47. Oppression (Exhaustion) (Exhaustion)
The lake has run dry, leaving you in a tight spot. Resources feel scarce and options limited right now — hold on to your resolve, wait for the right moment, and resist the urge to blame circumstance.
Plain-Language Translation: Prevailing, steadfast — a person of standing finds good fortune here, without blame; though words are spoken, they are hard to make others believe.
Plain-Language Translation: Kun — the firm is concealed by the yielding. Amid danger yet still capable of joy, hampered yet not losing one's proper place, and so it prevails — surely only the noble person can manage this? Steadfastness brings good fortune for a person of standing, because the firm line holds the center. Though words are spoken, they are hard to make others believe, since relying solely on eloquence in the end leads nowhere.
Plain-Language Translation: The lake holds no water, picturing hardship; the noble person is willing to give everything, even life itself, to fulfill their resolve.
Modern Application Guide
Career: Resources feel scarce and things keep hitting walls — hold your resolve and wait rather than blaming the circumstances.
Relationships: The relationship is going through a rough patch — both sides need patience and understanding, not blame.
Wealth: When money is tight, budget carefully and cut costs — this isn't the time for a risky expansion.
Health: When the body is at a low point, don't let anxiety add to the load — patience will bring recovery.
Line-by-Line Detail
入于幽谷，幽不明也
You're at the beginning, still gentle and untested — like the first sprout of something new.
困于酒食，中有庆也
You're settling into the inner position — a good stage to put your strength to use and earn recognition.
据于蒺藜，乘刚也。入于其宫，不见其妻，不祥也
You're at a transition point between inner and outer, feeling soft amid a shifting situation — a little unease is natural here.
来徐徐，志在下也。虽不当位，有与也
You're drawing close to the center of power or authority — a sensitive spot where every word and move gets noticed.
劓刖，志未得也。乃徐有说，以中直也。利用祭祀，受福也
You're in the central, honored position — a key stage to lead and earn the trust of others.
困于葛藟，未当也。动悔，有悔吉，行也
This chapter is drawing to a close, settling into stillness — a time to look back and let things settle.