Hexagram 48 · The Well

Judgment

The Well. A town can be changed, but the well cannot be changed. It neither decreases nor increases. People come and go, drawing from the well. If the rope does not reach the water, or if the jar is broken, misfortune.

Lines

• First line (1): The well is muddy and not drunk from. The old well has no birds coming to it.
• Second line (2): The well valley shoots at the fish. The jar is broken and leaks.
• Third line (3): The well is cleaned but not drunk from. This grieves my heart. It could be drawn from. If the king were wise, all would share its blessing.
• Fourth line (4): The well is lined with brick. No blame.
• Fifth line (5): The well is cold and clear, its spring water is drunk.
• Top line (6): The well is completed. Do not cover it. There is trust and great good fortune.