I Ching
Hexagram 29 — The Abyss Kan
Classical meaning
Repeated abysses. With sincerity, the heart attains success. Action brings recognition.
坎。習坎。有孚。維心亨。行有尚。
Image: Water flows incessantly and reaches its goal: the image of the abyss. The noble person practices virtue tirelessly and teaches without end.
It refers to dangerous and challenging situations, but ones that are temporary.
- Abyss
- Danger
- Crossing
- Courage
- challenge
The six lines
Line 1. Repetition of the abyss. Falling deep into danger. Ruin. Avoid repeating the same mistakes. When risk becomes habitual, disaster is inevitable.
Line 2. There is danger in the abyss. Seeking small things yields limited success. In the face of danger, be content with modest gains. Safety lies in not exposing oneself beyond what is necessary.
Line 3. The danger comes incessantly, like a pillow. To enter the depths of the abyss. It must not be used. Do not normalize adversity. Accepting danger as rest paves the way to inevitable downfall.
Line 4. With simple wine and modest dishes, there is contentment. Receiving with simplicity through the window, there is no guilt. Accept the essential with gratitude. Modesty and simplicity avert misfortune, even in times of danger.
Line 5. The abyss is not filled. It is already leveled. Without guilt. When danger subsides, maintain vigilance. The attained balance requires constancy to prevent a return to chaos.
Line 6. Bound with ropes and trapped among thorns. Three years without release. Ruin. Do not allow yourself to be trapped in dead-end situations. If stagnation persists, it is a sign that one must sever ties and seek liberation, even at the cost of sacrifice.
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