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Limitation

节 (Jié)

Hexagram #60

Hexagram Structure

6
Yang Line
5
Yang Line
4
Yin Line
3
Yin Line
2
Yang Line
1
Yin Line

Upper Trigram

Water

Lower Trigram

Lake

Core Essence

Keywords

restraintlimitationdisciplinemoderation

Meaning

Represents the importance of self-imposed limitations and discipline for achieving balance.

Guidance

Practice self-discipline and set healthy boundaries. Limitations can be liberating when chosen wisely.

Classical Texts

Judgment

Limitation. Success. Galling limitation must not be persevered in.

节:亨。苦节不可贞。

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.

水在泽上,节;君子以制数度,议德行。

Hexagram Story & Origin

The Limitation hexagram emphasizes the importance of restraint and moderation. 'Jie' means restraint and economy, like bamboo having joints. Confucius said 'The gentleman has things to do and things not to do,' embodying the wisdom of the Jie hexagram. The Jie hexagram teaches us: we should learn restraint, maintain rationality in the face of desires, and stick to principles in the face of temptation.

Detailed Analysis

**Hexagram Composition:** Upper Trigram: Water Lower Trigram: Lake **Judgment Analysis:** Limitation. Success. Galling limitation must not be persevered in. 节:亨。苦节不可贞。 **Image Wisdom:** Water over lake: the image of Limitation. Thus the superior man creates number and measure, and examines the nature of virtue and correct conduct. 水在泽上,节;君子以制数度,议德行。 **Modern Application:** In today's society, the wisdom of Limitation can guide us: • Practice self-discipline and set healthy boundaries. Limitations can be liberating when chosen wisely. • Keywords: restraint, limitation, discipline, moderation • Core Concept: Represents the importance of self-imposed limitations and discipline for achieving balance.

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