Image: Hexagram 12 - Standstill
The i ching Hexagram 12 reveals a state of stagnation and standstill. It symbolizes a time when heaven and earth are disconnected, and confusion and disorder dominate. The dark power resides within, while weakness and inferiority prevail externally. This hexagram represents a decline and signals the need for a retreat from the chaos of the world.
The Judgement: Embracing the Standstill
"Standstill. Evil people do not further The perseverance of the superior man. The great departs; the small approaches."
This judgement emphasizes the importance of accepting the standstill as an opportunity for self-reflection and inner growth. The superior person recognizes the futility of engaging with evil and instead focuses on nurturing their inner worth. By distancing oneself from dishonor and seeking seclusion, one can find stability and escape the difficulties that arise.
The Image: Finding Inner Worth
"Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. Thus the superior man falls back upon his inner worth In order to escape the difficulties. He does not permit himself to be honored with revenue."
When public life is marred by mutual mistrust and fruitless activity, the superior person understands the need to withdraw from the chaos. They refuse to be swayed by tempting offers or to compromise their values. Instead, they remain hidden and focus on developing their inner worth, seeking solace and protection within themselves.
The Lines: Insights into the Standstill
The bottom line marked means:
"When the ribbon grass is pulled up, the sod comes with it. Each according to his kind. Perseverance brings good fortune and success."
This line reminds us of the importance of perseverance. Just as the ribbon grass and sod are connected, each person must stay true to their nature and endure the challenges present. By doing so, good fortune and success can be realized.
The 2nd line marked means:
"They bear and endure; This means good fortune for inferior people. The standstill serves to help the great man attain success."
Inferior people are ready to flatter their superiors and rely on them to end the confusion. This serves as an opportunity for the superior person to embrace the standstill and use it as a stepping stone towards their own success.
The 3rd line marked means:
"They bear shame."
Illegitimate power often brings shame to those who have attained it. This moment of shame can mark the beginning of positive change and growth.
The 4th line marked means:
"He who acts at the command of the highest Remains without blame. Those of like mind partake of the blessing."
When one acts in alignment with higher principles and commands, they remain free from blame. Others who share the same mindset will also benefit from this blessing.
The 5th line marked means:
"Standstill is giving way. Good fortune for the great man. 'What if it should fail, what if it should fail?' In this way, he ties it to a cluster of mulberry shoots."
The standstill is gradually giving way to progress. The great individual experiences good fortune. Despite uncertainties, they remain cautiously optimistic, tying their hopes to a cluster of mulberry shoots.
The top line marked means:
"The standstill comes to an end. First standstill, then good fortune."
The standstill eventually comes to an end, leading the way to good fortune. It is important to remember that even though a period of stagnation can be challenging, it is a necessary precursor to progress.
Conclusion: Finding Harmony in Stillness
I Ching Hexagram 12, Standstill, invites us to embrace moments of stagnation and find solace in stillness. By retreating from chaos and focusing on inner growth, we can discover our true worth. Perseverance and alignment with higher principles will ultimately lead to success and the end of the standstill. Remember, standstills are not permanent states but rather opportunities for personal transformation and the restoration of order.
