Hexagram 29
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坎 (Kǎn)
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Kǎn
The Abysmal (Water)
The Abysmal (Water) (坎 (Kǎn)): Upper Water, Lower Water. Danger repeated. If you are sincere, you possess heart-centered mastery in the abyss.
Upper Trigram
Water
Lower Trigram
Water
⚖ The Judgment
Danger repeated. If you are sincere, you possess heart-centered mastery in the abyss.
✧ The Image
Water flows ceaselessly into chasms; the noble person maintains steady virtue.
Philosophical Interpretation
In the I Ching (Book of Changes), Hexagram 29 (The Abysmal (Water) / 坎 (Kǎn)) embodies the cosmic dynamic between Water above and Water below. It teaches that wisdom arises from understanding seasonal transitions and adhering to moral constancy.
The Six Changing Lines
- 1 Line 1: Beginning phase of The Abysmal (Water); observe quiet reserve.
- 2 Line 2: Inner equilibrium aligned with virtuous company.
- 3 Line 3: Transition point; rash action invites complication.
- 4 Line 4: Deep breakthrough; sincerity dissipates lingering doubts.
- 5 Line 5: Central sovereign seat; radiant integrity guides the collective.
- 6 Line 6: Culmination and apex; beware hubris as the cycle turns.