arrogance brings danger and downfall

This hexagram suggests that a deepening of one’s modesty now is a sure means of improving the situation. There is no power so great as modesty for compelling the assistance of the Sage – nor one so hindering as immodesty. Those in high places who retain their modesty are loved by all and continually prosper; those below who cultivate modesty inevitably rise on the strength of their merits, without making enemies along the way.

But what does modesty mean? Certainly it entails a refusal to boast or act imperiously with others, even in small ways. But beyond this steadfast humility it also means that our effort to discern what is right and then do it is constant; we do not work against ourselves, and we do not indulge in doubts about the wisdom of correct conduct. This unwavering commitment to what is correct might be called “the modesty before the Sage”.

So there is in modesty a component of nonaction – that is, not indulging in arrogant, ego-centered behavior – as well as a component of active effort: looking for opportunities to correct ourselves, to assist justice where there is injustice, to feed where there is hunger, to give solace where there is pain.

Finally and most plainly, modesty means holding to innocence, sincerity, and openness in every situation. To do this is to empty ourself and make room for the blessings of the Creative to take root.

The I Ching, or Book of Changes

Hexagram 15, Ch’ien / Modesty

when a
person falls to
the earth

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an outpouring of benevolent energy

to the surfers who saved my life

If you are alert to the Creative,

you will meet with good

fortune now.

This hexagram signals a time when the fundamental creative power of the universe is available to you. An unrestricted outpouring of benevolent energy from the heavens makes possible profound progress for those who are conscientiously following proper principles.

Frantic activity is not in order. Your responsibility instead is to be open and receptive to the Higher Power, allowing it to guide your actions. By allowing inferior thoughts and habits to pass away, you make room for an expansion of your superior qualities, which leads inevitably to good fortune.

In your conduct with others, embody tolerance, reticence, and gentleness. Strive to meet others halfway in every situation. To overextend yourself, or require that of another, is to create an undesirable imbalance.

Your attitude toward the Sage is most important. Alertness and receptiveness are paramount. To receive the powerful assistance of the Creative, remain humble, patient, accepting, and responsive. Careful attention to truth brings vast rewards at this time.

The I Ching, or Book of Changes

Hexagram 1, Ch’ien / The Creative

FOURTH LINE

A place of transition. There is

the possibility of progress in many directions.
Let go of preconceived notions about your proper path.
You succeed by allowing the Creative to guide you.

further guidance from

wei wu wei ching chapter 1 ☯️ the way to enlightenment

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understand the open door

live close to

who you are and travel light

the magic turtle needs no food but air

be kind to fools and children know your death

the grace of age the trap of seeking pleasure

out of fear take time to understand

the open door

oracle of the turtle

As you develop yourself you

will inevitably be misunderstood by others.

Endure these times patiently, and they will pass.

By staying on the path unswervingly you

meet with great success.

fifth changing line

from The I Ching, or Book of Changes

Hexagram 53, Chien / Gradual Progress

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seek the guidance of the sage

marcin rosadziński

Surrounded by obstructions,

one must first retreat, then

seek the direction of

the Sage.

There is an old saying which fits this hexagram: “You are caught between a rock and a hard place.” In other words, you are surrounded by obstructions. As much as you may want to blame others for the difficulty, in all likelihood the true obstruction is in your own thinking. What is called for now is a retreat into self-examination and self-correction.

Emotions of desire, fear, or anger may tempt you to take action now, but do not be seduced. The presence of these strong feelings is proof that your are off balance and need to steady yourself. As long as you try to forcibly achieve results—rather than carefully following higher truth step by step—you will be obstructed from making personal progress.

Whenever we indulge in judgements about others, we obstruct our own peace of mind and progress. We should choose instead to see the best in others, allow them to come and go as they will, and turn our energies inward, toward self-improvement.

Often the faults in our own thinking are revealed only with the aid of others. You would be wise now to seek the advice of a qualified counselor or truth-minded friend. Retreat, self-examination, and self-correction will remove the obstructions that block your path now.

The I Ching, or Book of Changes

Hexagram 39, Chien / Obstruction