Hexagram 48
The Well (Jǐng)
Above: Water · Below: Wind
The well never moves, and everyone who passes drinks from it
Video
The judgment
The town may move, but the well does not. Its water is neither more nor less, and all who come and go drink from it.
The Image: Water above the wood: the well. So the noble person encourages the people at their work and urges them to help one another.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Still water with a living source; steady fortune. Keep to what you hold and maintain things as they are.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
Stumbling and lame, not yet up; missing the market, and catching no young deer.
Your foot is lame and you haven't got up yet; you miss the market and catch no deer.
Takashima
- On fortune: you are now in a phase where wood and water nourish each other — just right for helping each other get things done.
- On trade: a sign that profits exceed the capital invested. Good fortune.
Five common questions
Timing
Wood and water help each other get things done
Health
Nourish the kidneys; keep regular habits
Money
Profit exceeds capital; a steady flow
Home
Protect the beams from damp; keep water clean
Love
Like well water: plain and lasting
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: The well is muddy and no one drinks from it. No birds come to the old well.
- Nine in the second place: The well hole only lets one shoot at small fish; the jug is cracked and leaks.
- Nine in the third place: The well has been cleaned, but no one drinks from it — this pains my heart. It could be drawn from. If the king were clear-sighted, all would share in the blessing.
- Six in the fourth place: The well is being lined with stone. No blame.
- Nine in the fifth place: The well is clear; its cold spring water is drunk.
- Six at the top: The water is drawn up from the well; do not cover it. With sincerity, supreme good fortune.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.