Hexagram N°39

Obstruction

L'Obstacle

Jiǎn

Upper trigram

Water

Lower trigram

Mountain

The Judgment

Obstruction. The southwest is advantageous. The northeast is not advantageous. It is advantageous to see the great man. Perseverance brings good fortune.

The Image

Water on the mountain: the image of Obstruction. Thus the superior man turns his attention to himself and cultivates his character.

Meaning

Difficulty, impasse, obstruction. When faced with an obstacle, returning to oneself is the path. The moment calls for introspection and seeking counsel.

The six lines

Line 1 (bottom)

Going leads to obstructions, coming meets with praise.

Line 2

The king's servant encounters obstruction upon obstruction, but it is not his own fault.

Line 3

Going leads to obstructions, therefore he returns.

Line 4

Going leads to obstructions, coming leads to union.

Line 5

Amidst the greatest obstructions, friends come.

Line 6 (top)

Going leads to obstructions, coming leads to great good fortune. It is advantageous to see the great man.