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I Ching Hexagram #39 Water / Mountain

Obstruction

水山蹇 (Jian)

Obstruction. The southwest furthers. The northeast does not further. It furthers one to see the great person.

The Judgment & Decision

[Original Judgment]
利西南,不利东北;利见大人,贞吉。
Vernacular Essence: 高山险水当道,反躬内省之象。道路险阻暂缓前行,反思修己待援求助。
Translation: Obstruction. The southwest furthers. The northeast does not further. It furthers one to see the great person.
[Commentary on the Decision]

蹇,难也,险在前也。见险而能止,知矣哉!

The Great Symbolism & Virtue

《象》曰:山上有水,蹇;君子以反身修德。

The Symbolism: Obstruction

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.