贞
zhen1Mathews: 0346GSR: 834g
Dictionary Definition
(a, the) persistence, determination, resolve, resolution, stamina, focus, loyalty, fidelity, devotion, firmness, steadiness, holding power, staying power, constancy, consistency, steadfastness, commitment, survival, perseverance, truth, loyalty, purity, virtue, rectitude, ethic, (moral, ethical) integrity, firmness of word; a divination inquiry; (to be) persistent, determined, resolved, resolute, focused, loyal, firm, steady, constant, consistent, steadfast, committed, dedicated, sustained, true, real, correct, straight, genuine, earnest, tested, tried, certain, chronic; (to) persist, resolve, stand fast, keep going, continue, focus, test, try (out), examine, observe, verify, correct, resolve a doubt, settle a question, inquire by divination, forsee; steadfastly, clearly, truly, unmistakably, really; (In earlier Shang times Zhen1 meant to divine, especially with a good auspice, and this implication still exists in the Zhouyi in places. By the Zhou it meant to test, try out, or correct (the verb true). The common thread is to discover and track that which persists through the changes)
Radical: 154+2 | First occurrence: Hexagram 01.0
Concordance & Context (167 occurrences)
Entries shown in Hatcher's reference chain order. First Witness at 01.0
Gua Ci★
persistence, determination, resolve, loyalty "
乾：元，亨，利，贞。
The greatest fulfillment rewards persistence
Stats: 154+2→ 02.0
Gua Ci
persistence, stead(fastness, -iness), loyalty
坤：元，亨，利牝馬之贞。君子有攸往，先迷後得，主利。西南得朋，東北丧朋。安贞，吉。
Supreme fulfillment
Rewarding the mare’s persistence
The noble young one has somewhere to go
To lead is confusion
To follow is to learn mastery
Worthwhile west to south:* find companions
East to north:* forgo companions
Secure the certain good fortune*
→ 02.3
(a, the) certain, true, genuine; persistence "
坤：元，亨，利牝馬之贞。君子有攸往，先迷後得，主利。西南得朋，東北丧朋。安贞，吉。
Supreme fulfillment
Rewarding the mare’s persistence
The noble young one has somewhere to go
To lead is confusion
To follow is to learn mastery
Worthwhile west to south:* find companions
East to north:* forgo companions
Secure the certain good fortune*
3rd Line
persistence, resolution, resolve, focus "
含章可贞。或從王事，無成有終。
Restraint in display is suited to persistence
But for someone engaged in the royal service
No achievement brings closure
→ 02.7
Using Nines/Sixes
persistence, determination, resolve "
利永贞。
Worth enduring persistence
→ 03.0
Gua Ci
to be persistent, determined, resolved "
屯：元，亨，利，贞。勿用有攸往，利建侯。
Supreme fulfillment
Worthwhile to be persistent
Not at all useful to have somewhere to go
Worthwhile to enlist delegates
→ 03.1
1st Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus "
磐桓，利居贞，利建侯。
Cliffs all around
Worthwhile to maintain resolve
Worthwhile to enlist delegates
→ 03.2
2nd Line
(is, has) determined, resolved; firm, steadfast
屯如邅如，乘馬班如。匪寇，婚媾。女子贞不字，十年乃字。
It seems like needing assistance is the same as turning back
A team of four horses arrayed alike
Not an adversary but a marital suitor*
The woman, of tender years, is resolved: no babies
Ten years, then babies
→ 03.5
5th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
屯其膏，小贞吉，大贞凶。
Collecting one’s riches
A little persistence is promising
A lot of persistence has pitfalls
→ 01.0
persistence, determination, resolve 07.5
屯其膏，小贞吉，大贞凶。
Collecting one’s riches
A little persistence is promising
A lot of persistence has pitfalls
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
大哉乾元，萬物資始，乃統天。雲行雨施，品物流形。大明終始，六位時成。時乘六龍以御天。乾道變化，各正性命，保合太和，乃利贞。首出庶物，萬國咸寧。
How great (is) creation’s source!
The myriad beings (are) provided beginnings
Along with all of the sky
Clouds pass, rain falls
The varieties of beings flow into form
Great light completes (then) begins
The six positions (are) by season fulfilled
Seasons to mount the six dragons
(And) with these to master the skies
Creation’s way (is) emergence (and) transformation
Each being true to inner nature (and) higher law
Security (is) joining in the highest attunement
It is this that rewards persistence
(As) leaders emerge from the numberless beings
The myriad realms come together in peace
Xiao Xiang 3
persistence
含章可贞，以時發也。或從王事，知光大也。
02.3x Restraining display (is) suited to persistence:
For the sake of timely development
* Someone engaged in the royal service
Knows (and) honors the whole
Xiao Xiang 7
persistence
用六永贞，以大終也。
02.7x Using six (with) enduring persistence:
For the sake of greater conclusions
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
至哉坤元，萬物資生，乃順承天。坤厚載物，德合無疆，含弘光大，品物咸亨。牝馬地類，行地無疆，柔順利贞。君子攸行，先迷失道，後順得常。西南得朋，乃與類行；東北丧朋，乃終有慶。安贞之吉，應地無疆。
How consummate (is) receptivity’s source!
The myriad beings (are) provided with life
And so, (in) acceptance, inherit the sky
Accepting (with) generosity upholds the outer world
Character accommodates without drawing boundaries
Comprehending vastness, exemplifying wholeness
The varieties of beings (are) joined in fulfillment
The mare (is) the earth’s kindred spirit
(And) wanders an earth with no borders
Gentleness (and) acceptance reward persistence:
The noble young one’s purpose in going
To initiate confusion (is) to stray from the way
To follow (with) acceptance (is) to learn the principles
West (to) south, find companions:
And so, with the help of one’s kind, make progress
East (to) north, forgo companions:
Although, in the end, there will be rewards
Securing the certain holds promise:
The response to a world without limits
(the) certain
至哉坤元，萬物資生，乃順承天。坤厚載物，德合無疆，含弘光大，品物咸亨。牝馬地類，行地無疆，柔順利贞。君子攸行，先迷失道，後順得常。西南得朋，乃與類行；東北丧朋，乃終有慶。安贞之吉，應地無疆。
How consummate (is) receptivity’s source!
The myriad beings (are) provided with life
And so, (in) acceptance, inherit the sky
Accepting (with) generosity upholds the outer world
Character accommodates without drawing boundaries
Comprehending vastness, exemplifying wholeness
The varieties of beings (are) joined in fulfillment
The mare (is) the earth’s kindred spirit
(And) wanders an earth with no borders
Gentleness (and) acceptance reward persistence:
The noble young one’s purpose in going
To initiate confusion (is) to stray from the way
To follow (with) acceptance (is) to learn the principles
West (to) south, find companions:
And so, with the help of one’s kind, make progress
East (to) north, forgo companions:
Although, in the end, there will be rewards
Securing the certain holds promise:
The response to a world without limits
Tuan Zhuan
(is, means) persistence
屯，剛柔始交而難生。動乎險中，大亨贞。雷雨之動滿盈，天造草昧，宜建侯而不寧。
Rallying
The firm (and) the flexible begin to interact and so (come) the trials of new life
Moving through the heart of risk
Much fulfillment (means) persistence
Thunder (and) rain’s activity abounds to excess
The sky creates in haste (and) obscurity
(It is) necessary to enlist delegates, but not (in order) to relax
Gua Ci
to be p ersistent, loyal, dedicated, steadfast "
蒙：亨。匪我求童蒙，童蒙求我。初筮告，再三瀆，瀆則不告。利贞。
Fulfillment
It is not I who seeks the young and inexperienced
The young and inexperienced seek me
The first consultation informs
The second and third show disrespect
Disrespect deserves no information
It is worthwhile to be dedicated
→ 05.0
Gua Ci
05,5 persistence, determination, resolve, focus
需：有孚，光亨，贞吉。利涉大川。
Be true
Honor fulfillment
Persistence is timely
Worthwhile to cross the great stream
→ 01.0
5th Line
persistence, determination, commitment
需于酒食，贞吉。
Waiting at wine and food
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
酒食贞吉，以中正也。
05.5x (At) wine (and) food, persistence (is) promising:
Making use of the mean(while) correctly
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
需，須也。險在前也，剛健而不陷，其義不困窮矣。需有孚，光亨，贞吉，位乎天位，以正中也。利涉大川，往有功也。
Anticipation
(Means) necessity
Hazards lie ahead
(Be) firm (and) persevering and so avoid complications
This means to avoid affliction (and) exhaustion completely
Anticipation
Be true
Honoring fulfillment, persistence is timely:
(Be) poised, with celestial dignity,
(And), accordingly, upright (and) balanced
Worthwhile to cross the great stream:
To make progress will be an accomplishment
3rd Line
(in order)(to) persist; (to be) steadfast; persistence
食舊德，贞厲，終吉。或從王事，無成。
Incorporating long-standing virtues
In order to be steadfast
Distressing, but in the end, auspicious
Yet for someone engaged in the royal service
There is no completion
→ 01.0
4th Line
(the) certain, genuine, true; persistence "
不克訟，復即命，渝安贞，吉。
Not capable of contending
Returning to take up a higher purpose
Withdrawing to secure the certain
Promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 4
(the) certain
復即命，渝安贞，不失也。
06.4x Returning to take up a higher purpose
Withdrawing to secure the certain:
This is not failure
Gua Ci
persistence, firmness, resolve, commitment
師：贞，丈人吉，無咎。
Persistence
A mature person’s good fortune
No blame
→ 01.0
5th Line
persistence, firmness, predictability, resolve 17.4
田有禽，利執言，無咎。長子帥師，弟子輿尸，贞凶。
The hunt takes captives
Worthwhile to manage the talking
Avoid error
The elder son captains the militia
The younger son transports fatalities
Constancy is inauspicious
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
師，衆也。贞，正也。能以眾正，可以王矣。剛中而應，行險而順，以此毒天下，而民從之，吉又何咎矣。
The militia
(Means) the multitude
Persistence
(Means) uprightness
The skill to employ the multitude (with) uprightness
(Is) especially suited to use by the sovereign
The firm (is) central and resonant
The practice (is) hazardous, yet responsive
To apply this is toxic to all under heaven and yet the people endure behind it
(For their) welfare:
Given this, where is the error here?
Gua Ci
p ersistence, resolve, loyalty, commitment
比：吉。原筮，元永贞，無咎。不寧方來，後夫凶。
Promising
For a first consultation, supreme and enduring commitment
Not a mistake
Wanting peace, approach directly
The late are the unfortunate ones
→ 01.0
2nd Line
p ersistence, resolve, loyalty, commitment
比之自內，贞吉。
Joining with them comes from within
Commitment is promising
→ 01.0
4th Line
p ersistence, resolve, loyalty, commitment
外比之，贞吉。
Outwardly joining with them
Commitment is promising
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
loyalty
比，吉也。比，輔也。下順從也。原筮，元永贞，無咎，以剛中也。不寧方來，上下應也。後夫凶，其道窮也。
Belonging
(Means) promise
Belonging
(Means) confirmation
The humble respond (and) follow
(For) a first consultation, supreme and enduring commitment
(And) not a mistake:
Due to firmness in the center
Wanting peace, approach directly:
Above (and) below (are) resonant
The late are the unfortunate ones:
This path runs out
6th Line
persistence, consistency, firmness, focus 10.5
既雨既處，尚德載。婦贞厲。月幾望，君子征凶。
It has already rained, it is already settled
Value the merits already conveyed
The woman’s persistence is difficult
as the moon approaches full
The noble young one’s expedition fails
→ 01.0
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus "
履道坦坦，幽人贞吉。
Treading the path which is level and easy
The secluded one’s persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persistence
幽人贞吉，中不自亂也。
10.2x The secluded one’s persistence (is) promising:
The middle avoids the source of distraction
5th Line
persistence, firmness, focus; to persist 21.5
夬履，贞厲。
Decisive steps
Persistence is stressful
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
夬履贞厲，位正當也。
10.5x Decisive steps, persistence (is) stressful:
The position (is) correct (and) appropriate
3rd Line
to persist, keep going; to be steady, resolved
無平不陂，無往不復。艱贞無咎，勿恤其孚，于食有福。
There is no level without a slope,
No going without a return
It is difficult to persist with no errors
Do not worry: these are certainties
In nourishment find happiness
→ 01.0
6th Line
to persist, keep going; focus, resolve 32.3
城復于隍，勿用師，自邑告命，贞吝。
The city wall falls back into the moat
Do not advance the military
From within one’s own district, explain the orders
To persist is disgraceful
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
persistence, focus, loyalty, integrity, resolve
否之匪人，不利君子贞，大往小來。
Separating*
oneself from inferior people*
Those not worth the young noble’s loyalty
Greatness departs, smallness arrives
→ 01.0
1st Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
拔茅茹以其彙，贞吉，亨。
Pulling up thatch grass roots
And with this, another cluster
Persistence is promising and satisfying
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 1
persistence
拔茅贞吉，志在君也。
12.1x Pulling up thatch grass, persistence (is) promising:
The purpose remains noble
Tuan Zhuan
loyalty
否之匪人，不利君子贞，大往小來，則是天地不交而萬物不通也，上下不交而天下無邦也。內陰而外陽，內柔而外剛，內小人而外君子，小人道長，君子道消也。
Separating oneself from inferior people
(Who) are not worth a noble young one’s loyalty
Greatness departs, smallness arrives:
When this occurs heaven (and) earth do not interact
And so the myriad beings do not communicate
High (and) low do not interact
And so all under heaven lack government
Within (is) darkness and without (is) light
Within (is) weakness and without (is) strength
Within (are) the common people and without (is) the noble young one
The common people’s principles prevail
The noble young one’s principles fade
Gua Ci
persistence, determination, resolve, loyalty
同人于野，亨。利涉大川，利君子贞。
Fellowship with Others
on the frontier
Fulfillment
Worthwhile to cross the great stream
And worth the noble young one’s persistence
→ 01.0
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve
鸣谦，贞吉。
Expressing modesty
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persistence
明谦贞吉，中心得也。
15.2x Expressing modesty, persistence (is) promising:
The inner affections (are) found
2nd Line
persistence, steadiness, resolve, staying power
介于石，不終日，贞吉。
Resolved in stone
An unending day
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persistence
不終日贞吉，以中正也。
16.2x (This) day will not end, persistence (is) promising:
Using the balance correctly
5th Line
(a) persistent, steady, constant; persisting
贞疾，恆不死。
Persistent affliction
Chronic but not fatal
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistent
六五贞吉，乘剛也。恆不死，中未亡也。
16.5x Six fifth’s persistent affliction:
Relying upon firmness
* Chronic but not fatal
The middle is not yet passed
Gua Ci
to be p ersistent, loyal, dedicated, steadfast "
隨，元亨利贞，無咎。
Most fulfilling
Worthwhile to be dedicated
Not a mistake
→ 01.0
1st Line
p ersistence, resolve, loyalty, commitment
官有渝，贞吉。出門交有功。
Standards will change
Persistence is promising
Leaving the gate to interact has merit
→ 01.0
3rd Line
persistence, resolve, firmness, (the) truth "
係丈夫，失小子。隨有求得，利居贞。
Bound to one of maturity
Giving up the little child
Following comes to be seeking of gain
Worthwhile to abide in persistence
→ 01.0
4th Line
persistence, resolve, focus, constancy 23.1
隨有獲，贞凶。有孚在道，以明，何咎。
Following to achieve success
Persistence has pitfalls
Being truly on the path,
Using clarity,
Where is the error?
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
to be dedicated
隨，剛來而下柔，動而説，隨。大亨贞無咎，而天下隨時。隨時之義大矣哉！
Following
The firm comes forward and submits to the flexible
Movement and satisfaction (in) following
Great fulfillment, to be dedicated (is) not a mistake:
And all under heaven follow the seasons
Following the time has a meaning (of) great importance here!
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, firmness
幹母之蠱，不可贞。
Correcting mother’s fixations
Ill-suited to firmness
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
persistence, determination, resolve, loyalty "
臨，元亨，利贞。至于八月有凶。
The greatest fulfillment rewards persistence
To arrive in the eighth month* would be unfortunate
→ 01.0
1st Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
咸臨，贞吉。
United in commitment
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 1
persistence
咸臨贞吉，志行正也。
19.1x United commitment’s persistence (is) promising:
Intending to advance correctly
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, truth
闚觀，利女贞。
A prying perspective
Serves a young woman’s persistence
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persists
闚觀女贞，亦可醜也。
20.2x (With) prying perspective, the young woman persists:
But still invites condemnation
4th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus "
噬乾胏，得金矢，利艱贞，吉。
Biting on dry, bony meat
Securing funding and arrows
Warranting difficult persistence
Promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 4
persistence
利艱贞吉，未光也。
21.4x Rewarding difficult persistence (with) promise:
Still an unknown
5th Line
persistence, determination, firmness 34.3
噬乾肉，得黃金，贞厲，無咎。
Biting into dried meat
Finding yellow metal
Persistence is trouble
Avoid mistakes
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
贞厲無咎，得當也。
21.5x Persistence (is) trouble, avoid mistakes:
Find the proper response
3rd Line
persistence, resolve, commitment, firmness
賁如濡如，永贞吉。
So elegant looking, as though dripping
With enduring persistence, promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 3
persistence
永贞之吉，終莫之陵也。
22.3x (An) enduring persistence holds promise:
In the end nobody mocks this
1st Line
persistence, loyalty, steadfastness, truth 23.2
剝牀以足，蔑贞凶。
Depriving the bed of its legs
To dismiss (such)* persistence is unfortunate
→ 01.0
2nd Line
persistence, loyalty, steadfastness, truth 27.3
剝牀以辨，蔑贞凶。
Depriving the bed of distinction
To dismiss (such)* persistence is unfortunate
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
(to) persist, (be) loyal, dedicated, steadfast "
無妄，元亨，利贞。其匪正有眚，不利有攸往。
Most fulfilling
Worthwhile to persist
For one without integrity there will be suffering*
And not much reward in having somewhere to go
→ 01.0
4th Line
persistence, determination, loyalty, truth "
可贞，無咎。
May there be loyalty
Not a mistake
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 4
loyalty
可贞無咎，固有之。
25.4x Prescribing loyalty is not a mistake:
Certainly presume this!
Gua Ci
to be persistent, determined, resolved, resolute "
大畜，利贞，不家食吉，利涉大川。
Worthwhile to be persistent
To not dine at home
Is promising
Worthwhile to cross the great stream
→ 01.0
3rd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus "
良馬逐，利艱贞。日閑輿衞，利有攸往。
A fine horse gives chase
Warranting difficult persistence
Daily* training at chariot and defense
Worthwhile to have somewhere to go
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
persistence, determination, resolve, survival
頤，贞吉。觀頤，自求口實。
Persistence is promising
Study the hungry mouth
From the searching mouth to the feeding
→ 01.0
3rd Line
persistence, determination, resolve 32.1
拂頤，贞凶。十年勿用，無攸利。
Dismissing the appetites
Persistence has pitfalls
For ten years not to be functional
Is not a direction with merit
→ 01.0
5th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, truth "
拂經，居贞吉，不可涉大川。
Dismissing the customary
To abide in persistence is promising
But not suited to crossing great streams
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
居贞之吉，順以從上。
27.5x To abide in persistence holds promise:
Accepting in order to follow the superior
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
頤贞吉，養正則吉。觀頤，觀其所養。自求口實，觀其自養。天地養萬物，聖人養賢以及萬民。頤之時大矣哉！
Hungry mouth
Persistence (is) promising:
Nourish uprightness (and) in due order good fortune
Study the hungry mouth:
Study what is the purpose in nourishment
From the searching mouth (to) the feeding:
Study what are the sources of nourishment
Heaven (and) earth nourish the myriad beings
The wise ones nourish the worthy
(and) thereby reach the whole of humanity
Hungry mouth’s opportune timing (is) very important here!
Gua Ci
(the) persistence, determination, resolve "
離，利贞，亨。畜牝牛，吉。
Meriting persistence
Fulfillment
Attend to the cow
Promising
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
(to) persist; (be) loyal, dedicated, in earnest "
咸，亨，利贞。取女吉。
Fulfillment
Rewarding to persist
To court the young woman* is promising
→ 01.0
4th Line
persistence; steady, firm, steadfast (ness)
贞吉，悔亡。憧憧往來，朋從爾思。
(Fan Yao* 39.4: if going is impassable, then coming is alliance)
Persistence is promising
Regrets pass
If unsettled and vacillating in whether to go or come
Your alliances will conform to your thinking*
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 4
persistence
贞吉悔亡，未感害。憧憧往來，未光大。
31.4x Persistence (is) promising, regrets pass:
(Being) less than excited by trouble
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
咸，感。柔上而剛下，二气感應以相與。止而説，男下女，是以亨利贞取女吉。天地感而萬物化生，聖人感人心而天下和平。觀其所感，而天地萬物之晴可見矣。
Reciprocity
(Means) being moved
The flexible (is) above while the firm (is) below
The two vital forces (are) moved in resonance
(And) with this support each other
Stillness and enjoyment
The masculine submits to the feminine
And so it is that fulfillment rewards persistence
(And) to court the young woman (is) promising
Heaven (and) earth move each other
And so the myriad beings transform (and) come to life
The wise ones move the human heart
And all under heaven respond with peace
Comprehend this function of touch
Then heaven (and) earth (and) the myriad beings
Will now have natures (which) may be seen plainly
Gua Ci
(to be) persistent, persevering, resolved "
恆，亨，無咎，利贞。利有攸往。
Fulfillment
Nothing is wrong
Worthwhile to be persistent
Worthwhile to have somewhere to go
→ 01.0
1st Line
persistence, determination, resolve
濬恆，贞凶，無攸利。
Digging in to continue
Persistence has pitfalls
Not a direction with merit
→ 01.0
3rd Line
to persist; (what) persists; (is) constant 35.6
不恆其德，或承之羞。贞吝。
Lacking continuity in one’s character
Somehow continuing in such unworthiness
What persists is embarrassment
→ 01.0
5th Line
(is, means) persistence, determination, focus
恆其德，贞。婦人吉，夫子凶。
(Fan Yao* 28.5: older woman finds herself a young man to marry)
To continue in one’s character means persistence
For a woman of maturity, promising
For a man in youth, disappointment*
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
婦人贞吉，從一而終。婦子制義從婦凶。
32.5x (For) a woman (of) maturity, persistence (is) promising:
To follow one through to completion
* (For) a man (in) youth, restraint (is) advised:
To follow the women (is) trouble
Tuan Zhuan
to be persistent
恆，久。剛上而柔下，雷風相與，巽而動，剛柔皆應。恆。恆亨無咎利贞，久於其道。天地之道恆久而不已。利有攸往，終則有始。日月得天而能久照，四時變化而能久成。聖人久於其道而天下化成。觀其所恆而天地萬物之晴可見矣。
Continuity
(Means) to endure
The firm (is) above and the flexible (is) below
Thunder (and) wind support each other
Versatile and energetic
The firm (and) the flexible fully correspond
Continuity
Continuity fulfills (and) nothing (is) wrong,
Worthwhile to be persistent:
Enduring (is) upon one’s own path
Heaven’s (and) earth’s courses
Continue, going on and (on) without end
Worthwhile to have somewhere to go:
At the end, in due order, there will be a beginning
Sun and moon take the sky
and so (are) able to continue in brilliance
The four seasons evolve (and) turn
And so are able to continue accomplishing
The wise ones endure upon their paths
And all under heaven (is) transformed (and) completed
Comprehend what is meant to be continued
Then heaven (and) earth (and) the myriad beings
Will now have natures (which) may be seen plainly
Gua Ci
(to) (be) persist(ent, ence); determined, focus(ed)
遁，亨，小利贞。
Success
Little reward in persistence
→ 01.0
5th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, firmness
嘉遁，贞吉。
Commendable retreat
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
嘉遁贞疾，以正志。
33.5x Commendable retreat’s persistence (is) promising:
By staying true to objectives
Tuan Zhuan
to persist
遁亨。遁而亨。剛當位而應，與時行。小利贞，浸而長。遁之時義大矣哉。
Distancing succeeds:
Get distance and then succeed
The firm (is) suitably placed and resonant
To partake in the seasons’ progress
Little reward (in) persistence:
[The flexible] penetrates and then prevails
Distancing’s proper timing (is) very important here!
Gua Ci
to persist, (be) determined, resolved, steady "
大壮，利贞。
Worthwhile to persist
→ 01.0
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, firmness
贞吉。
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persistence
九二贞吉，以中。
34.2x Nine second’s persistence (is) promising:
Using balance
3rd Line
persistence, determination, firmness 35.4
小人用壮，君子用罔。贞厲。羝羊触藩，羸其角。
Ordinary people apply force
The noble young one uses his wits*
Persistence is trouble
The billy goat* butts the hedge
Entangling his horns
→ 01.0
4th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, firmness
贞吉，悔亡。藩決不羸，壮于大輿之輹。
Persistence is promising
While regrets pass
The hedge opens with no entanglement
The power in the great vehicle is in its axle’s mount
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
to persist
大壮，大者壮。剛以動，故壮。大壮利贞，大者正。正大而天地之晴可見矣。
Big (and) strong
Greatness is that which is strong
The firm applies force
Hence, strength
Big (and) strong, worthwhile to persist:
Greatness implies being correct
Be correct in greatness and then heaven (and) earth
Will now have natures (which) may be seen plainly
1st Line
(but) persistence, dedication, commitment
晋如摧如，贞吉。罔孚，裕無咎。
So far along to be so frustrated
But persistence is promising
Use wits for confidence
And be tolerant
Not a mistake
→ 01.0
2nd Line
(but) persistence, dedication, commitment
晋如愁如，贞吉。受茲介福于其王母。
So far along to be so worried
But persistence is promising
Accept these present constraints
as if a blessing from one’s grandmother
→ 01.0
4th Line
persistence, determination, resolve 49.3
晋如鼫鼠，贞厲。
Advancing like a squirrelly rodent
Persistence is dangerous
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 4
persistence
鼫鼠贞麗，位不當。
35.4x The squirrelly rodent’s persistence (is) dangerous:
The position is not appropriate
6th Line
(but) persistence; to persist, continue 40.3
晋其角，維用伐邑。厲吉，無咎。贞吝。
Advancing those antlers
Limit the practice to discipline of the home town
That harshness is timely
Is not to be blamed
But to persist is a disgrace
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
persistence, determination, resolve, focus "
明夷，利艱贞。
Warranting difficult persistence
→ 01.0
3rd Line
persistence, determination, resolution
明夷于南狩，得其大首。不可疾贞。
Brightness obscured on the southern winter hunt
Capturing the others’ great leader
This is not a call for a hasty resolution
→ 01.0
5th Line
to persist, be determined; (the) persistence (v) "
箕子之明夷，利贞。
Prince Ji held his brightness obscured*
Persistence was rewarded
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
箕子之贞，明不可息。
36.5x Prince Ji’s persistence:
A light not accepting extinction
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
明入地中，明夷。內文明而外柔順，以蒙大難，文王以之。利艱贞，晦其明，內難而能正其志，箕子以之。
The light goes within (to) the heart of the earth
Brightness (is) obscured
Inwardly coherent (and) bright while outwardly flexible (and) compliant
Using the obscurity (of) great trials
The Sovereign Wen applied this
Warranting difficult persistence:
Darkening his own light
Inwardly struggling, yet able to stay true to his purpose
Prince Ji applied this
Gua Ci
p ersistence, resolve, loyalty, commitment
家人，利女贞。
Rewarding the woman’s persistence
→ 01.0
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, loyalty
無攸遂，在中饋，贞吉。
Having no other goals to pursue
Remaining within, preparing meals
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
蹇，利西南，不利東北。利見大人，贞吉。
Worthwhile west to south
Not worthwhile east to north
Rewarding to encounter a mature human being
Persistence is opportune
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
蹇，難也。險在前也。見險而能止，知矣哉！蹇利西南，往得中也。不利東北，其道窮也。利見大人，往有功也。當位贞吉，以正邦也。蹇之時用大矣哉！
Impasse
(Means) problems
Risk lies ahead
To perceive the risk and be able to stop
(Is) wisdom indeed!
Impasse (is) worthwhile west (to) south:
To make progress (is) to find the center
It is not worthwhile east (to) north:
This way dead ends
Rewarding to encounter a mature human being:
Making progress will be an achievement
(In) a proper position, persistence (is) opportune:
In order to do right by the territory
Impasse’s timely application (is) very important now!
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
田獲三狐，得黃矢，贞吉。
On the hunt, taking three foxes
Claiming the golden arrow
Persistence is timely
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persistence
九二贞吉，得中道也。
40.2x Nine second’s persistence (is) promising:
Finding the middle path
3rd Line
persistence; to persist, keep going 11.6
負且乘，致寇至，贞吝。
Shouldering baggage while riding
Inviting robbers to approach
Persistence is embarrassing
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
persistence, resolution, resolve, focus "
損，有孚，元吉，無咎，可贞。利有攸往，曷之用？二簋可用享。
Be true
Outstanding opportunity
Nothing is wrong
But it calls for persistence
Worthwhile to have somewhere to go
How is this applied?
A pair of simple rice baskets may be used for the offering
→ 01.0
2nd Line
to persist; be resolved, dedicated, steadfast "
利贞，征凶。弗損，益之。
Worthwhile to be steadfast
To go boldly is ill-omened
Avoiding decrease increases one
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
steadfastness
九二利贞，中以為志也。
41.2x Nine second merits steadfastness:
Concentrate in order to accomplish the goal
6th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
弗損，益之，無咎，贞吉。利有攸往，得臣無家。
Avoiding decrease increases one
Not a mistake
Persistence is opportune
Worthwhile to have somewhere to go
But one gains servants rather than family
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
損，損下益上，其道上行。損而有孚，元吉，無咎，可贞，利有攸往。曷之用？二簋可用享。二簋應有時，損剛益柔有時，損益盈虛，與時偕行。
Decreasing
Decreasing the subordinate to increase the superior
This process elevates conduct
Decreasing and still holding true
(Is) outstanding opportunity
Nothing (is) wrong
(But it) calls for persistence
Worthwhile to have somewhere to go
How is this applied?
A pair of (simple) rice baskets may be used for the offering:
Two (small) rice baskets will correspond with the time
Decreasing the firm to increase the flexible presumes timeliness
Decrease (and) increase (are) excess (and) want
Interacting in time (and) functioning together
2nd Line
p ersistence, resolve, loyalty, commitment
或益之十朋之龜，弗克違，永贞吉。王用享于帝，吉。
Somebody grants one ten matched pairs of tortoise shells
One cannot refuse
Enduring commitment is promising
The sovereign presents offerings to the divine*
Promising
→ 01.0
1st Line
persistence, resolve, concentration, focus
繫于金柅，贞吉。有攸往，見凶。羸豕孚之躅。
Secured by a metal brake
Persistence is promising
Have somewhere to go
Look at the unfortunate
The weak swine is sure to dig in and struggle
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
to be persistent, loyal, dedicated, steadfast "
萃，亨。王假有廟，利見大人，亨，利贞。用大牲吉，利有攸往。
Fulfillment
The sovereign approaches his temple
Rewarding to encounter a mature human being
Making an offering
Worthwhile to be dedicated
To offer great sacrifices is promising
Worthwhile to have somewhere to go
→ 01.0
5th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
萃有位，無咎，匪孚，元永贞，悔亡。
Convening presumes a position
This is not wrong
But an absence of trust
Means extremely prolonged persistence
Regrets pass
→ 01.0
5th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
贞吉，升階。
Persistence is promising
Advance is by steps
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 5
persistence
贞吉升階，大得志也。
46.5x Persistence (is) promising (in) advancing by steps:
A well-earned objective
6th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
冥升，利于不息之贞。
Blind ascent
Advantage in not relaxing that resolve
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
(and, with) persistence, determination, focus
困，亨，贞，大人吉，無咎。有言不信。
“Fulfillment”
“Persistence”
For the mature human being, a promise,
Not a mistake
But having the words is not the conviction
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
困，剛揜，險以説，困而不失其所亨，其唯君子乎。贞大人吉，以剛中也。有言不信，尚口乃窮也。
Exhaustion
The firm (is) covered over
To risk leads to satisfaction
(To be) beset and still not lose that which is fulfilling
One who is truly a noble young one attains this
Persistence (is) the mature human being’s promise:
By way of the firmness within
There will be words but no assurance:
To value the oral leads to exhaustion
Gua Ci
persistence, determination, resolve, loyalty "
革，已日乃孚，元亨利贞，悔亡。
Complete the day and then be sure
Supreme fulfillment is worth persistence
Regrets pass
→ 01.0
3rd Line
persistence, commitment, steadfastness 56.3
征凶，贞厲。革言三就，有孚。
To expedite has pitfalls
Commitment is difficult
When talk of change has circled three times
Then be sure
→ 01.0
6th Line
persistence, determimation, resolve, truth "
君子豹變，小人革面。征凶，居贞吉。
A noble young one’s leopard transformation
Ordinary people merely change masks
To expedite has pitfalls
To abide in persistence is promising
→ 01.0
5th Line
to persist; be loyal, dedicated, steadfast "
鼎黃耳金鉉，利贞。
A cauldron with golden ears
And metal grip
Rewarding to persist
→ 01.0
1st Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus "
艮其趾，無咎，利永贞。
Stilling those toes
Making no mistakes
Warranting prolonged persistence
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
persistence, commitment, resolve, loyalty "
漸，女歸吉，利贞。
The young woman’s engagement is promising
Worth the persistence
→ 01.0
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus "
眇能視，利幽人之贞。
The one-eyed can still see
Warranting the secluded one’s persistence
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persistence
利幽人之贞，未變常也。
54.2x Warranting the secluded one’s persistence:
Not yet ready to vary the rules
Gua Ci
persists, perseveres, continues, keeps going
旅。小，亨。旅，贞，吉。
With modest fulfillment
The wanderer persists
Promising
→ 01.0
2nd Line
persistence, loyalty, devotion, commitment
旅即次，懷其資，得童僕，贞。
The wanderer comes to a camp
Cherishing those resources
And earning a young helper’s loyalty
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
loyalty
得童僕，贞，終無尤也。
56.2x Gaining a young helper’s loyalty:
An outcome with no complaint
3rd Line
persistence(ing), constancy; to keep going 09.6
旅焚其次，丧其童僕，贞厲。
The wanderer sets fire to their camp
And fails the young assistant
Persisting is hard to do
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
The wanderer
(Means) modest fulfillment
The flexible finds the balance on the outside
And so complies with firmness
Restraint along with dependence on clarity
This is how, (with) modest fulfillment,
The wanderer’s persistence (is) promising
The wanderer’s appropriate timing (is) very important here!
1st Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
進退，利武人之贞。
Advancing and retreating
Warranting a warrior’s resolve
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 1
resolve
進退，志疑也。利武人之贞，志治也。
57.1x Advancing (and) retreating:
The purpose wavers
* Warranting the warrior’s resolve:
The purpose (is) under control
5th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
贞吉，悔亡，無不利。無初有終。先庚三日，後庚三日，吉。
Persistence is promising
Regrets pass
Nothing cannot be turned to advantage
Regardless of beginning, there will be an outcome
Before reforming, three days
After reforming, three days
Opportune
→ 01.0
6th Line
persistence, resolve, focus, constancy 60.6
巽在床下，丧其資斧，贞凶。
Subtleties happening under the bed
Losing some valuables and an axe
Constancy has its pitfalls
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
to persist, be dedicated, focused, in earnest "
兌。亨，利贞。
Fulfillment
Rewarding to persist
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
兌，説也。剛中而柔外，説以利贞，是以順乎天，而應乎人。説以先民，民忘其勞；説以犯難，民忘其死；説之大，民勸矣哉！
Satisfaction
(Means) pleasure
The firm (is) within and the flexible without
Pleasure, accordingly, rewards persistence
And so it is complying with heaven
And resonant in humanity
(When) pleasure (is) used to lead a people
The people forget their weariness
(When) pleasure (is) used in challenging difficulties
The people forget their mortality
Pleasure’s great importance
(Is) truly in the people’s encouragement!
Gua Ci
to persist; be loyal, dedicated, resolved "
渙。亨。王假有廟，利涉大川，利贞。
Fulfillment
The sovereign approaches his temple
Worthwhile to cross the great stream
Worthwhile to be dedicated
→ 01.0
Gua Ci
p ersistence, resolve, commitment, loyalty
節。亨。苦節，不可贞。
Fulfillment
Bitter limitations do not invite commitment
→ 01.0
6th Line
persistence, resolve, firmness; to persist 61.6
苦節，贞凶，悔亡。
Bitter limitations
Persistence is unfortunate
Regrets pass
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 6
(is) persistent
苦節贞凶，其道窮也。
60.6x Bitter limitation (is) persistent misfortune:
This path dead ends
Tuan Zhuan
commitment
節亨，剛柔分，而剛得中。苦節不可贞，其道窮也。説以行險，當位以節，中正以通。天地節，而四時成。節以制度，不傷財，不害民。
Boundaries (mean) fulfillment
The firm (and) the flexible (are) evenly apportioned
While firmness secures the center
Bitter limitations do not invite commitment:
This path dead ends
Satisfaction behind movement at risk
An appropriate place to use boundaries
Balanced (and) principled in order to follow through
Heaven (and) earth (are) constrained
And so the four seasons are completed
Boundaries serve to define the measures
(But) without encroachment on property
(And) without harm to the people
Gua Ci
to persist, continue; be genuine, true, real "
中孚。豚魚吉。利涉大川。利贞。
Piglets and fishes* - promising
Worthwhile to cross the great stream
Worthwhile to persist
→ 01.0
6th Line
persistence, resolve; to persist, continue 03.5
翰音登于天，贞凶。
The rooster’s pronouncements rise into the sky
Persistence has pitfalls
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
(the) persistence
中孚，柔在內而剛得中。説而巽，孚乃化邦也。豚魚吉，信及豚魚也。利涉大川，乘木舟虛也。中孚以利贞，乃應乎天也。
The truth within
Flexibility dwells within while firmness secures the center
Satisfaction with adaptation
The true will then transform the realm
Piglets (and) fishes - promising:
Trust (is) extended to piglets (and) fishes
Worthwhile to cross the great stream:
Relying on a wooden boat’s hollowness
The truth within (is) accordingly worth (the) persistence:
Then (one) resonates with heaven
Gua Ci
to persist; be dedicated, resolved, steadfast "
小過。亨。利贞。可小事，不可大事。飛鳥遺之音，不宜上，宜下，大吉。
Fulfillment
Worthwhile to persist
Appropriate for minor concerns,
Not suited to great concerns
The flying bird bequeaths this message:
If not adapted to heights, adapt to remaining below
Much promise
→ 01.0
4th Line
persistence, resolve, focus, steadfastness
無咎，弗過遇之。往厲必戒，勿用永贞。
Make no mistakes
Do not be beyond greeting others in passing
Difficult progress demands heedfulness
Do not rely on unrelenting persistence
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
persistence
小過，小者過而亨也。過以利贞，與時行也。柔得中，是以小事吉也。剛失位而不中，是以不可大事也。有飛鳥之象焉。飛鳥遺之音，不宜上宜下，大吉；上逆而下順也。
Smallness in excess
The small are those who go beyond and so (are) fulfilled
Exceeding, accordingly, (is) worth persistence
To take part in the time (is) to move
The flexible gains the center
This is how minor concerns (are) promising
The firm (has) lost position and also is not in the center
(And) so this is, accordingly, not suited to great concerns
There is the flying bird’s image herein
The flying bird bequeaths this message:
(If) not adapted to heights (then) adapt to (remaining) below
Much promise:
Above (is) resistance while below (is) acceptance
Gua Ci
to persist; be determined, resolved, firm "
既濟。亨，小利贞，初吉終亂。
Fulfillment is minor
But rewarding to persist
At the beginning, promise; by the end, disorder
→ 01.0
Tuan Zhuan
to persist
既濟亨，小者亨也。利贞，剛柔正而位當也。初吉，柔得中也。終止則亂，其道窮也。
After completion (comes) fulfillment
The minor is that which fulfills
Worthwhile to persist:
The firm (and) the flexible (are all) correct and also properly placed
At the beginning, promise:
The flexible occupies the center
By the end equilibrium results in disorder
This process (is) finished
2nd Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
曳其輪，贞吉。
Braking those wheels
Persistence is promising
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 2
persistence
九二贞吉，中以行正也。
64.2x Nine second’s persistence (is) promising:
In balance in order to advance correctly
4th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
贞吉，悔亡。震用伐鬼方，三年有賞于大國。
Persistence is promising while regrets pass
Force was spent to subjugate the barbarian country
Though three years brought rewards of great domains
→ 01.0
Xiao Xiang 4
persistence
贞吉悔亡，志行也。
64.4x Persistence (is) promising (while) regrets pass:
The objectives (are) carried out
5th Line
persistence, determination, resolve, focus
贞吉，無悔。君子之光，有孚，吉。
Persistence is promising
Despite the regrets
The noble young one moves toward the light of example
Holding true
Promising
→ 01.0
Homophones (zhen)
枕zhen3(a) resting place (to rest), pillow, headrest (s)振zhen4stimulates, (a)rouses, stirs up, quickens震zhen4(a, the) shock, thunder, shakeup, excitement, arousal, stimulation, movement, motion, force, power, energy, vibration, quake, terror, awe, unexpected; (to) shake (up), excite, stimulate, quicken, rouse, arouse, motivate, move, marshal; inspire, frighten, shock, startle, scare, alarm; tremble, vibrate, lift, quiver, dust off (s, ed, ing); (to be) shaken, shook up, excited, roused, aroused, stimulated, moved, motivated, frightened, startled, scared, alarmed; awe inspiring
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