Hexagram 47
Oppression (Kùn)
Above: Lake · Below: Water
The lake has run dry, and you are stuck
Video
The judgment
Hardship can wear out a path forward. A person of good character who keeps to what is right will have good fortune; but right now, whatever you say, people won't believe it.
The Image: A lake with no water: oppression. So the noble person stakes their life on following their purpose.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
No water in the lake; trapped and exhausted. Nothing grows — cultivate your character and stay quiet.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
The mat is full of needles, impossible to lie on; every move brings regret, and both word and deed go wrong.
The mat is full of needles and you can't lie down. Every move brings regret; whatever you say or do comes out wrong.
Takashima
- On fortune: when hardship has gone this far, it is best to accept your lot calmly.
- On trade: your capital is exhausted and the times are dangerous. Better to come home, and you can escape the trap.
Five common questions
Timing
Hard times; stay calm and hold steady
Health
Get treatment early; don't overwork or stay up late
Money
Capital spent; come home and escape the trap
Home
Secure the house; the family pulls together
Love
Words not believed; hold steady and wait
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: Sitting trapped on a tree stump; he goes into a dark valley and for three years sees no one.
- Nine in the second place: Oppressed amid food and wine, the red sashes of office are coming. It is favorable to make offerings. Setting out brings misfortune, but no blame.
- Six in the third place: Oppressed by stone, leaning on thorns and thistles; he enters his house and does not see his wife. Misfortune.
- Nine in the fourth place: He comes very slowly, held up in a golden carriage. Humiliation, but it ends well.
- Nine in the fifth place: Nose and feet cut off; oppressed by those in red sashes. Slowly, joy comes. It is favorable to make offerings.
- Six at the top: Oppressed by creeping vines, unsteady and uneasy. He says, "If I move, I will regret it." If he regrets this, setting out brings good fortune.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.