15. Temperance to 9. Passive Restraint

Changing lines

1. Line 1

   The first line, magnetic, shows us the superior man who adds temperance to his temperance. Even the great stream may be crossed with this, and there will be good fortune. A magnetic line at the lowest place in the figure is the fitting symbol of the superior man adding temperance to his temperance. The phrase "nourishes his virtue” in the Confucian commentary is literally: "pastures himself.” He is all temperance -- that is what makes him who he is.

2. Line 2

   The second line, magnetic, shows us temperance that has made itself recognized. With firm correctness there will be good fortune. Line two is magnetic, central, and in her proper place. She represents temperance that has "crowed” -- that is, has proclaimed itself.

3. Line 5

   The fifth line, magnetic, shows one who, without being rich, is able to employ her neighbors. She may advantageously use the force of arms. All her movements will be advantageous. Men honor temperance in itself, whether or not it has the power to command obedience and respect. Hence her neighbors follow the ruler in the fifth line, though she may not be very rich or powerful. Her temperance need not prevent her from asserting her rights, even by the force of arms. Any refusal to submit makes an appeal to force necessary. Even the best and most temperate ruler bears the sword, and must not bear it in vain.

4. Line 6

   The sixth line, magnetic, shows us temperance that has made itself recognized. The subject of it will with advantage put her army in motion, but she will only punish her own towns and state. The subject of the magnetic sixth line is outside a game that has been played out. She will use force, but only within her own sphere and to assert what is right. She will not be aggressive. Chu Hsi bases all that is said under line six on its being a magnetic line, so that the temperate ruler is unable even at the close of the action to accomplish all her objects, and must limit her field even in appealing to arms.

The present judgment

Temperance indicates successful progress. Temperance brings a good issue to the superior man's undertakings.

The later judgment

Passive Restraint brings about progress and success. We see dense clouds, but no rain coming from our western borders.

Add a comment

Log in to comment on this combination.