Hexagram 47
Oppression
困 · Kùn · Sıkışma
Upper trigram: Lake (joyous, sharing) · Lower trigram: Water (deep, perilous, flowing)
Judgment
The lake above the water: the water has drained from the lake, leaving drought and confinement. This hexagram describes a hard period when limits narrow and words lose their credibility. In such times it is possible to keep cheer within and honesty outwardly. Distress tests inner strength; a calm and honest stance can reopen the way.
Image
There is no water in the lake: oppression. The noble-minded stake their life to stay true to their purpose.
Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)
- Line 1 (from the bottom)Sitting on a stump, bare and uneasy; entering a gloomy valley. Staying out of sight for three years can be a period of retreat.
- Line 2 (from the bottom)Oppressed amid food and wine: one with scarlet knee bands arrives. Making an offering is favorable; pushing ahead is read as unfavourable.
- Line 3 (from the bottom)Pressed by a rock, leaning on thorns: you enter the house but do not see your partner. Leaning on what cannot be trusted adds to distress.
- Line 4 (from the bottom)Comes slowly, stuck in a golden cart: embarrassment, but good in the end. Persisting on a road slowed by a great obstacle is enough.
- Line 5 (from the bottom)Nose and feet cut off, pressed by one in scarlet; slowly joy comes. A sincere offering is favorable.
- Line 6 (from the bottom)Entangled in creepers, swaying: moving brings regret; if you regret and hold back, good. Pausing to think within indecision can open the way.
Question for reflection
In the place where you feel squeezed, what would setting aside a portion of sincere cheer look like?