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Hexagram 39: Obstruction

䷦ 蹇 (Jiǎn) · Obstruction. Turn inward and seek help past the barrier.

obstacle, reflection, allies, patience

Lower trigram: Mountain ☶ · Upper trigram: Water ☵

The judgment

The way ahead is blocked, like a steep mountain with a torrent beyond it. Pressing straight into the obstacle helps no one; turning toward easier ground, seeking good counsel and working with others does. Use the halt to look inward and strengthen yourself.

The image

Water on top of the Mountain: a torrent bars the way up. When you meet a barrier, look first at yourself and work on who you are.

The six lines

Read only the lines that changed in your casting, counting from the bottom.

• Line 1 (bottom): Going forward runs into obstacles, while holding back earns respect. Wait for the right moment.
• Line 2: Obstacle piles on obstacle, but it isn't your fault; you are facing them out of duty to others. Keep going without blaming yourself.
• Line 3: Going on leads into trouble, so you turn back to those who need you. Your return is welcome.
• Line 4: Going alone leads to obstruction, while coming back to join others brings the strength you need. Gather allies before you try again.
• Line 5: Just when the way is most blocked, friends show up. Steadiness at the center draws helpers to you.
• Line 6 (top): Pressing on leads to obstruction, while coming back to help others leads to great good. Seek out someone wise and experienced, and let them guide the next step.

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