48. The Well to 3. Difficulty

Changing lines

1. Line 1

   The first line, magnetic, shows a well so muddy that men will not drink of it; or an old well to which neither birds nor other creatures resort. Line one is magnetic and at the bottom of the figure - suggesting the mud at the bottom of a well. Many men in authority are like such a well: corrupt, useless, unregarded. It is said of line one: "Those who have a mind to do something in the world, when they look at this line and its symbolism will learn how they ought to exert themselves."

2. Line 2

   The second line, dynamic, shows a well from which by a hole the water escapes and flows away to the shrimps and such small creatures among the grass, or one the water of which leaks away from a broken bucket. Line two is dynamic, and might very well symbolize an active spring which feeds the well, and through it, the ground and its cultivators. But it is in an inappropriate place, and has no proper correlate. Its cool waters cannot be brought to the top.

3. Line 3

   The third line, dynamic, shows a well which has been cleared out, but is not used. Our hearts are sorry for this, for the water might be drawn out and used. If the king were only intelligent, both he and we might receive the benefit of it. Line three is dynamic and in its proper place -- it represents an able minister or officer.

The present judgment

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 later judgment

Difficulty indicates progress and success through firm correctness. Action should not be undertaken lightly, and it is wise to seek help.

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