井
The Well
Le Puits
Jǐng
Upper trigram
Water
Lower trigram
Wind
The Judgment
The Well. One may change the city, but one cannot change the well. It neither decreases nor increases. They come and they go and draw from the well.
The Image
Above the wood there is water: the image of the Well. Thus the noble person encourages the people to work and exhorts them to mutual help.
Meaning
An inexhaustible source, a fundamental resource. The well nourishes without being depleted. The moment invites one to draw upon one's deep resources and to share them.
The six lines
Line 1 (bottom)
The mud of the well is not drunk. No animal comes to an old well.
Line 2
At the well's hole, one fishes. The pitcher is broken and leaks.
Line 3
The well is cleaned, but one does not drink from it. This is the sorrow of my heart, for one could draw from it. If the king were clear-sighted, happiness would be shared.
Line 4
The well is lined with stones. No blame.
Line 5
In the well there is a clear, fresh spring from which one can drink.
Line 6 (top)
One draws from the well without hindrance. It is trustworthy. Sublime fortune.