I Ching hexagram
47. Oppression
困Kùn
Lake over Water
Also called Exhaustion, The Symbol of Repression and Confinement, Adversity, Weariness, Confining, Entangled, Hardship, Depression, Tiresome Restriction, Dried Up, "Actions speak louder than words." -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 47, Oppression (困 Kùn) is formed by Lake over Water. It is also known as Exhaustion, The Symbol of Repression and Confinement, Adversity, Weariness, Confining, Entangled, Hardship, Depression. The judgment is James Legge. The six lines are R.L. Wing — the same texts used in a reading on this site.
The judgment
James Legge
Oppression means that successful progress is still possible. The perseverance of the truly great man brings good fortune without error; but if he relies on words, no one will believe them.
The six lines
R.L. Wing · line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yin
You are in danger of falling into a trap created by an adverse situation. The trap is of your own making and comes about because of discouragement. Discouragement creates a pattern for failure that will continue if not halted now.
- Line 2Yang
An Adversity facing you now comes about from boredom. Indulgences and pleasures may come too easily for you. Try giving yourself to a worthwhile cause. There is redemption in such altruistic actions.
- Line 3Yin
You allow yourself to become oppressed by things that are not oppressive. You put your faith in things that cannot support you. You are unable to see your priorities although they are obvious. This brings misfortune.
- Line 4Yang
Your progress is slowed by your position in the situation. Although your intentions are good, you are diverted from your path by temptations. There is some humiliation, but you will accomplish your aim.
- Line 5Yang
There exists a frustrating lack of information within your milieu. Bureaucracy stands in the way of progress. Those who need help are stranded. All you can do is maintain your composure until things take a promised turn for the better.
- Line 6Yin
Do not allow difficulties in the recent past to create in you attitudes about the future. If you have become cynical or opinionated, you are lost. Improve your attitude, and the situation will follow. Good fortune.
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 47 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings.