12. STANDSTILL (STAGNATION)
P'i
The Judgement
STANDSTILL. Evil people do not further The perseverance of the superior man. The great departs; the small approaches.
The Image
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.
The Lines
Nine at the top: The standstill is overthrown. First standstill, then good fortune.
The Image says: When standstill comes to an end, it is overthrown. How could this last long?
Nine in the fifth place: 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 Image says: The good fortune of the great man is due to the fact that his position is correct and appropriate.
Nine in the fourth place: He who acts at the command of the highest remains without blame. Those of like mind partake of the blessing.
The Image says: 'He who acts at the command of the highest remains without blame,' because the will is carried out.
Six in the third place: They bear shame.
The Image says: 'They bear shame,' because the place is not the right one.
Six in the second place: They bear and endure. This means good fortune for the small man. The great man, through standstill, attains success.
The Image says: 'The great man, through standstill, attains success.' He does not confuse the masses.
Six at the beginning: When ribbon grass is pulled up, the sod comes with it. Each according to his kind. Perseverance brings good fortune and success.
The Image says: 'Perseverance in pulling up the grass brings good fortune,' because the will is set on the ruler.