Hexagram 60
Limitation (Jié)
Above: Water · Below: Lake
Have limits, but don't make yourself suffer
Video
The judgment
Moderation brings success; but moderation that is too harsh cannot last.
The Image: Water over the lake: limitation. So the noble person sets measures and standards and considers what is right conduct.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Keep principles and limits; stop at the right point. Read the times and the situation, and know how to adapt.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
The sea is king of the waters, wise, sage and clear-sighted; a hundred rivers turn to its virtue, and none rebels.
The sea is king of all rivers; every river flows to it, and not one turns away.
Takashima
- On fortune: your path is balanced and upright, with abundant wealth. Just be moderate in your spending outside and in your mind and body within. Good fortune.
- On trade: when the rules are well made and the plans are sound, there is profit in everything.
Five common questions
Timing
A balanced path; moderate within and without
Health
Eat and drink in moderation; act with care
Money
Set good rules; spend within your means
Home
A home by the water, a prosperous family
Love
Water and lake complete each other; keep a sense of measure
The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.
The six lines
- Nine at the beginning: Not going out of the inner courtyard. No blame.
- Nine in the second place: Not going out of the outer gate. Misfortune.
- Six in the third place: Without limits, there will be lamenting. No blame.
- Six in the fourth place: Contented limitation. Success.
- Nine in the fifth place: Sweet limitation. Good fortune. Going forward brings honor.
- Six at the top: Bitter limitation. Persisting brings misfortune; regret vanishes.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.