Hexagram 47
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困 (Kùn)
•
Kùn
Oppression (Exhaustion)
Oppression (Exhaustion) (困 (Kùn)): Upper Lake, Lower Water. Words carry no weight when dried up. Inner integrity thrives even when physically hemmed in.
Upper Trigram
Lake
Lower Trigram
Water
⚖ The Judgment
Words carry no weight when dried up. Inner integrity thrives even when physically hemmed in.
✧ The Image
Water drained from the lake; the noble person stakes life upon fulfilling sacred destiny.
Philosophical Interpretation
In the I Ching (Book of Changes), Hexagram 47 (Oppression (Exhaustion) / 困 (Kùn)) embodies the cosmic dynamic between Lake 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 Oppression (Exhaustion); 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.