48. Ching / The Well

 
 above K'an The Abysmal, Water
 
 
 below Sun The Gentle, Wind
 

The Judgement

The Well. The town may be changed,
But the well cannot be changed.
It neither decreases nor increases.
They come and go and draw from the well.
If one gets down almost to the water
And the rope does not go all the way,
Or the jug breaks, it brings misfortune.

The Image

Water over wood: the image of The Well.
Thus the superior man encourages the people at their work,
And exhorts them to help one another.

The Lines

Nine in the second place means:
At the well hole one shoots fishes.
The jug is broken and leaks.

39. Chien / Obstruction

 
 above K'an The Abysmal, Water
 
 
 below Kên Keeping Still, Mountain
 

The Judgement

Obstruction. The southwest furthers.
The northeast does not further.
It furthers one to see the great man.
Perseverance brings good fortune.

The Image

Water on the mountain:
The image of Obstruction.
Thus the superior man turns his attention to himself
And molds his character.