Hexagram
Upper TrigramMountainLower TrigramMountainLine 1 · YinLine 2 · YinLine 3 · YangLine 4 · YinLine 5 · YinLine 6 · YangKing Wen Sequence #52 · Keeping Still
I Ching Hexagram #52 Mountain / Mountain

Keeping Still

艮为山 (Gen)

Keeping Still. Keeping his back still so that he no longer feels his body. He goes into his courtyard and does not see his people. No blame.

The Judgment & Decision

[Original Judgment]
艮其背,不获其身,行其庭,不见其人,无咎。
Vernacular Essence: 重峦叠嶂静定,安止适度之象。知止而后有定,思不出位,静心安顿无咎无誉。
Translation: Keeping Still. Keeping his back still so that he no longer feels his body. He goes into his courtyard and does not see his people. No blame.
[Commentary on the Decision]

艮,止也。时止则止,时行则行,动静不失其时,其道光明。

The Great Symbolism & Virtue

《象》曰:兼山,艮;君子以思不出其位。

The Symbolism: Keeping Still

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.