The Book of Changes/I Ching: Limitation

This hexagram of I Ching/the Book of Changes shows that a lake occupies a limited space. When more water comes into it, it overflows. Therefore limits must be set for the water. The image shows water below and water above, with the firmament between them as a limit. Following is the original text of this hexagram of I Ching/the Book of Changes.

The Judgment
LIMITATION. Success.
Galling limitation must not be persevered in.

The Image
Water over lake: the image of LIMITATION.
Thus the superior man Creates number and measure, And examines the nature of virtue and correct conduct.

Lower line
Nine at the beginning means: Not going out of the door and the courtyard Is without blame.

Second line
Nine in the second place means: Not going out of the gate and the courtyard Brings misfortune.

Third line
Six in the third place means: He who knows no limitation Will have cause to lament. No blame.

Fourth line
Six in the fourth place means: Contented limitation. Success.

Fifth line
Nine in the fifth place means: Sweet limitation brings good fortune. Going brings esteem.

Upper line
Six at the top means: Galling limitation. Perseverance brings misfortune. Remorse disappears.

Click to view more articles of Confucianism and Taoism China Classics.
Click to view whole 64 divinatory symbols of I Ching/the book of changes.