#39
Obstruction
蹇
— Jiǎn
Upper trigram: Water (Kǎn) · Lower trigram: Mountain (Gèn)
Overall meaning
Hexagram Obstruction symbolizes lameness and great difficulty. Upper trigram is Water (danger), lower is Mountain (stop) — danger ahead, cannot advance; mountain behind, cannot retreat. This is the time to pause, think, and find helpers.
Judgment text (Thoán từ)
Obstruction: the southwest furthers — the northeast does not further. It furthers one to see the great person — perseverance brings good fortune. Find a way around and helpers.
Line texts (6 lines)
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1
First Six: Going leads to obstructions, coming meets with praise. Advancing meets difficulty, returning brings respect — knowing when to stop.
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2
Second Six: The king's servant is beset by obstruction upon obstruction — but it is not his own fault. Difficulty due to duty to the king — not for personal interest.
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3
Third Nine: Going leads to obstructions, hence he comes back. Advance meets too great obstacle — returning is right.
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4
Fourth Six: Going leads to obstructions, coming leads to union. Advance meets obstruction but unite with others to overcome.
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5
Fifth Nine: In the midst of the greatest obstructions, friends come. Still at the height in great difficulty — friends and helpers arrive.
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6
Top Six: Going leads to obstructions, coming leads to great good fortune — it furthers one to see the great person. Finally overcome every obstacle — meet the great one and achieve much.
Applications by topic
- Marriage
- The relationship faces many obstacles. Find experienced people for advice. Don't handle alone — need support from family.
- Career
- Facing great career difficulty. Find advisors and partners. Sometimes the roundabout is the fastest path.
- Wealth
- Serious financial obstacles. Find a financial advisor. Don't try to solve alone.
- Health
- Health has serious issues needing professional help. See a doctor immediately and follow guidance. Don't self-treat.
- Lawsuit
- Very complex case with many obstacles. Need a strong, experienced lawyer. Find another way to approach rather than direct confrontation.
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