money moving; earn less where it's risky
Home
Guard against damp; a neighbor may be building
Love
Family ties deepened; sincerity first
The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.
The six lines
- Six at the beginning: Danger repeated; one falls into a pit within the pit. Misfortune.
- Nine in the second place: The pit is dangerous. Seek small gains.
- Six in the third place: Pit upon pit, coming and going; danger, and nowhere to rest. One falls into a pit within the pit. Do not act.
- Six in the fourth place: A jug of wine and a bowl of grain, served in plain earthenware, passed in through the window. In the end, no blame.
- Nine in the fifth place: The pit is not overflowing; it is only filled to the brim. No blame.
- Six at the top: Bound with cords and ropes, shut in among thorn bushes. For three years one cannot find the way. Misfortune.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.