Hexagram 12 · ䷋
Standstill is a time when what is base blocks what is noble. The noble person cannot rely on ordinary perseverance, because the larger current is moving the wro...
Judgment
Standstill is a time when what is base blocks what is noble. The noble person cannot rely on ordinary perseverance, because the larger current is moving the wrong way.
Image
Because the higher and lower no longer connect, the noble person protects inner worth, avoids display, and does not seek honor through salary or position.
Lines
At the beginning of standstill, the worthy still remain connected with one another. Holding firm is still favorable. What helps the petty person does not help the noble person. In...
Obstruction of those unfit for human order. It does not further the perseverance of the noble person. The great departs, the small comes.
Standstill is a time when what is base blocks what is noble. The noble person cannot rely on ordinary perseverance, because the larger current is moving the wrong way.
When heaven and earth fail to unite, they are obstructed. The small person flourishes while the noble person withdraws. This is the time of obstruction.
When heaven and earth cease to communicate, life stagnates. The petty grows inside the structure while the noble withdraws from outward power.
Heaven and earth do not unite—the image of Obstruction. The noble person safeguards their virtue and restrict their expenses.
Because the higher and lower no longer connect, the noble person protects inner worth, avoids display, and does not seek honor through salary or position.
When ribbon grass is pulled up, the sod comes with it. Each according to its kind. Perseverance brings good fortune and success.
At the beginning of standstill, the worthy still remain connected with one another. Holding firm is still favorable.
Small Image
When grass is pulled, the sod comes with it: the way of the worthy is joined.
The worthy still remain linked even in adverse times.
They bear and endure. For the petty person, this means good fortune; for the noble person, obstruction. Great people can still move through it.
What helps the petty person does not help the noble person. In blocked times, the noble must endure without losing direction.
Small Image
The noble person is obstructed, yet still opens a way.
The noble must know how to endure obstruction without becoming part of it.
They bear shame.
To remain in obstruction without shame is impossible; shame must be acknowledged.
Small Image
Bearing shame means the position is not fitting.
Shame is part of blocked conditions when one is misplaced.
He who acts at the ruler's command remains without blame. Those of like mind share the blessing.
If one receives a rightful charge and acts accordingly, blame can be avoided even in blocked times.
Small Image
Acting by command means the will is carried out.
Right action under rightful command still carries force.
Obstruction comes to an end. First obstructed, then joyful.
Standstill does not last forever. When it breaks, joy returns.
Small Image
When obstruction ends, one should not remain in it.
A blocked time can end abruptly.
The obstruction is overturned. First obstructed, then joyful.
At the highest point, the blockage overturns completely. What was shut opens again.
Small Image
The obstruction overturned means its end has truly come.
At the limit, reversal becomes possible again.
What does P'i / Standstill mean in the I Ching?
Standstill is a time when what is base blocks what is noble. The noble person cannot rely on ordinary perseverance, because the larger current is moving the wro...
How should I study Hexagram 12 on this page?
Start with the judgment and image, then read the line statements in sequence. At the beginning of standstill, the worthy still remain connected with one another. Holding firm is still favorable. What helps the petty person does not help the noble person. In...
How can this hexagram be applied in a modern reading?
When heaven and earth cease to communicate, life stagnates. The petty grows inside the structure while the noble withdraws from outward power.
Primary text: Zhouyi / I Ching, including the Judgment, Image, line texts, and related commentaries.
Translation basis: public-domain and modern study references, with AI used only as a learning aid.