I Ching hexagram
39. Obstruction - Halt
蹇Jiǎn
Water over Mountain
Also called Impasse, Obstruction, The Symbol of Difficulty, Arresting Movement, Trouble, Obstacles, Barrier, Halt, Halting, Limping, Afoot, “Sit Tight, Don’t move” "One is surrounded by an underwater reef and should wait for assistance." -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 39, Obstruction - Halt (蹇 Jiǎn) is formed by Water over Mountain. It is also known as Impasse, Obstruction, The Symbol of Difficulty, Arresting Movement, Trouble, Obstacles, Barrier, Halt.
Legge
Read as
The judgment
Legge
利西南，不利東北；利見大人，貞吉。
During an Impasse advantage is found in the southwest, disadvantage in the northeast. See the great man. Firm correctness brings good fortune.
The six lines
line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yin
往蹇來譽。
If you encounter an obstacle, don't try to force your way through it. Instead, take a step back and wait for the situation to settle. You'll know when it's the right time to act without resistance.
- Line 2Yin
王臣蹇蹇，匪躬之故。
Since you are part of a larger mission, whether you realize it or not, you must confront and overcome obstacles directly. While this may not be the usual approach in everyday matters, it's appropriate for significant causes. You will not face blame for this.
- Line 3Yang
往蹇來反。
If you divert your focus to tackle an external challenge, you risk compromising the safety of those close to you and potentially destabilizing your life. It would be wise to return to your core and rethink your strategy.
- Line 4Yin
往蹇來連。
To successfully address the challenges ahead, you need to rely on someone who can assist you. A collective effort is necessary, trying to handle it solo will likely lead to failure. Hold back and work together.
- Line 5Yang
大蹇朋來。
Even during the toughest struggles, your spirit will draw others to you. This teamwork will help you achieve your goals, and obstacles will start to fade.
- Line 6Yin
往蹇來碩，吉；利見大人。
Although you may think you can ignore the chaos around you and focus on your own matters, that's not possible. You will inevitably become involved in the struggle. Seek guidance from wise sources in this situation, bringing good fortune to everyone involved.
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 39 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.