Standstill

Upper trigram: Heaven (strong, initiating) · Lower trigram: Earth (receptive, nourishing)

Judgment

Heaven pulls upward, earth sinks downward: the two forces move apart and communication breaks. This hexagram is the picture of blockage, of being misunderstood and of a time when paths separate. In such times, holding on to your values and not trying to stand out in appearance is suggested. A blockage need not be permanent; every departure carries the seed of a return.

Image

Heaven and earth do not mingle. The noble-minded withdraw into their inner worth and set aside the chase for rank and display in hard times.

Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)

1. 1Line 1 (from the bottom)Grass roots are pulled up together, yet this time staying with a right principle is seen as good. Standing with friends in loyalty is protective.
2. 2Line 2 (from the bottom)Bearing and enduring: good for the small-minded; the mature, acting with the patience the blockage asks for, still find a way through. Not compromising is a way of protecting yourself at this moment.
3. 3Line 3 (from the bottom)Carrying shame. The burden of a position gained by a wrong path can trouble a person.
4. 4Line 4 (from the bottom)A mandate from a higher order: the end of the blockage comes into view. Helpers moving forward together can bring a good outcome.
5. 5Line 5 (from the bottom)Bringing the blockage to a halt. Even the great person keeps watch, saying “this may collapse,” and ties safety to sturdy roots.
6. 6Line 6 (from the bottom)The blockage is overturned. First blockage, then joy: hope of a turn appears here.