I Ching hexagram

48. The Well

Jǐng

Water over Wind

Also called Welling, Potentialities Fulfilled, The Source, The Deep Psyche, "A resurrection or transformation. Generations coming and going and the continuance of life and development." -- D.F. Hook

Image for hexagram 48, The Well

Hexagram 48, The Well (井 Jǐng) is formed by Water over Wind. It is also known as Welling, Potentialities Fulfilled, The Source, The Deep Psyche, "A resurrection or transformation. Generations coming and going and the continuance of life and development." -- D.F. Hook.

Legge

Read as

The judgment

Legge

改邑不改井,无喪无得,往來井井。汔至,亦未繘井,羸其瓶,凶。

Although a town site may be altered, The Well remains the same. Its water level neither disappears nor receives any great increase, and the people can draw from it freely. Misfortune ensues if the rope breaks or the bucket is broken before it reaches the water.

The six lines

line 1 is at the bottom

  1. Line 1Yin

    井泥不食,舊井无禽。

    You depend too heavily on your own views and insights, leaving you with little to share that could benefit others. Without engaging with those around you, you risk fading into obscurity.

  2. Line 2Yang

    井谷射鮒,瓮敝漏。

    If you're not using your skills in a meaningful way, you may become overlooked. When you're not encouraged or challenged by peers, your abilities may fade away, making it hard to fulfill your role when it's most crucial.

  3. Line 3Yang

    井渫不食,為我心惻,可用汲,王明,並受其福。

    You might be missing out on a chance that's right in front of you, or others might not see your talents. This is unfortunate, as recognizing this opportunity could lead to benefits for both you and those around you.

  4. Line 4Yin

    井甃,无咎。

    It's time to take a step back and reassess your life or goals. By focusing on organizing your own affairs, you'll be better prepared to contribute meaningfully in the future.

  5. Line 5Yang

    井冽,寒泉食。

    You have immense potential for wisdom and insight, marking you as an exceptional leader. However, it's important to apply these gifts to your everyday life to continue growing.

  6. Line 6Yin

    井收勿幕,有孚元吉。

    You are now in a position to offer others valuable and reliable guidance, leading to great fulfillment. Expect to experience significant good fortune in your life.

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 48 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.

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