#15
Modesty
謙
— Qiān
Upper trigram: Earth (Kūn) · Lower trigram: Mountain (Gèn)
Overall meaning
Hexagram Modesty symbolizes the virtue of modesty — the most precious quality of the superior person. Upper trigram is Earth, lower is Mountain — a high mountain hidden beneath the earth, not flaunting its strength. Among the 64 hexagrams, Modesty is the only one whose six lines all yield good outcomes.
Judgment text (Thoán từ)
Modesty: success. The superior person carries things through to completion. The virtue of modesty brings lasting success.
Line texts (6 lines)
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1
First Six: Modest about modesty — it furthers one to cross the great water, good fortune. The capable who remain modest overcome every challenge.
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2
Second Six: Modesty made known — perseverance brings good fortune. True modesty is naturally recognized and praised.
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3
Third Nine: Modest in toil — the superior person carries through, good fortune. Achievement combined with modesty brings every conclusion to fulfillment.
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4
Fourth Six: Nothing that does not further — show modesty. Modesty must not only be inward but expressed outwardly.
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5
Fifth Six: Not boasting wealth before one's neighbor — it furthers to use military force; in everything it furthers. Modesty is not weakness — act decisively when needed.
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6
Top Six: Modesty made known — it furthers to set armies marching, to chastise one's own city and country. The virtue of modesty leads to leadership success and the people's submission.
Applications by topic
- Marriage
- Modesty is the foundation of marital happiness. Not arrogant, knowing how to listen and yield. The relationship lasts long.
- Career
- Modesty is the key to lasting promotion. Don't claim others' credit, support and yield. Trusted and entrusted for the long term.
- Wealth
- Manage finances cautiously, do not flaunt. Avoid showing wealth. Stable, sustainable investment beats chasing quick profit.
- Health
- Good health with moderation in everything. Not overworking, not over-leisured. Watch joints and stomach.
- Lawsuit
- Modesty and non-aggression are advantages. A peaceable manner gains the arbiter's sympathy. Reconciliation often beats confrontation.
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