15. Ch'ien / Modesty
(Earth above Mountain)
Description
The Mountain does not overshadow the Plain surrounding it:
Such modest consideration in a Superior Person creates a channel through which excess flows to the needy.
Success if you carry things through.
Analysis
The Cosmos is moving toward equilibrium.
Extremes are being tempered, excess is beginning to shift toward the empty.
You can use these moderating influences to strike a balance in the world around you.
Remember, though, that this Leveling will not come about through an arrogant confiscation of excess, but through subtler persuasions.
Modesty and moderation are the keys.
Changing Lines
Line 1
The Superior Person is modest about his modesty, and thus may cross to the far shore.
Good fortune.
Line 2
Modesty that radiates.
This course brings good fortune.
Line 3
The Superior Person modestly brings things to completion.
Great success.
Line 4
Progressive modesty continues to gain.
Line 5
Modest yet firm resistance against an oppressor will end the aggression and win concessions.
Line 6
Modesty is the best face when correcting the errors of your own allies.