Hexagram
Upper TrigramWaterLower TrigramWaterLine 1 · YinLine 2 · YangLine 3 · YinLine 4 · YinLine 5 · YangLine 6 · YinKing Wen Sequence #29 · The Abysmal
I Ching Hexagram #29 Water / Water

The Abysmal

坎为水 (Kan)

The Abysmal repeated. If you are sincere, you have success in your heart, and whatever you do succeeds.

The Judgment & Decision

[Original Judgment]
习坎,有孚,维心亨,行有尚。
Vernacular Essence: 重重险滩流水,坚心持重之象。履险如夷、内心不乱,以诚相见则困境必解。
Translation: The Abysmal repeated. If you are sincere, you have success in your heart, and whatever you do succeeds.
[Commentary on the Decision]

习坎,重险也。水流而不盈,行险而不失其信。

The Great Symbolism & Virtue

《象》曰:水洊至,习坎;君子以常德行,习教事。

The Symbolism: The Abysmal

The Six Lines & Dynamics

First Line
Line 1

初潜修德,厚积薄发。

《象》曰:行事之初,正固为本。

Insight: Early phase: cultivate virtue and build firm foundations.

Second Line
Line 2

得中居正,顺理成章。

《象》曰:居中守正,吉无咎也。

Insight: Progressing in balance: centered action brings auspicious support.

Third Line
Line 3

多凶多惧,终日惕厉。

《象》曰:处于转折,慎终如始。

Insight: Critical juncture: remain vigilant and cautious amidst uncertainty.

Fourth Line
Line 4

审时度势,顺应高明。

《象》曰:顺应高明,获其志也。

Insight: High responsibility: adapt wisely and maintain integrity without arrogance.

Fifth Line
Line 5

居尊当位,光被四表。

《象》曰:大君之位,德施普也。

Insight: Peak position of authority: lead with virtue and broad benevolence.

Top Line
Line 6

高亢知戒,顺应转机。

《象》曰:物极当变,持盈保泰。

Insight: Culmination: beware of extremes and prepare gracefully for renewal.