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I Ching · 64 Hexagrams
Zhouyi I Ching Hexagram 48: The Well Hexagram, Water over Wind, Water above Wind
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The Well: Change the settlement but not the well; there is neither loss nor gain. People come and go and draw from the well. Almost at the well yet not having drawn it up, the jar breaks; misfortune.
The Tuan Commentary says: The Well. The yielding Wind enters the Water and brings water upward. The Well nourishes without end. “Change the settlement but not the well” is because of firmness in the center. “Almost at the well yet not having drawn it up” means no achievement has been made. “The jar breaks,” hence misfortune.
The Image says: Wood above Water is the Well. The noble person therefore labors for the people and encourages mutual assistance.
Hexagram 48 — original text and overview
Detailed explanation of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Original text of Hexagram The Well
The Well. Change the settlement but not the well; there is neither loss nor gain. People come and go and draw from the well. Almost at the well, yet not having drawn it up, the jar breaks; misfortune.
The Image says: Wood above Water is the Well. The noble person therefore labors for the people and encourages mutual assistance.
Explanation in plain language
Hexagram The Well: Rebuilding a settlement without rebuilding the well is equivalent to doing nothing. People come and go to draw water, but when the well dries up and becomes clogged, failing to clean it and instead breaking the water jar is an ominous image.
The Image Commentary says: The lower trigram of this hexagram is Wind, and Wind is wood; the upper trigram is Gorge, and Gorge is water. Water soaks downward while trees grow upward—this is the image of the Well hexagram. Observing this image, the exemplary person takes the well water that nourishes people as a model, thereby encouraging the people to work diligently and encourage one another.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Jing hexagram has Kan above and Xun below, and is a fifth-generation hexagram of the Zhen Palace. A well cannot be moved, symbolizing stillness; this hexagram also reminds the diviner to remain settled in their place, abide by the right path, and avoid greed.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Still water connects with its source; the qi and fortune are calm. Do not change what you uphold; maintain the current situation.
Those who receive this hexagram should cultivate themselves and nourish their nature, follow nature, and face matters calmly. Stillness is beneficial; movement is inauspicious.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Wood and Water nourish each other; fame and achievement are promising.
Wealth: Benefits exceed the principal; naturally this is pleasing.
Residence: Repair the house and guard against water; Yin and Yang are properly balanced.
Health: Excessive kidney-water swelling; seek treatment immediately.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This hexagram consists of different trigrams doubled, with Wind below and Water above. Water is Water; Wind is wood. Trees flourish when they receive water. People depend on wells for life, and wells are dug by people. They nourish each other: the well nourishes people with water, and people should take this virtue as a model, working diligently and encouraging themselves.
Great Image: Water is absorbed by plants, nourishing their trunks; it also symbolizes a vessel lowered into a well to draw water, suggesting thrift and repetition.
Fortune: A well is a stationary object and cannot be moved. Therefore one should not be aggressive or take the initiative in anything; remaining calm is more beneficial.
Career: You are in a stable state. Neither rush forward nor retreat; instead, study and improve diligently with a positive attitude, strengthen your abilities, and wait for the right opportunity to rise. Great achievements will follow. The greatest danger is stopping and failing to advance, for you may then be eliminated as outdated.
Business: Market conditions are good, so continue according to the original policy. At the same time, continue with a diligent and enterprising spirit, sincerely develop the market, pay particular attention to cooperation, help one another, and enrich and accumulate experience through practice.
Seeking fame: With a proper purpose, contribute to society and study diligently for that purpose. Pay particular attention to learning from virtuous people so that you may be noticed and recommended.
Marriage and relationships: There is no need to hurry; a well-matched partner will appear.
Decision-making: You are intelligent, alert, and willing to help others. You will also have opportunities to fully display your talents. As long as you learn the spirit of the “well”—sincere dedication and constantly enriching your abilities—you will certainly gain society’s respect.
Philosophical meaning of the forty-eighth hexagram
The image of Hexagram The Well and the symbolic meaning of Water over Wind
The Well hexagram consists of two differing trigrams placed together, with Wind below and Gorge above. Gorge is water above, while Wind is wood below. A wooden bucket breaks through the water from below and draws it upward, just as water is drawn from a well; hence it is called “The Well.”
There is water in the well, and trees flourish when they receive water. People depend on wells for life, and wells are dug by people. They nourish each other: the well nourishes people with water and does not run dry for a long time. People should adopt this virtue and encourage themselves to work diligently.
Hexagram The Well follows Hexagram Oppression. The Sequence says: “What is oppressed above must return to correctness, therefore The Well follows.” After Rise and Oppression, one must return to what is below; therefore the next topic is The Well.
The Image Commentary explains this line as follows: Water above wood is the Well; the exemplary person labors for the people and encourages mutual assistance. It points out that the image of the Well hexagram is Wind (wood) below and Gorge (water) above. In other words, water travels upward along the trunk of a tree until it reaches the crown, presenting the image of water from a well being ceaselessly drawn up to the surface; therefore it symbolizes inexhaustibility. Well water is inexhaustible and tirelessly nourishes people. The exemplary person should emulate this virtue, labor tirelessly for the welfare of the public, and promote a social ethos of taking joy in helping others.
Hexagram The Well symbolizes inexhaustibility and belongs to the supreme auspicious category. The Image says: The dry, ruined well has been neglected for many years; one day a fresh spring flows out, nourishing life and relieving people’s thirst, admired by all. When the time comes, fortune naturally turns for the better.
Original text of Hexagram The Well
The Well. Change the settlement but not the well; there is neither loss nor gain. People come and go and draw from the well. Almost at the well, yet not having drawn it up, the jar breaks; misfortune.
The Image says: Wood above Water is the Well. The noble person therefore labors for the people and encourages mutual assistance.
Explanation in plain language
Hexagram The Well: Rebuilding a settlement without rebuilding the well is equivalent to doing nothing. People come and go to draw water, but when the well dries up and becomes clogged, failing to clean it and instead breaking the water jar is an ominous image.
The Image Commentary says: The lower trigram of this hexagram is Wind, and Wind is wood; the upper trigram is Gorge, and Gorge is water. Water soaks downward while trees grow upward—this is the image of the Well hexagram. Observing this image, the exemplary person takes the well water that nourishes people as a model, thereby encouraging the people to work diligently and encourage one another.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Jing hexagram has Kan above and Xun below, and is a fifth-generation hexagram of the Zhen Palace. A well cannot be moved, symbolizing stillness; this hexagram also reminds the diviner to remain settled in their place, abide by the right path, and avoid greed.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Still water connects with its source; the qi and fortune are calm. Do not change what you uphold; maintain the current situation.
Those who receive this hexagram should cultivate themselves and nourish their nature, follow nature, and face matters calmly. Stillness is beneficial; movement is inauspicious.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Wood and Water nourish each other; fame and achievement are promising.
Wealth: Benefits exceed the principal; naturally this is pleasing.
Residence: Repair the house and guard against water; Yin and Yang are properly balanced.
Health: Excessive kidney-water swelling; seek treatment immediately.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This hexagram consists of different trigrams doubled, with Wind below and Water above. Water is Water; Wind is wood. Trees flourish when they receive water. People depend on wells for life, and wells are dug by people. They nourish each other: the well nourishes people with water, and people should take this virtue as a model, working diligently and encouraging themselves.
Great Image: Water is absorbed by plants, nourishing their trunks; it also symbolizes a vessel lowered into a well to draw water, suggesting thrift and repetition.
Fortune: A well is a stationary object and cannot be moved. Therefore one should not be aggressive or take the initiative in anything; remaining calm is more beneficial.
Career: You are in a stable state. Neither rush forward nor retreat; instead, study and improve diligently with a positive attitude, strengthen your abilities, and wait for the right opportunity to rise. Great achievements will follow. The greatest danger is stopping and failing to advance, for you may then be eliminated as outdated.
Business: Market conditions are good, so continue according to the original policy. At the same time, continue with a diligent and enterprising spirit, sincerely develop the market, pay particular attention to cooperation, help one another, and enrich and accumulate experience through practice.
Seeking fame: With a proper purpose, contribute to society and study diligently for that purpose. Pay particular attention to learning from virtuous people so that you may be noticed and recommended.
Marriage and relationships: There is no need to hurry; a well-matched partner will appear.
Decision-making: You are intelligent, alert, and willing to help others. You will also have opportunities to fully display your talents. As long as you learn the spirit of the “well”—sincere dedication and constantly enriching your abilities—you will certainly gain society’s respect.
Philosophical meaning of the forty-eighth hexagram
The image of Hexagram The Well and the symbolic meaning of Water over Wind
The Well hexagram consists of two differing trigrams placed together, with Wind below and Gorge above. Gorge is water above, while Wind is wood below. A wooden bucket breaks through the water from below and draws it upward, just as water is drawn from a well; hence it is called “The Well.”
There is water in the well, and trees flourish when they receive water. People depend on wells for life, and wells are dug by people. They nourish each other: the well nourishes people with water and does not run dry for a long time. People should adopt this virtue and encourage themselves to work diligently.
Hexagram The Well follows Hexagram Oppression. The Sequence says: “What is oppressed above must return to correctness, therefore The Well follows.” After Rise and Oppression, one must return to what is below; therefore the next topic is The Well.
The Image Commentary explains this line as follows: Water above wood is the Well; the exemplary person labors for the people and encourages mutual assistance. It points out that the image of the Well hexagram is Wind (wood) below and Gorge (water) above. In other words, water travels upward along the trunk of a tree until it reaches the crown, presenting the image of water from a well being ceaselessly drawn up to the surface; therefore it symbolizes inexhaustibility. Well water is inexhaustible and tirelessly nourishes people. The exemplary person should emulate this virtue, labor tirelessly for the welfare of the public, and promote a social ethos of taking joy in helping others.
Hexagram The Well symbolizes inexhaustibility and belongs to the supreme auspicious category. The Image says: The dry, ruined well has been neglected for many years; one day a fresh spring flows out, nourishing life and relieving people’s thirst, admired by all. When the time comes, fortune naturally turns for the better.
Hexagram 48 — line-by-line explanation
Detailed explanation of the first line of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Initial Six line statement
Initial Six: Well mud is not fit to drink; an old well has no birds.
The Image says: Well mud is not fit to drink because it is below. An old well has no birds because it has been abandoned by the times.
Explanation in plain language
Initial Six: The well water is muddy and undrinkable. The collapsed pit can no longer hold wild animals.
The Image Commentary says: The well water is muddy and undrinkable because earth has fallen into it. The collapsed pit can no longer hold wild animals, meaning that people have abandoned this pit and no longer use it.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who receive this line will encounter obstruction in their plans. Officials will be relegated to idle posts; those seeking fame will not succeed.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: The time has passed and fortune is declining; old age makes one useless.
Wealth: The goods are old and difficult to sell.
Residence: Desolate and difficult to live in; the marriage will not succeed.
Health: An old illness remains untreated.
Initial Six changing hexagram
!["周易第48卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_48_1.png)
When the first line, Initial Six, changes, it becomes Hexagram 5 of the Zhouyi: Water over Heaven, Waiting. This is a different hexagram, with Heaven below, signifying firmness and vigor, and Water above, signifying danger and entrapment. When firmness encounters danger, steadiness is appropriate; do not act rashly. Observe the time and await change, and whatever one undertakes will surely succeed.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The first line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Initial Six: Well mud is not fit to drink; an old well has no birds. Explanation of the line statement.
Well mud: Mud is contrasted with water; when a well dries, dirty mud appears. It metaphorically refers to being in distress, with one’s talents exhausted and rendered useless.
From the hexagram image, Initial Six is at the bottom of The Well. A Yin line occupies a Yang place, symbolizing yielding softness and mud. It has no correspondence above with Six in the fourth place, and there is no path upward; stagnant accumulation and filth remain undisturbed, so the bottom of the well is all mud and filth, becoming an abandoned old well that has lost its
its usefulness.
The Image Commentary explains this line: “Well mud is not fit to drink” means it is at the bottom; “an old well has no birds” means it has been abandoned by the times. It points out that an old, dry, ruined well is full of filthy mud and cannot provide drinking water because it lies at the very bottom, where sediment continually settles and accumulates. “Even birds do not visit” reflects the desolate fate of being forgotten and abandoned by all things in the world after the times have changed.
Those who obtain this line should consider whether they are unable to change old habits, how long it has been since they read or studied, and how long since they reflected on themselves. A person is like a well: if it is not cleaned in time and its silt removed, it will be discarded.
Initial Six: Well mud is not fit to drink; an old well has no birds.
The Image says: Well mud is not fit to drink because it is below. An old well has no birds because it has been abandoned by the times.
Detailed explanation of the second line, Nine in the second place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Second Nine line
Nine in the second place: In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish; the jar is broken and leaks.
The Image says: Shooting a small fish in the low water of the well means there is no one to join or support you.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the second place: Draw a bow at the well mouth and shoot the small fish in the well. The jar is broken and leaking.
The Image Commentary says: Drawing a bow at the well mouth to shoot a small fish shows that the person has no support and no one to depend on.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who receive this line should hold back carefully to avoid disaster. Officials should withdraw to protect themselves.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Gain a small thing but lose a large one; only an empty reputation remains.
Wealth: Greed for money causes losses; the gain does not compensate for the loss.
Residence: The water is undrinkable; the marriage is unfavorable.
Health: A condition involving leakage below; difficult to cure even with medical care.
Transformation of the Second Nine line
!["周易第48卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_48_2.png)
When the second line, Nine in the second place, changes, it becomes Hexagram 39 of the Zhouyi: Water over Mountain, Obstruction. This is a different hexagram, with Water above and Mountain below. Water means danger and Mountain means stopping. High mountains and deep waters bring difficulties everywhere. In life’s dangers, seeing danger and stopping to preserve oneself is wisdom. Obstruction means difficult travel.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
Nine in the second place: In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish; the jar is broken and leaks. The Image says: Shooting a small fish in the low water of the well means there is no support. Explanation of the line statement.
“Low water of the well” means the low-lying place where water collects in the well. “Shoot at a small fish” means catching fish. “Broken and leaking” means old, damaged, and leaky.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the second place is a Yang line in a yielding place and is therefore out of position. Located in the central line of the lower trigram, it symbolizes a worthy person of both virtue and ability. However, it has no correspondence with Nine in the fifth place and is close to Initial Six. This suggests that although talented and virtuous, one cannot gain a leader’s appreciation and is treated as mediocre and incapable.
The Image Commentary explains this line: “In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish”—there is no one to respond above, making it difficult to bring the water to the surface for people to drink. Thus the well’s function cannot be fulfilled, so the water-holding place becomes merely a place to catch fish. Since the well is incapacitated, the water-drawing tools are also damaged and unusable.
Those who receive this line are in the position of having talent but not being recognized. Although very capable, they have not been noticed by leaders and are employed like ordinary workers. It is also possible that they cannot find work at all and no one hires them. At this time, they must settle for second best, like well water that is not raised to supply all things but merely becomes a fishpond. You may as well begin with small tasks, underuse your great abilities for a time, and then climb upward step by step; this is better than being left idle.
Nine in the second place: In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish; the jar is broken and leaks. The Image says: Shooting a small fish in the low water of the well means there is no support.
The meaning of the classical text is: Shooting at the small fish in the well results in the water jar being struck, broken, and leaking.
The meaning of the Image Commentary is: Shooting at a small fish in the well with a water jar will yield no harvest.
Detailed explanation of the third line, Nine in the third place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Third Nine line
Nine in the third place: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it; my heart is sorrowful. It can be used for drawing water; if the ruler is enlightened, all receive its blessings.
The Image says: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it—this is sorrow at the conduct. Seeking an enlightened ruler brings blessings.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the third place: The ruler sees that the well water is dirty and undrinkable and feels sorrow for us. Once cleaned, it can be drawn and drunk. With an enlightened ruler, everyone receives their benefit.
The Image Commentary says: The well water is dirty and undrinkable; this is an emotional lament at what one sees. Hoping for an enlightened ruler expresses the desire to gain benefit.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who receive this line should keep to their duties and preserve themselves; the wicked may encounter disaster. Officials will find it difficult to meet an enlightened ruler and should seek another opportunity.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Talent without destiny; one must wait two years.
Wealth: Transporting and trading goods improperly; no profit can be made.
Residence: Clean the well and water will be drinkable; success in two years.
Health: The mind and spirit are unsettled; well spring water can cure it.
Transformation of the Third Nine line
!["周易第48卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_48_3.png)
When the third nine changes, it becomes Hexagram 29 of the Zhouyi: Water over Water. This hexagram consists of the same trigram doubled, with Water below and Water above. Water represents danger; with two Waters doubled, danger is added to danger, and obstacles abound. One yang is trapped between two yins. Fortunately, yin is receptive and yang is solid, so sincerity can open a clear path through. Though dangers are many, they can reveal the brilliance of human nature.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
The third line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Nine in the third place: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it; my heart is sorrowful. It can be used for drawing water; when the ruler is enlightened, all receive its blessings.
“Cleaning” means removing dirt and clearing obstructions. “Sorrow” means grief, sympathy, and inability to bear it.
The meaning of this line statement is: The well has been cleaned, yet no one comes to draw water to drink, causing sorrow. It can be used to draw water; an enlightened ruler is a blessing shared by all.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the third place is a Yang line in a firm place, correctly positioned but not central. At the upper end of the lower trigram, it shows an active upward tendency. Yet it clashes with the firm Yang of Nine in the fifth place and has not been put to use. It corresponds correctly with Top Six, who regrets that Nine in the third place has talent but is not recognized.
The Image Commentary analyzes this line: “The well is cleaned but no one drinks”—this is sorrow at the conduct; seeking an “enlightened ruler”—one receives blessings. It points out that although one strives upward and wants to accomplish something for the people, no one accepts the good intention, so passionate good deeds end in a lamentable result. Hoping for “an enlightened ruler” moves directly from the well to human affairs: longing for a sage ruler who thirsts for worthy people, selecting, absorbing, and employing talent as eagerly as drawing water, so everyone can enjoy the resulting benefits.
Those who receive this line may suffer repeated setbacks in job hunting. Although prepared in every respect, they still are not given important responsibilities. Do not lose heart; you still need to wait for the right opportunity.
Nine in the third place: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it; my heart is sorrowful. It can be used for drawing water; when the ruler is enlightened, all receive its blessings.
The Image says: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it—this is sorrow at the conduct. Seeking an enlightened ruler brings blessings.
Detailed explanation of the fourth line, Six in the fourth place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the fourth place line statement
Six in the fourth place: Build the well with bricks; there is no blame.
The Image says: Building the well with bricks brings no blame; this is repairing the well.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the fourth place: Build up the well wall with bricks and stones; the undertaking proceeds smoothly.
The Image Commentary says: Building the well wall with bricks and stones proceeds smoothly; this speaks of repairing the well.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who receive this line should remain content with their duties and preserve themselves; there may be the joy of moving residence. Honest officials should cultivate themselves and establish their lives, and may hope to advance.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Cultivate yourself and establish a good name; advancement may be expected.
Wealth: Organize the old business; there should be profit.
Residence: Repairs are advisable; you still must wait for the right time.
Health: Exercise and physical training.
Six in the fourth place changing hexagram
!["周易第48卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_48_4.png)
When the fourth line, Six in the fourth place, changes, it becomes Hexagram 28 of the Zhouyi: Lake over Wind, Great Excess. This is a different hexagram, with Wind below and Lake above. Lake means joy; Wind means obedience. Water from the Lake floods a boat, resulting in a great mistake. Yin and Yang lines are opposed; Yang is large and Yin small. Action is extraordinary and excessive, with firmness inside and softness outside.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
The fourth line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Six in the fourth place: Build the well wall; there is no blame. Explanation of the line statement.
“Building” means a well wall made of bricks.
The meaning of this line statement is: Reinforcing the well wall with bricks and stones prevents mistakes.
From the hexagram image, Six in the fourth place is a Yin line in a yielding place, correctly positioned. It has already entered the upper trigram and possesses the conditions for bringing things into communication. It supports Nine in the fifth place above and rests on Nine in the third place below. Though its soft nature cannot benefit all things broadly, it has the merit of sheltering and nourishing like a well, and therefore can reach a state without blame.
The Image Commentary explains this line: “Build the well wall; there is no blame”—this is repairing the well. It points out that reinforcing the well wall with bricks and stones shows that the Yin-soft image of Six in the fourth place occupies the central part of The Well, corresponding to the critical position of the well wall, where there must not be the slightest failure. It should therefore be repaired promptly and made firm in order to avoid
disaster.
Detailed explanation of the fifth line, Nine in the fifth place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the fifth place: The well water is clear; the cold spring is fit to drink.
The Image says: The cold spring is fit to drink because it is centered and correct.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fifth place: The water is pure and the spring cold, refreshing and pleasant to the taste, fit for drinking.
The Image Commentary says: The line statement of Nine in the fifth place speaks of pure water and a cold, refreshing spring because Nine in the fifth place occupies the central position of the upper trigram, symbolizing a person who follows the centered and correct Way.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who receive this line will achieve what they seek. Officials with upright conduct will receive their superiors’ praise.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Upright conduct brings the prospect of appointment and advancement.
Wealth: The source of wealth is lasting; profit can be gained.
Residence: Be modest and courteous; share hardship and sweetness together.
Health: Cold outside and heat inside; a cooling remedy can relieve it.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
!["周易第48卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_48_5.png)
When the fifth line, Nine in the fifth place, changes, it becomes Hexagram 46 of the Zhouyi: Earth over Wind, Rise. This is a different hexagram, with Wind below and Earth above. Earth means receptivity and Wind means humility. The earth nourishes trees, which gradually grow taller and become useful timber; this symbolizes a career rising step by step and a great future, hence the name “Rise.”
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
The fifth line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Nine in the fifth place: The well is clear; the cold spring is fit to drink. Explanation of the line statement.
“Clear” means pure and bright. “Cold” means cool and refreshing.
The meaning of this line statement is: The well water is pure and bright, like a sweet, cool spring, and can be drunk.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the fifth place is a Yang line in the ruler’s position, maintaining the center and correctness. It is a virtuous and capable leader who can accomplish great things. The ruler seeks blessings for the people, like a sweet spring available for them to drink.
The Image Commentary praises this line: “The cold spring is fit to drink”—it is centered and correct. It points out that “like a sweet, cool spring available for all under Heaven to drink” is because Nine in the fifth place occupies the most honored position, centrally and appropriately. This symbolizes conduct that is neither biased nor excessive and a pure, selfless heart. Thus it fully embodies the virtue of well water moistening all things and benefiting the public.
Those who receive this line have a favorable opportunity for career development and may pursue work they enjoy. If they are leaders, appointing people of both virtue and ability to assist them will be more conducive to success.
Nine in the fifth place: The well is clear; the cold spring is fit to drink.
The Image says: The cold spring is fit to drink because it is centered and correct.
The meaning of the text is: The well water is clear; the cool spring water is drunk by all.
The meaning of the Image says: The cool spring water is drunk by all because the Fifth Nine occupies the center and is properly placed.
Detailed explanation of the top line of the forty-eighth hexagram of the Zhouyi
Upper Six line statement
Top Six. When the well is completed, do not cover it; there is trustworthiness—great good fortune.
The Image says: Great good fortune at the top means great accomplishment.
Explanation in plain language
Top Six: The pit is wide at the bottom and narrow at the top, extremely well concealed, and may not even need camouflage. It successfully captures a wild animal—great good fortune.
The Image Commentary says: The line statement speaks of great good fortune because the Top Six occupies the foremost position in the hexagram, showing that the person rises to a high rank and achieves great success.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Good fortune: Those who receive this line will find plans proceeding smoothly and finances ample. Officials will have high merit and virtue and may be promoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Merit and virtue are recognized in the world and greatly esteemed.
Finances: Benefits gather and can become both substantial and lasting.
Household: Good deeds bring prosperity to the family; the two families form a good union.
Health: Recovery is possible today.
Upper Six changing hexagram
!["周易第48卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_48_6.png)
When the Top Six changes, it becomes hexagram 57 of the Zhouyi: Xun is Wind. This hexagram consists of the same trigram doubled—Xun below and Xun above. Xun is wind; two winds layered together create a long, unceasing wind that penetrates every opening. Xun also signifies yielding and an attitude and conduct of humility, so nothing is unfavorable wherever one goes.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
The sixth line of the Well hexagram, line statement: Top Six: When the well is completed, do not cover it; there is trustworthiness, great good fortune. Explanation of the line statement
Shou: to take or collect. Mu: to cover. Fu: trustworthiness.
From the hexagram image, the yielding line at Top Six occupies a yielding place. A yielding line is “one,” symbolizing an uncovered well mouth, with no lid placed over it. Top Six is properly placed and is close to the Fifth Nine, helping the Fifth Nine accept talented people and treating them with sincerity. A wise ruler and worthy scholars share the same purpose and draw close to one another; naturally, this is “great good fortune.”
The Image explains this line as follows: “Great good fortune” at the top means great accomplishment. It points out that the auspicious situation appears at the highest position of the Well hexagram because the upper and lower parts respond to each other and, by working with one heart, can draw the water up from the well. Afterward, the well mouth is not sealed tightly; with continued sincerity, it keeps providing people with convenient access to drinking water. The merit is immeasurable, and great good fortune is certain to arrive.
If you receive this line, it means that something you have worked on for a long time has reached the time of harvest. Do not give up, and especially do not stop halfway; greater accomplishment awaits you. Remember: “Do not put a lid on the well”; let others share in your achievements.
Top Six: When the well is completed, do not cover it; there is trustworthiness, no good fortune.
The Image says: Great good fortune at the top means great accomplishment.
The meaning of the text is: Once the well mouth is built, it is left uncovered; with sincerity, there is great good fortune.
The meaning of the Image says: Great good fortune in the upper position means that the work is fully accomplished.
Initial Six line statement
Initial Six: Well mud is not fit to drink; an old well has no birds.
The Image says: Well mud is not fit to drink because it is below. An old well has no birds because it has been abandoned by the times.
Explanation in plain language
Initial Six: The well water is muddy and undrinkable. The collapsed pit can no longer hold wild animals.
The Image Commentary says: The well water is muddy and undrinkable because earth has fallen into it. The collapsed pit can no longer hold wild animals, meaning that people have abandoned this pit and no longer use it.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who receive this line will encounter obstruction in their plans. Officials will be relegated to idle posts; those seeking fame will not succeed.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: The time has passed and fortune is declining; old age makes one useless.
Wealth: The goods are old and difficult to sell.
Residence: Desolate and difficult to live in; the marriage will not succeed.
Health: An old illness remains untreated.
Initial Six changing hexagram
When the first line, Initial Six, changes, it becomes Hexagram 5 of the Zhouyi: Water over Heaven, Waiting. This is a different hexagram, with Heaven below, signifying firmness and vigor, and Water above, signifying danger and entrapment. When firmness encounters danger, steadiness is appropriate; do not act rashly. Observe the time and await change, and whatever one undertakes will surely succeed.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The first line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Initial Six: Well mud is not fit to drink; an old well has no birds. Explanation of the line statement.
Well mud: Mud is contrasted with water; when a well dries, dirty mud appears. It metaphorically refers to being in distress, with one’s talents exhausted and rendered useless.
From the hexagram image, Initial Six is at the bottom of The Well. A Yin line occupies a Yang place, symbolizing yielding softness and mud. It has no correspondence above with Six in the fourth place, and there is no path upward; stagnant accumulation and filth remain undisturbed, so the bottom of the well is all mud and filth, becoming an abandoned old well that has lost its
its usefulness.
The Image Commentary explains this line: “Well mud is not fit to drink” means it is at the bottom; “an old well has no birds” means it has been abandoned by the times. It points out that an old, dry, ruined well is full of filthy mud and cannot provide drinking water because it lies at the very bottom, where sediment continually settles and accumulates. “Even birds do not visit” reflects the desolate fate of being forgotten and abandoned by all things in the world after the times have changed.
Those who obtain this line should consider whether they are unable to change old habits, how long it has been since they read or studied, and how long since they reflected on themselves. A person is like a well: if it is not cleaned in time and its silt removed, it will be discarded.
Initial Six: Well mud is not fit to drink; an old well has no birds.
The Image says: Well mud is not fit to drink because it is below. An old well has no birds because it has been abandoned by the times.
Detailed explanation of the second line, Nine in the second place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Second Nine line
Nine in the second place: In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish; the jar is broken and leaks.
The Image says: Shooting a small fish in the low water of the well means there is no one to join or support you.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the second place: Draw a bow at the well mouth and shoot the small fish in the well. The jar is broken and leaking.
The Image Commentary says: Drawing a bow at the well mouth to shoot a small fish shows that the person has no support and no one to depend on.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who receive this line should hold back carefully to avoid disaster. Officials should withdraw to protect themselves.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Gain a small thing but lose a large one; only an empty reputation remains.
Wealth: Greed for money causes losses; the gain does not compensate for the loss.
Residence: The water is undrinkable; the marriage is unfavorable.
Health: A condition involving leakage below; difficult to cure even with medical care.
Transformation of the Second Nine line
When the second line, Nine in the second place, changes, it becomes Hexagram 39 of the Zhouyi: Water over Mountain, Obstruction. This is a different hexagram, with Water above and Mountain below. Water means danger and Mountain means stopping. High mountains and deep waters bring difficulties everywhere. In life’s dangers, seeing danger and stopping to preserve oneself is wisdom. Obstruction means difficult travel.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
Nine in the second place: In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish; the jar is broken and leaks. The Image says: Shooting a small fish in the low water of the well means there is no support. Explanation of the line statement.
“Low water of the well” means the low-lying place where water collects in the well. “Shoot at a small fish” means catching fish. “Broken and leaking” means old, damaged, and leaky.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the second place is a Yang line in a yielding place and is therefore out of position. Located in the central line of the lower trigram, it symbolizes a worthy person of both virtue and ability. However, it has no correspondence with Nine in the fifth place and is close to Initial Six. This suggests that although talented and virtuous, one cannot gain a leader’s appreciation and is treated as mediocre and incapable.
The Image Commentary explains this line: “In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish”—there is no one to respond above, making it difficult to bring the water to the surface for people to drink. Thus the well’s function cannot be fulfilled, so the water-holding place becomes merely a place to catch fish. Since the well is incapacitated, the water-drawing tools are also damaged and unusable.
Those who receive this line are in the position of having talent but not being recognized. Although very capable, they have not been noticed by leaders and are employed like ordinary workers. It is also possible that they cannot find work at all and no one hires them. At this time, they must settle for second best, like well water that is not raised to supply all things but merely becomes a fishpond. You may as well begin with small tasks, underuse your great abilities for a time, and then climb upward step by step; this is better than being left idle.
Nine in the second place: In the low water of the well, shoot at a small fish; the jar is broken and leaks. The Image says: Shooting a small fish in the low water of the well means there is no support.
The meaning of the classical text is: Shooting at the small fish in the well results in the water jar being struck, broken, and leaking.
The meaning of the Image Commentary is: Shooting at a small fish in the well with a water jar will yield no harvest.
Detailed explanation of the third line, Nine in the third place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Third Nine line
Nine in the third place: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it; my heart is sorrowful. It can be used for drawing water; if the ruler is enlightened, all receive its blessings.
The Image says: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it—this is sorrow at the conduct. Seeking an enlightened ruler brings blessings.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the third place: The ruler sees that the well water is dirty and undrinkable and feels sorrow for us. Once cleaned, it can be drawn and drunk. With an enlightened ruler, everyone receives their benefit.
The Image Commentary says: The well water is dirty and undrinkable; this is an emotional lament at what one sees. Hoping for an enlightened ruler expresses the desire to gain benefit.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who receive this line should keep to their duties and preserve themselves; the wicked may encounter disaster. Officials will find it difficult to meet an enlightened ruler and should seek another opportunity.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Talent without destiny; one must wait two years.
Wealth: Transporting and trading goods improperly; no profit can be made.
Residence: Clean the well and water will be drinkable; success in two years.
Health: The mind and spirit are unsettled; well spring water can cure it.
Transformation of the Third Nine line
When the third nine changes, it becomes Hexagram 29 of the Zhouyi: Water over Water. This hexagram consists of the same trigram doubled, with Water below and Water above. Water represents danger; with two Waters doubled, danger is added to danger, and obstacles abound. One yang is trapped between two yins. Fortunately, yin is receptive and yang is solid, so sincerity can open a clear path through. Though dangers are many, they can reveal the brilliance of human nature.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
The third line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Nine in the third place: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it; my heart is sorrowful. It can be used for drawing water; when the ruler is enlightened, all receive its blessings.
“Cleaning” means removing dirt and clearing obstructions. “Sorrow” means grief, sympathy, and inability to bear it.
The meaning of this line statement is: The well has been cleaned, yet no one comes to draw water to drink, causing sorrow. It can be used to draw water; an enlightened ruler is a blessing shared by all.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the third place is a Yang line in a firm place, correctly positioned but not central. At the upper end of the lower trigram, it shows an active upward tendency. Yet it clashes with the firm Yang of Nine in the fifth place and has not been put to use. It corresponds correctly with Top Six, who regrets that Nine in the third place has talent but is not recognized.
The Image Commentary analyzes this line: “The well is cleaned but no one drinks”—this is sorrow at the conduct; seeking an “enlightened ruler”—one receives blessings. It points out that although one strives upward and wants to accomplish something for the people, no one accepts the good intention, so passionate good deeds end in a lamentable result. Hoping for “an enlightened ruler” moves directly from the well to human affairs: longing for a sage ruler who thirsts for worthy people, selecting, absorbing, and employing talent as eagerly as drawing water, so everyone can enjoy the resulting benefits.
Those who receive this line may suffer repeated setbacks in job hunting. Although prepared in every respect, they still are not given important responsibilities. Do not lose heart; you still need to wait for the right opportunity.
Nine in the third place: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it; my heart is sorrowful. It can be used for drawing water; when the ruler is enlightened, all receive its blessings.
The Image says: The well is cleaned but no one drinks from it—this is sorrow at the conduct. Seeking an enlightened ruler brings blessings.
Detailed explanation of the fourth line, Six in the fourth place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the fourth place line statement
Six in the fourth place: Build the well with bricks; there is no blame.
The Image says: Building the well with bricks brings no blame; this is repairing the well.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the fourth place: Build up the well wall with bricks and stones; the undertaking proceeds smoothly.
The Image Commentary says: Building the well wall with bricks and stones proceeds smoothly; this speaks of repairing the well.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who receive this line should remain content with their duties and preserve themselves; there may be the joy of moving residence. Honest officials should cultivate themselves and establish their lives, and may hope to advance.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Cultivate yourself and establish a good name; advancement may be expected.
Wealth: Organize the old business; there should be profit.
Residence: Repairs are advisable; you still must wait for the right time.
Health: Exercise and physical training.
Six in the fourth place changing hexagram
When the fourth line, Six in the fourth place, changes, it becomes Hexagram 28 of the Zhouyi: Lake over Wind, Great Excess. This is a different hexagram, with Wind below and Lake above. Lake means joy; Wind means obedience. Water from the Lake floods a boat, resulting in a great mistake. Yin and Yang lines are opposed; Yang is large and Yin small. Action is extraordinary and excessive, with firmness inside and softness outside.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
The fourth line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Six in the fourth place: Build the well wall; there is no blame. Explanation of the line statement.
“Building” means a well wall made of bricks.
The meaning of this line statement is: Reinforcing the well wall with bricks and stones prevents mistakes.
From the hexagram image, Six in the fourth place is a Yin line in a yielding place, correctly positioned. It has already entered the upper trigram and possesses the conditions for bringing things into communication. It supports Nine in the fifth place above and rests on Nine in the third place below. Though its soft nature cannot benefit all things broadly, it has the merit of sheltering and nourishing like a well, and therefore can reach a state without blame.
The Image Commentary explains this line: “Build the well wall; there is no blame”—this is repairing the well. It points out that reinforcing the well wall with bricks and stones shows that the Yin-soft image of Six in the fourth place occupies the central part of The Well, corresponding to the critical position of the well wall, where there must not be the slightest failure. It should therefore be repaired promptly and made firm in order to avoid
disaster.
Detailed explanation of the fifth line, Nine in the fifth place, of the forty-eighth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the fifth place: The well water is clear; the cold spring is fit to drink.
The Image says: The cold spring is fit to drink because it is centered and correct.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fifth place: The water is pure and the spring cold, refreshing and pleasant to the taste, fit for drinking.
The Image Commentary says: The line statement of Nine in the fifth place speaks of pure water and a cold, refreshing spring because Nine in the fifth place occupies the central position of the upper trigram, symbolizing a person who follows the centered and correct Way.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who receive this line will achieve what they seek. Officials with upright conduct will receive their superiors’ praise.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Upright conduct brings the prospect of appointment and advancement.
Wealth: The source of wealth is lasting; profit can be gained.
Residence: Be modest and courteous; share hardship and sweetness together.
Health: Cold outside and heat inside; a cooling remedy can relieve it.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
When the fifth line, Nine in the fifth place, changes, it becomes Hexagram 46 of the Zhouyi: Earth over Wind, Rise. This is a different hexagram, with Wind below and Earth above. Earth means receptivity and Wind means humility. The earth nourishes trees, which gradually grow taller and become useful timber; this symbolizes a career rising step by step and a great future, hence the name “Rise.”
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
The fifth line of Hexagram The Well, line statement: Nine in the fifth place: The well is clear; the cold spring is fit to drink. Explanation of the line statement.
“Clear” means pure and bright. “Cold” means cool and refreshing.
The meaning of this line statement is: The well water is pure and bright, like a sweet, cool spring, and can be drunk.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the fifth place is a Yang line in the ruler’s position, maintaining the center and correctness. It is a virtuous and capable leader who can accomplish great things. The ruler seeks blessings for the people, like a sweet spring available for them to drink.
The Image Commentary praises this line: “The cold spring is fit to drink”—it is centered and correct. It points out that “like a sweet, cool spring available for all under Heaven to drink” is because Nine in the fifth place occupies the most honored position, centrally and appropriately. This symbolizes conduct that is neither biased nor excessive and a pure, selfless heart. Thus it fully embodies the virtue of well water moistening all things and benefiting the public.
Those who receive this line have a favorable opportunity for career development and may pursue work they enjoy. If they are leaders, appointing people of both virtue and ability to assist them will be more conducive to success.
Nine in the fifth place: The well is clear; the cold spring is fit to drink.
The Image says: The cold spring is fit to drink because it is centered and correct.
The meaning of the text is: The well water is clear; the cool spring water is drunk by all.
The meaning of the Image says: The cool spring water is drunk by all because the Fifth Nine occupies the center and is properly placed.
Detailed explanation of the top line of the forty-eighth hexagram of the Zhouyi
Upper Six line statement
Top Six. When the well is completed, do not cover it; there is trustworthiness—great good fortune.
The Image says: Great good fortune at the top means great accomplishment.
Explanation in plain language
Top Six: The pit is wide at the bottom and narrow at the top, extremely well concealed, and may not even need camouflage. It successfully captures a wild animal—great good fortune.
The Image Commentary says: The line statement speaks of great good fortune because the Top Six occupies the foremost position in the hexagram, showing that the person rises to a high rank and achieves great success.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Good fortune: Those who receive this line will find plans proceeding smoothly and finances ample. Officials will have high merit and virtue and may be promoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Merit and virtue are recognized in the world and greatly esteemed.
Finances: Benefits gather and can become both substantial and lasting.
Household: Good deeds bring prosperity to the family; the two families form a good union.
Health: Recovery is possible today.
Upper Six changing hexagram
When the Top Six changes, it becomes hexagram 57 of the Zhouyi: Xun is Wind. This hexagram consists of the same trigram doubled—Xun below and Xun above. Xun is wind; two winds layered together create a long, unceasing wind that penetrates every opening. Xun also signifies yielding and an attitude and conduct of humility, so nothing is unfavorable wherever one goes.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
The sixth line of the Well hexagram, line statement: Top Six: When the well is completed, do not cover it; there is trustworthiness, great good fortune. Explanation of the line statement
Shou: to take or collect. Mu: to cover. Fu: trustworthiness.
From the hexagram image, the yielding line at Top Six occupies a yielding place. A yielding line is “one,” symbolizing an uncovered well mouth, with no lid placed over it. Top Six is properly placed and is close to the Fifth Nine, helping the Fifth Nine accept talented people and treating them with sincerity. A wise ruler and worthy scholars share the same purpose and draw close to one another; naturally, this is “great good fortune.”
The Image explains this line as follows: “Great good fortune” at the top means great accomplishment. It points out that the auspicious situation appears at the highest position of the Well hexagram because the upper and lower parts respond to each other and, by working with one heart, can draw the water up from the well. Afterward, the well mouth is not sealed tightly; with continued sincerity, it keeps providing people with convenient access to drinking water. The merit is immeasurable, and great good fortune is certain to arrive.
If you receive this line, it means that something you have worked on for a long time has reached the time of harvest. Do not give up, and especially do not stop halfway; greater accomplishment awaits you. Remember: “Do not put a lid on the well”; let others share in your achievements.
Top Six: When the well is completed, do not cover it; there is trustworthiness, no good fortune.
The Image says: Great good fortune at the top means great accomplishment.
The meaning of the text is: Once the well mouth is built, it is left uncovered; with sincerity, there is great good fortune.
The meaning of the Image says: Great good fortune in the upper position means that the work is fully accomplished.