Hexagram 47 — K'un, Oppression (Exhaustion)

47. K'un - Oppression (Exhaustion)
Above (in front): Tui - The Joyous (Lake)
Below (behind): K'an - The Abysmal (Water)




The Judgement for the Current Situation

Oppression. Success. Perseverance.
The great man brings about good fortune.
No blame.
When one has something to say,
It is not believed.


The Image for the Current Situation

There is no water in the lake:
The image of Exhaustion.
Thus the superior man stakes his life
On following his will.

The Lines

Please remember: I Ching lines are counted upwards (starting at the bottom line)!

Top line:

He is oppressed by creeping vines.
He moves uncertainly and says, "Movement brings remorse."
If one feels remorse over this and makes a start,
Good fortune comes.

Fifth line:
His nose and feet are cut off.
Oppression at the hands of the man with the purple knee bands.
Joy comes softly.
It furthers one to make offerings and libations.

Fourth line:
He comes very quietly, oppressed in a golden carriage.
Humiliation, but the end is reached.

Third line:
A man permits himself to be oppressed by stone,
And leans on thorns and thistles.
He enters his house and does not see his wife.
Misfortune.

Second line:
One is oppressed while at meat and drink.
The man with the scarlet knee bands is just coming.
It furthers one to offer sacrifice.
To set forth brings misfortune.
No blame.

Bottom line:
One sits oppressed under a bare tree
And strays into a gloomy valley.
For three years one sees nothing.