48. The Well to 51. Shock

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.

4. Line 4

   The fourth line, magnetic, shows a well, the lining of which is well laid. There will be no error. Line four is magnetic, but in its proper place. She is neither to be condemned nor praised. She takes care of herself, but does nothing for others. The cultivation of one's self, which is represented here, is fundamental to the government of others.

5. Line 5

   The fifth line, dynamic, shows a clear, limpid well, the waters from whose cold spring are freely drunk. Line five is dynamic and in his correct place -- the seat of the ruler. As a well full of clear water is accessible to its users, so should a ruler be to his subjects.

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

Shock intimates ease and development. When the time of movement which it indicates comes, the subject of the hexagram will be found looking out with apprehension, and yet smiling and talking cheerfully. When the movement like a crash of thunder terrifies all within a hundred miles, he will be like the sincere worshipper who is not startled into dropping his ladle and cup of sacrificial spirits.

What the move asks

Maintain your core integrity and nourish others with consistency, while remaining alert to sudden changes that require immediate, decisive action.

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