Above; Dangerous deep water
Below; Heaven, the creative

Water is seen in the heavens as clouds. But clouds, though they give promise of rain, also indicate that one must wait for that promise to be fulfilled. The Superior Man bides his time. Waiting with sincerity there will follow brilliant success. Perseverance brings great good fortune. It is advantageous to cross the great water at the right time. Patience, strength, and avoiding rash action overcomes difficulty.
The dangerous deep lies ahead. He must show patience. A journey, but not necessarily across water will be rewarding at this time.
Clouds rise up to heaven, representing patient anticipation. The Superior Man accordingly spends the time in eating and drinking, satisfying himself and remaining cheerful.

Line 1

He waits at the edge of the meadow and furthers his plans by remaining still. No reproach.

Danger is still far off. The prudent man does not take cover, but he does not make himself vulnerable by advancing into the open. When difficulty appears in the distance it is best not to go out to meet it, but he stays alert and lets it come to him.

Line 2

He waits at the sandy bank of the mountain stream. There are rumours of scandal, but in the end good fortune.

The sand is soft and does not afford good footing. Danger shows itself only gossip and whispers. Steadfast calmness in the face of danger will bring success at last.

Line 3

He waits in the mud. Expecting the arrival of the enemy.

The flood waters are very near and the ground under foot is slippery and treacherous. It is not a good place to meet an enemy. The danger must be faced with as much preparation as possible. He is exposed and vulnerable. Only exceptional caution prevents harm.

Line 4

He waits standing in blood, but he will escape the pit.

Disaster threatens. It is now a matter of life and death. There is no going forward. There is no going back. One waits with fortitude and brave composure for fate to take its course. This is the only way to escape the pit. He goes with the flow of events.

Line 5

He waits at the table. Perseverance brings good fortune.

This is the eye of the storm. More to come. The wise man employs the time to regain his strength. Even in times of intense difficulty there are pauses. The wise man does not waste these times in needless worry and fear, but uses them wisely to regain strength and focus.

Line 6

He falls into the pit. Three unexpected guests arrive. Receive them with respect and all will be well.

All seems lost. All the restraint, all the husbanding of resources and building of strength seems of no avail. In the deepest despair help comes from an unexpected source. At first it may not be recognizable for what it is, but the wise man will welcome it and accept the assistance that rescues him.

© 1979 Neil Powell

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