15. Qiān 謙
MODESTY, HUMILITY
Key Concepts:
stability of consciousness, absence of pretensions, appropriateness, combating pride and egoism, the ability to adequately perceive oneself and one's situation
Complete current affairs and do not start new ones. Limit your ego and do not succumb to pride.
Above is the trigram Kun (Earth), below is the trigram Gen (Mountain). The metaphorical image of this hexagram is a person possessing great strength and many abilities, yet modest. Usually, a mountain majestically rises above the lowland; the cancellation of this order in Qian indicates the elevation of the humble.
Modesty is a quality of the mature mind, not innate, and therefore it needs to be cultivated. In the undeveloped mind, boasting often accompanies ambition, and pride and vanity follow personal success. We must beware of both these states, remembering that, even having risen to the highest peak, we still remain on the same earth.
The hexagram advises to finish started affairs and not to start new ones; it is necessary to optimize expenses (both monetary and energetic), reconcile with the current state of affairs, and not to impose one's will on the situation.
On the other hand, if you have achieved much and the situation favors you, remember about self-restraint and inner harmony. The main mistake of people is that they highly value their virtues but do not notice their shortcomings. You may feel that your qualities and talents surpass those around you, but do not forget that the Path of life is long and complex, and there are no limits to human cognition. Laozi says: 'The sage places himself behind, yet ends up ahead.' Modesty is not weakness but the ability to recognize that there is always room for growth and development. For if you find yourself on the top of the mountain – the only way left is to descend. Remember, there are still many mountain peaks ahead for you to conquer.
By limiting your ego and not succumbing to the temptation of pride, we are able to work harmoniously with others regardless of their position. But be wary of those who try to use our modesty for their own purposes. Adequately perceive yourself (and your past achievements) – and success awaits you.
Modesty is a quality of the mature mind, not innate, and therefore it needs to be cultivated. In the undeveloped mind, boasting often accompanies ambition, and pride and vanity follow personal success. We must beware of both these states, remembering that, even having risen to the highest peak, we still remain on the same earth.
The hexagram advises to finish started affairs and not to start new ones; it is necessary to optimize expenses (both monetary and energetic), reconcile with the current state of affairs, and not to impose one's will on the situation.
On the other hand, if you have achieved much and the situation favors you, remember about self-restraint and inner harmony. The main mistake of people is that they highly value their virtues but do not notice their shortcomings. You may feel that your qualities and talents surpass those around you, but do not forget that the Path of life is long and complex, and there are no limits to human cognition. Laozi says: 'The sage places himself behind, yet ends up ahead.' Modesty is not weakness but the ability to recognize that there is always room for growth and development. For if you find yourself on the top of the mountain – the only way left is to descend. Remember, there are still many mountain peaks ahead for you to conquer.
By limiting your ego and not succumbing to the temptation of pride, we are able to work harmoniously with others regardless of their position. But be wary of those who try to use our modesty for their own purposes. Adequately perceive yourself (and your past achievements) – and success awaits you.
I Ching Talking
The most modest among the modest noble person. He needs to ford the great river. Happiness
Hexagram Line Descriptions
The most modest among the modest noble person. He needs to ford the great river.
Happiness.
Truly successful people do not stoop to arrogance.
Harmonious modesty. Perseverance leads to happiness.
A truly good character is easy to recognize.
From his own labors, the modest noble person is faced with completion. Happiness.
A modest, honest character guarantees success.
Nothing unfavorable.
Attractive modesty.
It's time to listen and learn, not to talk.
You won't get rich from your neighbors.
It is favorable to have the need to make a punitive expedition.
Nothing unfavorable.
Your personal integrity will win support.
Resounding modesty.
It favors the need to deploy troops and go against cities and states.
At this moment, thoughtful use of force might be required.