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Treatise on the Symbolism of the Hexagrams, and of the duke of Kâu's Explanations of the several Lines 1
I. Heaven, in its motion, (gives the idea of) strength. The superior man, in accordance with this, nerves himself to ceaseless activity.
1. 'The dragon lies hid in the deep;--it is not the time for active doing:'--(this appears from) the strong and undivided line's being in the lowest place.
2. 'The dragon appears in the field:'--the diffusion of virtuous influence has been wide.
3. 'Active and vigilant all the day:'--(this refers to) the treading of the (proper) path over and over again.
4. 'He seems to be leaping up, but is still in the deep:'--if he advance, there will be no error.
5. 'The dragon is on the wing in the sky:'--the great man rouses himself to his work.
6. 'The dragon exceeds the proper limits;--there will be occasion for repentance:'--a state of fulness, that is, should not be indulged in long.
7. 'The same NINE (undivided) is used' (in all the places of this hexagram), but the attribute of heaven (thereby denoted) should not (always) take the foremost place.
II. The (capacity and sustaining) power of the earth is what is denoted by Khwăn. The superior man, in accordance with this, with his large virtue supports (men and) things.
1. 'He is treading on hoarfrost;--the strong ice will come (by and by):'--the cold (air) has begun to take form. Allow it to go on quietly according to its nature, and (the hoarfrost) will come to strong ice.
2. The movement indicated by the second six, (divided),is 'from the straight (line) to the square.' '(Its operation), without repeated effort, in every way advantageous,' shows the brilliant result of the way of earth.
3. 'He keeps his excellence tinder restraint, but firmly maintains it:'--at the proper time he will manifest it. 'He may have occasion to engage in the king's service:--great is the glory of his wisdom.
4. 'A sack tied up;--there will be no error:'--this shows how, through carefulness, no injury will be received.
S. 'The Yellow lower-garment;--there will be great good fortune:'--this follows from that ornamental (colour's) being in the right and central place.
6. 'The dragons fight in the wild:--the (onward) course (indicated by Khwăn) is pursued to extremity.
7. '(The lines are all weak and divided, as appears from) the use of the number SIX:--but (those who are thus represented) becoming perpetually correct and firm, there will thereby be a great consummation.
III. (The trigram representing) clouds and (that representing) thunder form Kun. The superior man, in accordance with this, (adjusts his measures of government) as in sorting the threads of the warp and woof.
1. Although 'there is a difficulty in advancing,' the mind (of the subject of the line) is set on doing what is correct. While noble, he humbles himself to the mean, and grandly gains the people.
2. The difficulty (to the subject of) the second six, (divided), arises from, its place over the undivided line below it. 'The union and children after ten years' shows things resuming their regular course.
3. 'One pursues the deer without the (guidance of the) forester:'--(he does so) in (his eagerness to) follow the game. 'The superior man gives up the chase, (knowing that) if he go forward he will regret it:'--he would be reduced to extremity.
4. 'Going forward after such a search (for a helper)' shows intelligence.
5. 'Difficulty is experienced (by the subject of the fifth line) in bestowing his rich favours:'--the extent to which they reach will not yet be conspicuous.
6. 'He weeps tears of blood in streams:'--how can the state (thus emblemed) continue long?
IV. (The trigram representing) a mountain, and beneath it that for a spring issuing forth form Măng. The superior man, in accordance with this, strives to be resolute in his conduct and nourishes his virtue.
1. 'It will be advantageous to use punishment:'--the object being to bring under the influence of correcting law.
2. 'A son able to (sustain the burden of) his family:'--as appears from the reciprocation between this strong line and the weak (fifth line).
3. 'A woman (such as is here represented) should not be taken in marriage:'--her conduct is not agreeable to what is right.
4. 'The regret arising from ignorance bound in chains' is due to the special distance of (the subject of this line) from the solidity (shown in lines 2 and 6).
5. 'The good fortune belonging to the simple lad without experience' comes from his docility going on to humility.
6. 'Advantage will come from warding off injury:'--(the subject of this line) above and (the ignorant) below, all do and are done to in accordance with their nature.
V. (The trigram for) clouds ascending over that
for the sky forms Hsü. The superior man, in accordance with this, eats and drinks, feasts and enjoys himself (as if there were nothing else to employ him).
1. 'He is waiting in the (distant) border:'--he makes no movement to encounter rashly the difficulties (of the situation). 'It will be advantageous for him constantly to maintain (the purpose thus shown), in which case there will be no error:'--he will not fail to pursue that regular course.
2. 'He is waiting on the sand:'--he occupies his position in the centre with a generous forbearance. Though 'he suffer the small injury of being spoken (against),' he will bring things to a good issue.
3. 'He is waiting in the mud:'--calamity is (close at hand, and as it were) in the outer (trigram). 'He himself invites the approach of injury:'--if he be reverent and careful, he will not be worsted.
4. 'He is waiting in (the place of) blood:'--he accommodates himself (to the circumstances of the time), and hearkens to (its requirements).
5. 'The appliances of a feast, and the good fortune through being firm and correct,' are indicated by (the position in) the central and correct place.
6. 'Guests come unurged (to give their help), and if (the subject of the line) receive them respectfully, there will be good fortune in the end:'--though the occupant and the place are not suited to each other, there has been no great failure (in what has been done).
VI. (The trigram representing) heaven and (that representing) water, moving away from each other, form Sung. The superior man, in accordance with this, in the transaction of affairs takes good counsel about his first steps.
1. 'He does not perpetuate the matter about which (the contention is):'--contention should not be prolonged. Although 'he may suffer the small (injury) of being spoken against,' his argument is clear.
2. 'He is unequal to the contention; he retires and keeps concealed, stealthily withdrawing from it:'--for him from his lower place to contend with (the stronger one) above, would be to (invite) calamity, as if he brought it with his hand to himself.
3. 'He confines himself to the support assigned
to him of old:'--(thus) following those above him, he will have good fortune.
4. 'He returns to (the study of Heaven's) ordinances, changes (his wish to contend), and rests in being firm and correct:'--he does not fail (in doing what is right).
5. 'He contends;--and 'with great fortune:--this is shown by his holding the due mean and being in the correct place.
6. 'He receives the robe through his contention:'--but still be is not deserving of respect.
VII. (The trigram representing) the earth and in the midst of it that representing water, form Sze. The superior man, in accordance with this, nourishes and educates the people, and collects (from among them) the multitudes (of the hosts).
1. 'The host goes forth according to the rules (for) such a movement:'--if those rules be not observed, there will be evil.
2. 'He is in the midst of the host, and there will be good fortune:'--he has received the favour of Heaven. 'The king has thrice conveyed to him the orders (of) his favour:'--(the king) cherishes the myriad regions in his heart.
3. 'The host with the possibility of its having many idle leaders:'--great will be its want of success.
4. 'The host is in retreat; but there is no error:'--there has been no failure in the regular course.
5. 'The oldest son leads the host:'--its movements are directed by him in accordance with his position in the centre. 'Younger men idly occupy their positions:'--the employment of such men is improper.
6. 'The great ruler delivers his charges:'--thereby he rightly apportions merit. 'Small men should not be employed:'--they are sure to throw the states into confusion.
VIII. (The trigram representing) the earth, and over it (that representing) water, form Pî. The ancient kings, in accordance with this, established the various states and maintained an affectionate relation to their princes.
1. From 'the seeking union with its object' shown in the first SIX, (divided),there will be other advantages.
2. 'The movement towards union and attachment proceeds from the inward (mind):'--(the party concerned) does not fail in what is proper to himself
3. 'Union is sought with such as ought not to be associated with:'--but will not injury be the result?
4. 'Union is sought (by the party intended here) with one beyond himself, and (in this case) with a worthy object:'--he is following (the ruler) above him.
5. 'The good fortune belonging to the most illustrious instance of seeking union and attachment' appears in the correct and central position (of the fifth line, undivided).
(The king's) neglecting (the animals) confronting him (and then fleeing), and (only) taking those who present themselves as it were obediently, is seen in
[paragraph continues] 'his allowing the escape of those in front of him.' 'That the people of his towns do not warn one another (to prevent such escape),' shows how he, in his high eminence, has made them pursue the due course.
6. 'He seeks union and attachment without taking the first (step to such an end):'--there is no possibility of a (good) issue.
IX. (The trigram representing) the sky, and that representing wind moving above it, form Hsiâo Khû The superior man, in accordance with this, adorns the outward manifestation of his virtue.
1. 'He returns and pursues his own path:'--it is right that there should be good fortune.
2. 'By the attraction (of the subject of the former line) he returns (to its own course),' and is in the central place:--neither will he err in what is due from him.
3. 'Husband and wife look on each other with averted eyes:'--(the subject of line three is like a
husband who) cannot maintain correctly his relations with his wife.
4. 'He is possessed of sincerity; his (ground for) apprehension is dismissed:'--(the subjects of the lines) above agree in aim with him.
5. 'He is possessed of sincerity, and draws others to unite with him:'--he does not use only his own rich resources.
6. 'The rain has fallen and (the onward progress) is stayed:'--the power (denoted in the figure) has accumulated to the full. 'If the superior man prosecute his measures, there will be evil:'--he will find himself obstructed.
X. (The trigram representing) the sky above, and below it (that representing the waters of) a marsh, form Lî. The superior man, in accordance with this, discriminates between high and low, and gives settlement to the aims of the people.
1. 'He treads his accustomed path and goes forward:'--singly and exclusively he carries out his (long-cherished) wishes.
2. 'A quiet and solitary man, to whom, being firm and correct, there will be good fortune:'--holding the due mean, he will not allow himself to be thrown into disorder.
3. 'A one-eyed man (who thinks that he) can see:'--he is not fit to see clearly. 'A lame man (who thinks that he can) tread well:'--one cannot walk along with him. 'The ill fortune of being bitten' arises from the place not being the proper one for him. 'A (mere) bravo acting the part of a great ruler:'--this is owing to his aims being (too) violent.
4. 'He becomes full of apprehensive caution, and in the end there will be good fortune:'--his aim takes effect.
5. 'He treads resolutely; and though he be firm and correct, there is peril:'--this is due to his being in the position that is correct and appropriate to him.
6. 'There will be great good fortune,' and that in the occupancy of the topmost line:--this is great matter for congratulation.
XI. (The trigrams for) heaven and earth in communication together form Thâi. The (sage) sovereign, in harmony with this, fashions and completes (his regulations) after the courses of heaven and earth, and assists the application of the adaptations furnished by them,--in order to benefit the people.
1. 'The good fortune of advance, (as suggested by the emblem of) the grass pulled up,' arises from the will (of the party intended) being set on what is external to himself.
2. 'He bears with the uncultivated, and proves himself acting in accordance with the due mean:'--for (his intelligence is) bright and (his capacity is) great.
3. 'There is no going away so that there shall not be a return' refers to this as the point where the interaction of heaven and earth takes place.
4. 'He comes fluttering (down), not relying on
his own rich resources:'--both he and his neighbours are out of their real (place where they are). 'They have not received warning, but (come) in the sincerity (of their hearts):'--this is what they have desired in the core of their hearts.
5. 'By such a course there is happiness, and there will be great good fortune:'--(the subject of the line) employs the virtue proper to his central position to carry his wishes into effect.
6. 'The city wall returned back into the moat' shows how the (governmental) orders have (long) been in disorder.
XII. (The trigrams of) heaven and earth, not in intercommunication, form Phî. The superior man, in accordance with this, restrains (the manifestation) of) his virtue, and avoids the calamities (that threaten him). There is no opportunity of conferring on him the glory of emolument.
1. 'The good fortune through firm goodness, (suggested by) the pulling up of the grass,' arises from the will (of the parties intended) being bent on (serving) the ruler.
2. 'The great man, comporting himself as the distress and obstruction require, will have success:--'he does not allow himself to be disordered by the herd (of small men).
3. That 'his shame is folded in his breast' is owing to the inappropriateness of his position.
4. 'He acts in accordance with the ordination (of Heaven), and commits no error:'--the purpose of his mind can be carried into effect.
5. The good fortune of the great man' arises from the correctness of his position.
6. 'The distress and obstruction having reached its end, it is overthrown and removed:'--how could it be prolonged?
XIII. (The trigrams for) heaven and fire form Thung Zăn. The superior man, in accordance with this), distinguishes things according to their kinds and classes.
1. '(The representative of) the union of men is just issuing from his gate:'--who will blame him?
2. '(The representative of) the union of men appears in relation with his kindred:'--that is the path to regret.
3. 'He hides his arms in the thick grass:'--because of the strength of his opponent. 'For three years he makes no demonstration:'--how can he do anything?
4. 'He is mounted on his city-wall;' but yielding to the right, 'he does not proceed to make the attack (he contemplated).' (Where it is said),'There will be good fortune,' (that shows how) he feels the strait he is in, and returns to the rule of law.
5. The first action of (the representative of) the union of men (here described) arises from his central position and straightforward character. 'The meeting secured by his great host' intimates that the opponents of it have been overcome.
6. '(The representative of) the union of men appears in the suburbs:'--his object has not yet been attained.
XIV. (The trigram for) heaven and (that of) fire above it form Tâ Yû The superior man, in accordance with this, represses what is evil and gives distinction to what is good, in sympathy with the excellent Heaven-conferred (nature).
1. This first NINE, (undivided),of Tâ Yû shows no approach to what is injurious.
2. 'A large waggon with its load' refers to the (virtue) accumulated (in the subject of the line), so that he will suffer no loss (in the conduct of affairs).
3. 'A feudal prince presents his offerings to the son of Heaven:'--a small man (in such a position) does (himself) harm.
4. 'He keeps his great resources under restraint:'--his wisdom discriminates clearly (what he ought to do).
5. 'His sincerity is reciprocated by all the others:'--his sincerity serves to stir and call out what is in their minds. 'The good fortune springing from a display of proper majesty' shows how they might (otherwise) feel too easy, and make no preparation (to serve him).
6. 'The good fortune attached to the topmost line of Tâ Yû' arises from the help of Heaven.
XV. (The trigram for) the earth and (that of) a mountain in the midst of it form Khien. The superior man, in accordance with this, diminishes what is excessive (in himself), and increases where there is any defect, bringing about an equality, according to the nature of the case, in his treatment (of himself and others).
1. 'The superior man who adds humility to humility' is one who nourishes his (virtue) in lowliness.
2. 'The good fortune consequent on being firm and correct, where the humility has made itself recognised, is owing to the possessor's having (the virtue) in the core of his heart.
3. 'The superior man of (acknowledged) merit, and yet humble:'--the myriads of the people will submit to him.
4. 'One, whose action would be in every way advantageous, stirs up his humility the more:'(but in doing so) he does not act contrary to the (proper) rule.
5. 'He may advantageously use the force of arms:'--correcting, that is, those who do not submit.
6. 'His humility has made itself recognised:'--(but) all his aims have not yet been attained. He may employ the force of arms, (but only) in correcting (his own) towns and state.'
XVI. (The trigrams for) the earth and thunder issuing from it with its crashing noise form Yü. The ancient kings, in accordance with this, composed their music and did honour to virtue, presenting it especially and most grandly to God,
when they associated with Him (at the service) their highest ancestor and their father.
1. 'The (subject of the) first six proclaims his pleasure and satisfaction:'--there will be evil; his wishes have been satisfied to overflowing.
2. '(He sees a thing) without waiting till it has come to pass; with his firm correctness there will be good fortune:'--this is shown by the central and correct position (of the line).
3. 'He looks up (for favours), while he indulges the feeling of satisfaction; there will be occasion for repentance:'--this is intimated by the position not being the appropriate one.
4. 'From him the harmony and satisfaction come; great is the success which he obtains:'--his aims take effect on a grand scale.
5. '(The subject of) the fifth six has a chronic complaint:'--this is shown by his being mounted on the strong (line). 'He still lives on without dying:'--he is in the central position, (and its memories of the past) have not yet perished.
6. 'With darkened mind devoted to the harmony and satisfaction (of the time),' as shown in the topmost (line):--how can one in such a condition continue long?
XVII. (The trigram for the waters of) a marsh and (that for) thunder (hidden) in the midst of it form Sui. The superior man in accordance with this, when it is getting towards dark, enters (his house) and rests.
1. 'He is changing the object of his pursuit:'--but if he follow what is correct, there will be good fortune. 'He goes beyond (his own) gate to find associates:'--he will not fail (in the method he pursues).
2. 'He cleaves to the little boy:'--he cannot be with the two at the same time.
3. 'He cleaves to the man of age and experience:'--by the decision of his will, he abandons (the youth) below.
4. 'He is followed and obtains adherents:'--according to the idea (of the hexagram), this is evil. 'He is sincere in his course:'--showing his intelligence, and leading to achievement.
5. 'He is sincere in fostering what is excellent:'--his position is correct and in the centre.
6. 'The sincerity is firmly held and clung to, as shown in the topmost line:'--(the idea of the hexagram) has reached its extreme development.
XVIII. (The trigram for) a mountain, and below it that for wind, form Kû. The superior man, in accordance with this, (addresses himself to) help the people and nourish his own virtue.
1. 'He deals with the troubles caused by his father:'--he feels that he has entered into the work of his father.
2. 'He deals with the troubles caused by his mother:'--he holds to the course of the due mean.
3. 'He deals with the troubles caused by his father:'--in the end there will be no error.
4. 'He views indulgently the troubles caused by his father:'--if he go forward, he will not succeed.
5. 'He deals with the troubles caused by his father, and obtains praise:'--he is responded to (by the subject of line two) with all his virtue.
6. 'He does not serve either king or feudal lord:'--but his aim may be a model (to others).
XIX (The trigram for) the waters of a marsh and that for the earth above it form Lin. The superior man, in accordance with this, has his purposes of instruction that are inexhaustible, and nourishes and supports the people without limit.
1. 'The good fortune through the firm correctness of (the subject of the first line) advancing in company (with the subject of the second)' is due to his will being set on doing what is right.
2. 'The good fortune and every possible advantage attending the advance (of the subject of the second line), in company (with the subject of the first),' arises from the fact that those (to whom the advance is made) are not yet obedient to the ordinances (of Heaven).
3. 'He (shows himself) well pleased to advance:'--his position is not that appropriate to him. 'If he become anxious, however, about his action,' his error will not be continued.
4. 'The freedom from error consequent on the
advance in the highest mode' is due to the (various) appropriateness of the position.
5. 'What befits the great ruler' means the pursuing the course of the due mean.
6. 'The good fortune consequent on the advance of honesty and generosity' is due to the will (of the subject of the line) being set on the subjects of (the first two lines of) the inner (trigram).
XX. (The trigram representing) the earth, and that for wind moving above it, form Kwan. The ancient kings, in accordance with this, examined the (different) regions (of the kingdom), to see the (ways of the) people, and set forth their instructions.
1. 'The looking of a lad shown by the first six, (divided); indicates the way of the inferior people.
2. 'The firm correctness of a woman, in peeping out from a door' is also a thing to be ashamed of (in a superior man).
3. 'He looks at (the course of his own life, to advance or recede (accordingly):'--he will not err in the path (to be pursued).
4. 'He contemplates the glory of the kingdom:'(thence) arises the wish to be a guest (at court).
5. 'He contemplates his own life(-course):'--he should (for this purpose) contemplate (the condition of) the people.
6. 'He contemplates his own character:'--he cannot even yet let his mind be at rest.
XXI. (The trigrams representing) thunder and lightning form Shih Ho. The ancient kings, in accordance with this, framed their penalties with intelligence, and promulgated their laws.
1. 'His feet are in the stocks, and he is deprived of his toes:'--there is no walking (to do evil).
2. 'He bites through the soft flesh, and (goes on)
to bite off the nose:'--(the subject of the line) is mounted on the strong (first line).
3. 'He meets with what is disagreeable and hurtful:'--his position is not the proper one for him.
4. 'It will be advantageous to him to realise the difficulty of his task and be firm, in which case there will be good fortune:'--his light has not yet been sufficiently displayed.
5. 'Let him be firm and correct, realising the peril (of his position), and there will be no error:'--he will possess every quality appropriate (to his position and task).
6. 'He wears the cangue and is deprived of his ears:'--he hears, but will not understand.
XXII. (The trigram representing) a mountain and that for fire under it form Pî. The superior man, in accordance with this, throws a brilliancy around his various processes of government, but does not dare (in a similar way) to decide cases of criminal litigation.
1. 'He can discard a carriage and walk on foot:'--righteousness requires that he should not ride.
2. 'He adorns his beard:'--he rouses himself to action (only) along with the (subject of the) line above.
3. 'The good fortune consequent on his ever maintaining firm correctness' is due to this,--that to the end no one will insult him.
4. 'The place occupied by the fourth six, (divided),' affords ground for doubt (as to its subject); but '(as the subject of the third pursues) not as a robber, but as intent on a matrimonial alliance,' he will in the end have no grudge against him.
5. 'The good fortune falling to the fifth six, (divided); affords occasion for joy.
6. 'The freedom from error attached to (the subject of) the topmost line, with no ornament but the (simple white),' shows how he has attained his aim.
XXIII. (The trigrams representing) the earth, and (above it) that for a mountain, which adheres to the earth, form Po. Superiors, in accordance with this, seek to strengthen those below them, to secure the peace and stability of their own position.
1. 'He overthrows the couch by injuring its legs:'--thus (he commences) his work of ruin with what is lowest (in the superior man).
2. 'He destroys the couch by injuring its frame:'--(the superior man) has as yet no associates.
3. That 'there will be no error on the part of this one among the overthrowers' arises from the difference between him and the others above and below.
4. 'He has overthrown the couch, and (proceeds to injure) the skin (of him who lies on it):'--calamity is very near at hand.
5. 'He obtains for them the favour that lights on the inmates of the palace:'--in the end there will be no grudge against him.
6. 'The superior man finds himself in a carriage:'--he is carried along by the people. 'The small men (by their course) overthrow their own dwellings:'--they can. never again be of use to them.
XXIV. (The trigram representing) the earth and that for thunder in the midst of it form Fû. The ancient kings, in accordance with this, on the day. of the (winter) solstice, shut the gates of the passes (from one state to another), so that the travelling merchants could not (then) pursue their journeys, nor the princes go on with the inspection of their states.
1. 'Returning (from an error) of no great extent' is the prelude to the cultivation of the person.
2. 'The good fortune attendant on the admirable return (of the subject of the second line)' is due to his condescension to the virtuous (subject of the line) below.
3. Notwithstanding 'the perilous position of him
who has made many returns,' there will be no error through (his aiming after righteousness).
4. 'He moves right in the centre (among those represented by the other divided lines), and yet returns alone:'--his object is to pursue the (proper) path.
5. 'The noble return, giving no ground for repentance,' is due to (the subject of the line) striving to perfect himself in accordance with his central position.
6. 'The evil consequent on being all astray on the subject of returning' is because the course pursued is contrary to the proper course for a ruler.
XXV. The thunder rolls all under the sky, and to (every)thing there is given (its nature), free from all insincerity. The ancient kings, in accordance with this, (made their regulations) in complete accordance with the seasons, thereby nourishing all things.
1. When 'he who is free from insincerity makes any movement,' he will get what he desires.
2. 'He reaps without having ploughed:'--(the thought of) riches to be got had not risen (in his mind).
3. 'The passer-by gets the ox:'--this proves a calamity to the people of the neighbourhood.
4. 'If he can remain firm and correct there will be no error:'--he firmly holds fast (his correctness).
5. 'Medicine in the case of one who is free from insincerity!'--it should not be tried (at all).
6. 'The action (in this case) of one who is free from insincerity' will occasion the calamity arising from action (when the time for it is) exhausted.
XXVI. (The trigram representing) a mountain, and in the midst of it that (representing) heaven, form Tâ Khû. The superior man, in accordance with this, stores largely in his memory the words and deeds of former men, to subserve the accumulation of his virtue.
1. 'He is in a position of peril; it will be advantageous for him to stop his advance:'--he should not rashly expose himself to calamity.
2. '(He is as) a carriage from which the strap under it has been removed:'--being in the central position, he will incur no blame.
3. 'There will be advantage in whatever direction he may advance:'--(the subject of) the topmost line is of the same mind with him.
4. 'The great good fortune indicated by the fourth six, (divided),' shows that there is occasion for joy.
5. 'The good fortune indicated by the fifth six, (divided),' shows that there is occasion for congratulation.
6. 'In command of the firmament of heaven:'--the way is grandly open for movement.
XXVII. (The trigram representing) a mountain and under it that for thunder form Î. The superior man, in accordance with this, (enjoins) watchfulness over our words, and the temperate regulation of our eating and drinking.
1. 'You look at me till your (lower) jaw hangs down:'--(the subject of the line) is thus shown unfit to be thought noble.
2. 'The evil of advance by the subject of the second SIX, (divided),' is owing to his leaving in his movements his proper associates.
3. 'For ten years let him not take any action:'--his course is greatly opposed (to what is right).
4. 'The good fortune attached to looking downwards for (the power to) nourish,' shows how brilliant will be the diffusion (of that power) from (the subject of the line's) superior position.
5. 'The good fortune from abiding in firmness' is due to the docility (of the subject of the line) in following (the subject of the line) above.
6. 'The good fortune, notwithstanding the peril
of his position, of him from whom comes the nourishing,' affords great cause for congratulation.
XXVIII. (The trigram representing) trees hidden beneath that for the waters of a marsh forms Tâ Kwo. The superior man, in accordance with this, stands up alone and has no fear, and keeps retired from the world without regret.
1. 'He places mats of the white mâo grass under things set on the ground:'--he feels his weakness and his being in the lowest place, (and uses extraordinary care).
2. 'An old husband and a young wife:'--such association is extraordinary.
3. 'The evil connected with the beam that is weak' arises from this, that no help can be given (to the condition thus represented).
4. 'The good fortune connected with the beam curving upwards' arises from this, that it does not bend towards what is below.
5. 'A decayed willow produces flowers:'--but how can this secure its long continuance? 'An old
wife and a young husband:'--this also is a thing to be ashamed of.
6. 'Evil follows wading with (extraordinary) boldness (through the stream):'--but (the act) affords no ground for blame.
XXIX. (The representation of) water flowing on continuously forms the repeated Khan. The superior man, in accordance with this, maintains constantly the virtue (of his heart) and (the integrity of) his conduct, and practises the business of instruction.
1. 'In the double defile, he enters a cavern within it:'--he has missed his (proper) way, and there will be evil.
2. 'He will get a little (of the deliverance) that he seeks:'--he will not yet escape from his environed position.
3. 'Whether he comes or goes, he is confronted by a defile:'--he will never (in such circumstances) achieve any success.
4. '(Nothing but) a bottle of spirits and a subsidiary basket of rice:'--(these describe) the meeting at this point of (those who are represented by) the strong and weak lines.
5. 'The water in the defile is not full (so as to flow away):'--(the virtue indicated by) the central situation is not yet (sufficiently) great.
6. 'The sixth line, divided, shows its subject missing his (proper) course:'--'there will be evil for three years.'
XXX. (The trigram for) brightness, repeated, forms Lî. The great man, in accordance with this, cultivates more and more his brilliant (virtue), and diffuses its brightness over the four quarters (of the land).
1. 'The reverent attention directed to his confused steps' is the way by which error is avoided.
2. 'The great good fortune (from the subject of the second line) occupying his place in yellow' is owing to his holding the course of the due mean.
3. 'A position like that of the declining sun:'--how can it continue long?
4. 'How abrupt is the manner of his coming!'--none can bear with him.
5. 'The good fortune attached to the fifth SIX,
divided),' is due to its occupying the place of a king or a prince.
6. 'The king employs him in his punitive expeditions:'--the object is to bring the regions to a correct state.
267:1 Like the Text under each hexagram, what is said under each in this treatise on its symbolism is divided into two portions. The p. 267 first is called 'the Great Symbolism,' and is occupied with the trigrammatic composition of the hexagram, to the statement of which is always subjoined an exhibition of the use which should be, or has been, made of the lesson suggested by the meaning of the whole figure in the administration of affairs, or in self-government. If the treatise be rightly ascribed to Confucius, this practical application of the teaching of the symbols is eminently characteristic of his method in inculcating truth and duty; though we often find it difficult to trace the connexion between his premiss and conclusion. This portion of the treatise will be separated by a double space from what follows,--'the Lesser Symbolism,' in the explanations of the several lines.
268:I Khien is formed by redoubling the trigram of the same name. In the case of other hexagrams of similar formation, the repetition of the trigram is pointed out. That is not done here, according to Kû Hsî, 'because there is but one heaven.' But the motion of heaven is a complete revolution every day, resumed again the next; so moves 'the unwearied sun from day to day,' making it a good symbol of renewed, untiring effort.
269:II Khwăn is formed by redoubling the trigram of the same name and having 'the earth for its symbol.' As in the former hexagram, the repetition is emphatic, not otherwise affecting the meaning of the hexagram. 'As there is but one heaven,' says Kû Hsî, 'so there is but one earth.' The first part of 'the Great Symbolism' appears in Canon McClatchie's version as--'Khwăn is the generative part of earth.' By 'generative part' he probably means 'the productive or prolific faculty.' If he mean anything else, there comes out a conclusion antagonistic to his own view of the 'mythology' of the Yî. The character Shî, which he translates by 'generative part,' is defined in Dr. Williams' dictionary as 'the virility of males.' Such is the special significance of it. If it were so used here, the earth would be masculine.
It is difficult to say exactly what the writer meant by--'The superior man, in accordance with this, and with his large nature, supports (men and) things.' Lin Hsî-yüan (Ming dynasty) says:--'The superior man, in his single person, sustains the burden of all under the sky. The common people depend on him for their rest and enjoyment. Birds and beasts and creeping things, and the tribes of the vegetable kingdom, depend on him for the fulfilment or their destined being. If he be of a narrow mind and cold virtue, how can he help them? Their hope in him would be in vain.'
'The Smaller Symbolism' is sufficiently dealt with in the notes on the Text.
270:III Khan represents water, especially in the form of rain. Here its symbol is a cloud. The whole hexagram seems to place us in the atmosphere of a thunderous sky overhung with thick and gloomy clouds, when we feel oppressed and distressed. This is not a bad emblem of the political state in the mind of the writer. When the thunder has pealed, and the clouds have discharged their p. 271 burden of rain, the atmosphere is cleared, and there is a feeling of relief. But I fail again to discern clearly the connexion between the symbolism and the lesson about the superior man's administration of affairs.
The subject of the first line of the Smaller Symbolism is represented by the undivided line, and therefore is firm and correct. He is noble, but his place is below the divided lines, symbols of the weak and mean (see Appendix IV, i, 1).
Line 2. 'Things resume their regular course:'--the subject is now at liberty to seek a union with the subject of line 5, according to the rules of the symbolism. Lines 1 and 4, 2 and 5, 3 and 6, the corresponding lilies of the trigrams, are correlates.
The subject of line 4 naturally recurs to the correlate in line 1. He is the natural helper in the case, and he has the ability.
272:IV 'The spring here issuing forth' is different from the defile with a stream in it, in the explanation of the Thwan; different moreover from 'rain,' mentioned also as the phenomenon which is the natural symbol of Khan. The presence of water, however, is common to the three. But the water of the spring, or of the stream, would flow away from the hill, and not be stopped by it; as an emblem therefore of the ignorance and inexperience denoted by Măng it is not suitable. Kû Hsî says that 'the water of a spring is sure to move on and gradually advance.' This may serve as a symbol of the general process and progress of education, though it gives no account of the symbolism of the hill. It serves also to explain in part the transition of the writer to the subject of the superior man, and his dealing apparently with himself.
Does line 1 set forth the use of punishment as the dernier resort, undesirable, but possibly unavoidable, to bring men in subjection to law?
The force of line 2 comes out fully in the Thwan.
That a woman such as is represented in line 3 should not be taken in marriage is clear enough; but I do not see the bearing of the illustration on the proper lesson in the hexagram.
Line 3 separates 4 from 2, and 5 separates it from 6. Weak in itself, it is farther removed than any other from the two strong lines in the hexagram, and is represented as 'cribbed' in its ignorance.
The fifth is the most honourable place in the figure, and here is occupied by a weak line. This looks, however, to the occupant of line 2, less honourable than itself, and is marked by the two attributes that are named. Compare what is said on line 2.
A strong line in the topmost place must represent, according to the scheme of the hexagram, one who uses force in the cause of education; but the force is put forth not on the ignorant, but on those who would keep them ignorant, or increase their ignorance. The subject of this line, therefore, acts according to his nature, and the subjects of all the weak lines below are cared for as is best for them.
273:V 'The cloud,' it is said, 'that has risen to the top of the sky, has nothing more to do till it is called on, in the harmony of heaven p. 274 and earth, to discharge its store of rain.' This gives to the writer the idea of waiting; and the superior man is supposed to be taught by this symbolism to enjoy his idle time, while he is waiting for the approach of danger and occasion for action.
'The regular course' of the subject of line 1 seems to be the determination to wait, at a distance from danger, the proper time to act.
The subject of line 2, which is undivided and in the centre, is thereby shown to be possessed of a large and generous forbearance.
The recognition of the circumstances of the time, and hearkening to its requirements, explain, in paragraph 4, 'the retreat from the cavern,' which is not here repeated from the Text. The line being weak and divided, its subject knows his own incompetency, and takes this prudent step.
Kû says that he does not understand what is said under line 6,--that the occupant and the place are not suited to each other, for the yin line being in the sixth, an even place, seems to be where it ought to be. We are only surprised that cases of inconsistency in these explanations are not more numerous.
275:VI The symbolism here is different from that in the Text of the Thwan. We have the visible sky ascending and water or rain descending, which indicate, one hardly sees how, opposition and contention. The lesson as to the course of the superior man is a good one, but might with equal propriety be deduced from many other hexagrams.
Hsiang An-shih (Sung dynasty) says that the first part of paragraph 2 is all to be taken as the language of the duke of Kâu, the characters being varied; the rest is the remark of the writer of this treatise.
It is observed that the returning to (the study of Heaven's) ordinances, and changing the wish to contend, in paragraph 4, are not two things, but only one; 'the ordinances (ming) meaning what is right in principle.' The wish to contend was wrong in principle, and is now abandoned.
'The robe' takes the place of 'the leathern sash' in paragraph 6; but the sash was merely an appendage of the robe.
276:VII 'The Great Symbolism' here is not more satisfactory than in other paragraphs of it which have already come before us. Kû Hsî says:--'As the water is not outside the earth, so soldiers are not outside the people. Therefore if (a ruler) be able to nourish the people, he can get the multitudes (of his hosts).' Is the meaning this,--that originally the people and soldiers are one body; that a portion of the people are taken out from among the mass, as occasion requires, to do the duty of soldiers; and that the nourishment and education of the people is the best way to have good soldiers ready for use on any emergency? Compare the saying of Confucius in Analects XIII, xxx.
What is said on the second line, that the general 'has received the favour of Heaven,' refers of course to the entire confidence reposed in him by the ruler or king, the subject of line 5. In this way Thien here is equal to Thien wang, so frequent in the 'Spring and Autumn,' and meaning--'King by the grace of p. 277 Heaven.' But the great powers given to the general are from the king's wish through him to promote the good of all the nation.
In military operations there must be one ruling will and mind. A divided authority is sure to be a failure. But 'a retreat' is no evidence of failure in a campaign. When advance would lead to disaster, retreat is the regular course to pursue.
Other ways can be found to reward small men. They ought not to be placed in situations where the condition of others will depend on them.
278:VIII 'Water upon the face of the earth' is supposed to be an emblem of close union. Of the mere fact of close union this may be accepted as a fair illustration, and of its completeness. Some other symbolism might set forth better the tendency of parties to union, and their seeking it. What is said about the ancient kings is more pertinent to the meaning of the hexagram than in many other applications in 'the Great Symbolism.' The king appears in it not only as the centre, but as the cause, of union.
'The other advantages' under line 1 refer to all the benefits that will result from sincerity and union, which are in themselves good.
It is hardly possible to make what is said under line 5, on the royal huntings, agree with the account of them given on the same line in the duke of Kâu's text. I suspect that there is some corruption of the text. The two verbs 'neglecting' and 'taking' seem to be used, the one for the other.
279:IX The suitability of the symbolism here is made all to turn on the wind. 'Wind,' says Kû, 'is simply the air, without solid substance; it can restrain, but not for long.' The wind moves in the sky for a time, and then ceases. The process of thought from the symbol to the lesson is not easily traced. Is it meant to say that virtue manifesting itself outwardly--in the carriage and speech--is, however good, but a small matter, admirable in an officer, or even a feudal lord, but that we look for more in a king, the Head of a nation?
Khăng-žze calls attention to the addition to the duke of Kâu's explanation in the notice on line 2, that 'it is in the central place,' adding that this explains how the subject of the line restrains himself, and does not go beyond what is due from him.
Only half of the symbolism in the Text of line 3 is taken up here. Line 1, it is said, is far from line 4, the mauvais sujet of the hexagram, and little affected by it; line 2 is nearer, but, being in the centre, suffers little; line 3 is close on it, and, not being in the centre, comes under its evil influence; while line 6 gives no help.
Line 4 is weak, and in an even place, appropriate to it; and hence its subject is said to 'have sincerity.' Being the first line, moreover, of Sun, the two others take their character from it.
Line 5, being undivided, and occupying the most important place in the figure, according to the value usually attached to the lines, is p. 280 said 'to be rich,' or 'to have rich resources.' With these he unites with the 'subjects' of line 4 to effect their common object.
Under line 6 we are told that the restraint is at its height, and the restrained should keep still for a time. The paragraph is metrical. The paragraphs to lines 1, 2, 3, all rhyme together. So do those to 4, 5; and now under 6, we have a couplet:--
Lo! rain, lo! rest, the power is full!
Good man! hold hard. Obstructions rule.'
281:X 'The sky above and a marsh lying below it is true,' says Khăng-žze, 'in nature and reason; and so should be the rules of propriety on which men tread.' This symbolism is far-fetched; and so is the application of it, if in any way drawn from it. But it is true that the members of a community or nation must keep their several places and duties in order to its being in a state of good order.
For lines 1, 2, 3, and 4, see notes on the Text.
If we might translate the conclusion of what is said on line 5, by--'in the position that is correctly appropriate to him,' the meaning would he more clear, though still the assumption which I have pointed out on the Text would underlie the statement; and as evidently as there, what is said under line 6 is but a truism.
282:XI It is difficult to translate the application of 'the Great Symbolism' here, so that it shall be intelligible to a reader. Khăng-žze says:--'A ruler should frame his laws; and regulations so that the people may avail themselves of the seasons of heaven, and of the advantages afforded by the earth, assisting their transforming and nourishing services, and completing their abundant and admirable benefits. Thus the breath of spring, calling forth all vegetable life, gives the law for sowing and planting; the breath of autumn, completing and solidifying all things, gives the law for ingathering and storing,' &c.
The subject of line 1 has 'his will on what is external to himself:'--he is bent on going forward.
Kû Hsî explains what is said on paragraph 4, that the upper lines 'are out of their real place where they are,' or, literally, 'have lost their substantiality,' by the remark that 'their proper place, as being weak lines, is below.' The editors of the imperial edition prefer another explanation, on which I need not enter.
283:XII 'The Great Symbolism' here is sufficiently explained in the first Appendix. The application, however, is here again difficult, though we may try to find in it a particular instance of the interruption of communication,--in great merit not meeting with its reward.
The subject of the first line is one of the cluster of small men who are able to change their mind, and set their hearts to love their ruler.
The subject of the second line is a 'great man,' and occupies the place in the centre.
The subject of the third line is weak, and does not occupy his correct position;--hence the symbolism.
The fourth line is near the fifth, the ruler's place. It is a strong line in an even place; but acting according to the will of Heaven or of the ruler, its subject gets his purpose carried out.
The subject of the fifth line is the great man, the ruler in his right place. Hence he is successful, and in the last line, we see p. 284 how the distress and obstruction are come to an end. It was in the order of change that they should do so.
284:XIII The style of 'heaven and fire form Thung Zăn' is such as to suggest the appearance of fire ascending up, blazing to the sky, and uniting with it. The application of the symbolism is again perplexing.
In line 1, the party just issuing from his gate has all the world p. 285 before him, with which to unite. Selfish thoughts disposing to union have no place in him.
In line 2, union (only) with kindred implies narrowness of mind. For line 3, see note on the Text.
In line 4, stress should be laid on 'yielding to the right.'
For line 5, see note on the Text.
The Khang-hsî editors append the following note to the last paragraph: --'Under line 1 it is said that "union in the open country indicates progress and success," while here it is only said that "with union in the suburbs there is no cause for repentance." Beyond the suburbs was the open country, and till the union reached so far, the object of the hexagram was not attained. We may truly say that Confucius was a skilful reader of the duke of Kâu.' Of course the editors did not doubt Confucius' authorship of all the Appendixes.
286:XIV 'Fire above the sky' will shine far; and this is supposed to symbolise the vastness of the territory or of the wealth implied in the possession of what is great. The superior man, in governing men, especially in a time of prosperity and wealth, must set himself to develope what is good in them, and repress what is evil. And this will be in accordance with the will of Heaven, which has given to all men a nature fitted for goodness.
All the comment that is necessary on the symbolism of the several lines may be gathered from the comments on the Text.
287:XV The earth is low, and in the midst of it is a high mountain; but I fail to see how this can symbolise humility. Nor does Regis' representation of it much improve the case:--'Monte' (ait glossa) 'nihil est altius in terra, quae est summe abjecta. At cum is declivis sit, imago esse potest humilis modestiae.' I find the following note on the paragraph in my copy of the 'Daily Lessons'(see Preface):--'The five yin lines above and below symbolise the earth; the one yang line in the centre is "the mountain in the midst of the earth." The many yin lines represent men's desires; the one yang line, heavenly principle. The superior man, looking at this symbolism, diminishes the multitude of human desires within him, and increases the single shoot of heavenly principle; so does he become grandly just, and can deal with all things evenly according to the nature of each. In whatever circumstances or place he is, he will do what is right.' This is certainly very ingenious, but one shrinks from accepting a view that is not based on the component trigrams.
Under line 1, 'nourishes his (virtue)' is, literally, 'pastures himself.' He is all humility. That makes him what he is.
Under line 4, 'the (proper) rule' is the rule proper for the subject of the line in his circumstances so near the place of the ruler.
Under line 5, 'the refusal to submit' makes an appeal to force necessary. Even the best and humblest ruler bears the sword, and must not bear it in vain.
Kû Hsî bases all that is said under line 6 on its being a weak line; so that the humble ruler is unable even at the close of the action described in the figure to accomplish all his objects, and must limit his field even in appealing to arms.
288:XVI 'The Great Symbolism' here is more obscure than usual. A thunderstorm clears the air and removes the feeling of oppression, of which one is conscious before its occurrence. Is this all that is meant by making the trigrams of the earth and thunder form Yü, the hexagram of harmony and satisfaction? What is meant, moreover, by making the thunder 'issue,' as the Chinese text says, from the earth? Then as to the application of this symbolism, I can trace the author's idea but imperfectly. To say that the thunder crash suggested the use of music, as some critics do, is p. 289 absurd. The use of music at sacrifices, however, as assisting the union produced by those services between God and his worshippers, and the present and past generations, agrees with the general idea of the figure. I must suppose that the writer had in mind the sacrifices instituted by the duke of Kâu, as related in the Hsiâo King, chap. ix.
Pleasure has operated injuriously on the subject of line 1. He calls attention to himself.
Only a part of the symbolism of line 2 is referred to here. Such an omission is not uncommon;--as in lines 3 and 4 also.
With 'the memories of the past not perishing' compare Mencius, II, Section i, chap. 1. 6-13.
In line 6 the action of the hexagram is over. If one puts off changing his evil way any longer, there remains no more hope for him.
290:XVII An explosion of thunder amidst the waters of a marsh would be succeeded by a tremulous agitation of those waters; so far there would be a following of the movement of the lower trigram by the upper. Then in the application of the symbolism we have an illustration of action following the time, that is, according to the time; which is a common use of the Chinese character Sui. Neither the symbolism, however, nor its application adds much to our understanding of the text.
Paragraph 1 consists of two lines that rhyme; and paragraphs 4 (two lines), 5, and 6 do the same. According to Kû Yen-wû, paragraphs 2 and 3 also rhyme; but this appears to me doubtful. The symbolism of these paragraphs is sufficiently explained in the notes on the Text. Some peculiarities in their style (in Chinese) are owing to the bonds of the rhyme.
291:XVIII 'When the wind,' says Khăng-žze, 'encounters the mountain, it is driven back, and the things about are all scattered in disorder; such is the emblem of the state denoted by Kû.'
'The nourishing of virtue' appears especially in line 6; all the other lines belong to the 'helping of the people.'
The subject of line 1 has entered into the work of his father, and brings it about that his father is looked on as blameless. The 'due mean' of line 2 is according to the caution in the Text. The Khang-hsî editors interpret the explanation of line 5 as = 'he takes up (the course of his father) with all his virtue.' I think they are wrong.
292:XIX 'The earth descending or approaching the marsh' is, according to Kû Hsî, symbolical of the approach of superiors to the inferior people, and then the two predicates about the superior man are descriptive of him in that approach, the instruction being symbolised by Tui, and the supporting by Khwăn. The Khang-hsî editors, wishing to defend the explanation of lin by 'great,' in Appendix VI, which they ascribe to Confucius, say:--'Lin means "great." The earth above the waters of the marsh shows how full those waters are, rising to the level of the earth, and thus expressing the idea of greatness.' This representation is lame and impotent.
Kû Hsî says he does not understand what is said on line 2. The interpretation in my version is the ordinary one, but I am not satisfied with it. The Khang-hsî editors try to solve the difficulty; but I am not able to follow them.
The same editors compare the conclusion of paragraph 6 in the symbolism of hexagram 11. 'What is external' there, and 'what is internal here,' have, they say, the same reference,--the state, namely, of the whole kingdom, the expressions differing according to the different standpoints from which they are made. The view in the translation is that of Kû Hsî. It is difficult to hold the balance between them. The newer view, perhaps, is the preferable.
293:XX Wind moving above the earth has the widest sweep, and nothing escapes its influence; it penetrates everywhere. This symbolism is more appropriate to the subject in hand than that of many other hexagrams. Personal influence in a ruler effects much; but the ancient kings wished to add to that the power of published instructions, specially adapted to the character and circumstances of the people. Sun, representing the wind, is well adapted to denote this influence;--see the Analects, XII, xix.
The looking in line 1 is superficial, and does not reach far.
Line 3. 'He will not err in the path to be pursued;'--advancing or receding as is best.
Line 4. 'The glory of the kingdom' is the virtue of the sovereign and the character of his administration. With the sentiment compare Mencius, VII, i, chap. 21. 2.
294:XXI Khăng-žze says that thunder and lightning are always found together, and hence their trigrams go together to give the idea of union intended in Shih Ho. The one trigram symbolising majesty and the other brightness or intelligence, the application of the hexagram here is easier and more natural than in many other cases.
1. 'There is no walking:'--that is, the subject of the line will not dare to offend any more.
2. '"Being mounted on the strong first line" means,' says Khăng-žze, 'punishing a strong and vehement man, when severity is required, as is denoted by the central position of the line.'
4. 'His light has not been sufficiently displayed;' that is, there is still something for him to do:--he has to realise the difficulty of his position and be firm.
295:XXII 'A mountain,' says Khăng-žze, 'is a place where we find grass, trees, and a hundred other things. A fire burning below it throws up its light, and brings them all Out in beauty; and this gives the idea of ornament, or being ornamented. The various processes of government are small matters, and elegance and ornament help their course; but great matters of judgment demand the simple, unornamented truth.'
The subject of line 1 does not care for and does not need ornament. He will walk in the way of righteousness without it.
Paragraph 3 tells us that it is not ornament, but correct firmness, which secures the respect of others.
In the fourth place, and cut off from line 1 by 2 and 3, we might doubt how far the subject of 4 would continue loyal to the subject of it. But he does continue loyal, through the character and object of the subject of 3.
The Khang-hsî editors say:--'Line 5 occupies the place of honour, and yet prefers simplicity and exalts economy; its subject p. 296 might change and transform manners and customs;--it is a small matter to say of him that he affords occasion for joy.
The subject of line 6 has more of the spirit of the hexagram than in most hexagrams. His being clothed in simple white crowns the lesson that ornament must be kept in a secondary place.
296:XXIII A mountain,' says Yü Fan (towards the end of the Han dynasty), 'stands out high above the earth; here it appears as lying on the earth:--plainly it has been overturned.' On the p. 297 other hand, Liû Mû (early in the Sung dynasty) says:--A mountain has the earth for its foundation. If the earth be thick, the mountain preserves its height. So it is with the sovereign and people.' The application might be deduced from either view.
It is hard to tell whether 'the lowest' in paragraph 1 should be supplemented as I have done. If not, then the explanation is a mere truism.
Khăng-žze is precise and decisive in supplementing the explanation of paragraph 2 as in the translation.
See on the Text of lines 3 and 4.
On paragraph 5, the Khang-hsî editors say admirably:--'The fifth line is weak, and yet occupies the most honourable place in the figure,--emblematic of a queen; and as its subject leads on the subjects of the other lines to obtain the favours given to the inmates of the palace, she, it is plain, has neither jealousy nor any other injurious temper that might incur blame for tending to overthrow the ruler.'
Paragraph 6 shows the ruler restored to the favour of the people, and the restoration of concord in the state. The small men have done their worst, and there is an end of their attempts for a time.
298:XXIV 'Thunder in the midst of the earth' is thunder shut up and silent, just able to make its presence felt. So is it with the first genial stirrings of life after the winter solstice; so is it with the first returning steps of the wanderer to virtue. As the spring of life has to be nursed in quietness, so also has the purpose of good. The ancient statutes here referred to must have been like the present cessation from public and private business at the time of the new year, when all the Chinese people are for a time dissolved in festivity and joy.
Canon McClatchie translates here:--'The ancient kings on this culminating day (i. e. the seventh) closed their gates,' &c. 'Culminating day' does not give us the meaning so well as 'the day of the solstice;' but where does the translator find the explanatory 'the seventh,' which he puts in parentheses? In my own 'salad' days of Chinese knowledge I fancied there might be in paragraph 1 of the Text some allusion to a primitive sabbath; but there is no ground for introducing 'seven days,' or 'the seventh day,' into this paragraph of the Great Symbolism.
The virtuous subject of the first line' is in paragraph 2 called zăn, 'the benevolent' or loving.' It is the only case in all the symbolism of the Yî where we find that term used as an adjective. It is emphatic here for 'humanity,' man in his ideal.
The other paragraphs present nothing for remark beyond what has been said on the Text of the duke of Kâu.
299:XXV The composition of the hexagram is given here in a manner different from what we have met with in the account of any of the preceding figures; and as the text is not called in question, I have made the best I could in the translation of the two commencing clauses. The application of the symbolism to what the ancient kings did is also hard to comprehend.
The paragraph on line 1 is another way of saying that in the course of things real goodness may be expected to be fortunate,--'by the appointment of Heaven.'
Paragraph 2. 'The thought of getting rich had not risen in his mind:'--he did what he did, because it was right, not because of the gain it would bring him.
On paragraph 3, it is said, 'The superior man seeks simply to be free from insincerity, and leaves the questions of happiness and calamity to Heaven.'
Paragraph 5. Sickness ought not to happen to one who p. 300 is perfectly sincere. If it do happen, he must refer it to some inexplicable will of Heaven. As that has afflicted, so it will cure.'
Paragraph 6. 'When a thing is over and done, submission and acquiescence are what are required, and not renewed attempts at action.'
300:XXVI I have quoted, in the Introduction, p. 37, Kû Hsî's remark on the Great Symbolism here. Khăng-žze says:--'Heaven is the greatest of all things, and its being in the midst of a mountain gives us the idea of a very large accumulation. And so great p. 301 is the labour of the superior man in learning, acquiring, and remembering, to accumulate his virtue.'
Paragraph 1. The 'calamity' is that of opposition from, or repression by, the subject of line 4.
Paragraph 3. When the action of the hexagram has reached line 6, its work is done. The subject of 6 will no longer exercise repression, but join with that of 3, assisting him to advance.
Paragraph 4. The subject of line 4 has indeed occasion for joy. Without the use of punishment for crimes committed, by precaution anticipating them, without any trouble he has repressed evil. The 'joy' gives place in paragraph 5 to 'congratulation,' the people being all interested in the action of the ruler.
302:XXVII I do not think that the Great Symbolism here is anything but that of a thunderstorm, dispersing the oppression that bangs over nature, and followed by genial airs, and the reviving of all vegetation. But there is nothing analogous to the thunder in the application. 'Words,' it is said, 'nourish virtue; food and drink nourish the body.'
Paragraph 1. As Mencius said, 'He that nourishes the little belonging to him is a little man.'
Paragraph 2. Neither the subject of line 1, nor of line 6, is the proper associate of 2.
The other paragraphs are sufficiently illustrated in the notes on the Text.
303:XXVIII Khăng-žze says on the Great Symbolism:--'The waters of a marsh moisten and nourish the trees. When here it is said that they destroy and extinguish the trees, their action is very extraordinary.' This explanation is very far-fetched; and so is what the same scholar says on the application of it. I need not give it here, nor have I found, or myself made out, any other more easy and natural.
Paragraph 2. 'Such an association is extraordinary:'--the characters also imply, perhaps, that it is successful.
Paragraph 3. The beam being broken, any attempt to sustain it will have no effect in supporting the roof.
Paragraph 5. The shoots produced in line 2 will grow into a new and vigorous tree. The flowers here will soon decay, and the withered trunk continue the same. For what will a young man marry an old woman? There will be no children;--it can only be from some mercenary object.
304:XXIX The application of the Great Symbolism is here more perplexing even than usual. What is said of the superior man is good, but there is no reference in it to the subject of danger.
The subject of line 3 goes and comes, moves up and down, backwards and forwards; making no advance. This can be of no use in extricating him from the danger.
Those represented in line 4 by the strong and weak lines are the ruler and his minister.
305:XXX In the Great Symbolism Lî is used in the sense of brightness. There was no occasion to refer to its other meaning. 'The great man' rather confirms the interpretation of the 'double brightness' in the treatise on the Thwan as indicating the ruler.
Paragraph 2. As yellow is a 'correct' colour, so is the due mean the correct course.
Paragraph 3. 'The declining sun,' say the Khang-hsî editors, 'is an emblem of the obscuration coming over the virtue of the mind.'
Paragraph 4. 'None can bear with him' refers to the second part of the symbolism of the line, which is not given here.