Limitation
"Water over the lake. Limitation is success. Galling limitation must not be persevered in."
The Judgment
Limitation. Success. Galling limitation must not be persevered in.
Original Text
亨。苦节不可贞。
The Image
Water over lake: The image of Limitation. Thus the superior man creates number and measure, and examines the nature of virtue and correct conduct.
Original Text
泽上有水，节；君子以制数度，议德行。
The Lines
Nine at the Beginning初九
"Not going out of the door and the courtyard is without blame."
Know when to stop before you start.
Original: 不出户庭，无咎。
Nine at the Place 2九二
"Not going out of the gate and the courtyard brings misfortune."
Missing the right time to act is a mistake.
Original: 不出门庭，凶。
Six at the Place 3六三
"He who knows no limitation will have cause to lament. No blame."
Lack of self-control leads to regret.
Original: 不节若，则嗟若，无咎。
Six at the Place 4六四
"Contented limitation. Success."
Accepting natural limits brings peace.
Original: 安节，亨。
Nine at the Place 5九五
"Sweet limitation brings good fortune. Going brings esteem."
Moderation that is pleasant brings success.
Original: 甘节，吉，往有尚。
Six at the Top上六
"Galling limitation. Perseverance brings misfortune. Remorse disappears."
Too much restriction creates a backlash.
Original: 苦节，贞凶，悔亡。