I Ching hexagram
15. Temperance
謙Qiān
Earth over Mountain
Also called Modesty, The Symbol of Humility, Moderation, Humbling, Respectful/Humble, Yielding/Retiring. 1. Obtaining this hexagram implies that modesty is needed in our attitude, meaning, to allow ourself to be led without resistance., C.K. Anthony. 2. A Humble or modest person is thought of as having an “empty or unoccupied” mind, meaning a mind without prejudice., Chung Wu. 3. Only superior people who practice Tao know where to stop, disregard what they have and appear to have nothing., T. Cleary.
Hexagram 15, Temperance (謙 Qiān) is formed by Earth over Mountain. It is also known as Modesty, The Symbol of Humility, Moderation, Humbling, Respectful/Humble, Yielding/Retiring. 1. Obtaining this hexagram implies that modesty is needed in our attitude, meaning, to allow ourself to be led without resistance..
Legge
Read as
The judgment
Legge
亨，君子有終。
Temperance indicates successful progress. Temperance brings a good issue to the superior man's undertakings.
The six lines
line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yin
謙謙君子，用涉大川，吉。
If you can pursue your goals quietly and effectively without broadcasting your intentions, you can accomplish significant things. A humble and disciplined approach will minimize resistance.
- Line 2Yin
鳴謙，貞吉。
By practicing careful inner balance, your actions will gain more influence. You will be given new responsibilities, and thoroughness in your efforts will bring good fortune.
- Line 3Yang
勞謙君子，有終吉。
With steadfast dedication and effort, you can achieve recognition and success. However, don’t let this acclaim distract you or put you in a vulnerable position. Continue the perseverance that led to your prominence to earn lasting support and finish your work.
- Line 4Yin
无不利，撝謙。
Once you achieve true balance, it's crucial to maintain it. This means not just appearing moderate but continually fostering equilibrium within yourself and taking responsibility for your role in society.
- Line 5Yin
不富以其鄰，利用侵伐，无不利。
Even with a stable balance, there may be times when decisive action is necessary to reach your goals. This should be done firmly and objectively, without boasting. You will see improvements in your endeavors.
- Line 6Yin
鳴謙，利用行師，征邑國。
Your personal growth isn’t yet complete, and it's time to practice self-discipline. When faced with challenges, avoid blaming others. Taking responsibility for your own path will help you bring order to your surroundings.
When this hexagram changes
These are the moves that have come up most often in readings. Each page keeps the book text.
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 15 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings. The throw uses the odds of three coins: how a reading is cast.