Trigrams
☷☶ – Earth above, Mountain below
Meaning
Represents the great virtue of humility. A mountain hidden beneath the earth — great substance concealed under a modest exterior. Modesty is the one virtue that is always fortunate, bringing success in all circumstances and earning genuine respect.
Interpretation
- True greatness expresses itself through modesty, not self-promotion.
- The humble person achieves lasting success; the arrogant person invites downfall.
- Even in positions of leadership, maintain a simple and unpretentious manner.
Six Yao (Lines) with Classical Quotes
1st Yao (初爻)
谦谦君子，用涉大川，吉。
English: The modest among the modest — the noble person. Crossing the great river brings good fortune. The most humble person succeeds even in the most demanding undertakings.
Luck Level: Good
2nd Yao (二爻)
鸣谦，贞吉。
English: Modesty that speaks out — persistent good fortune. True humility becomes known even without self-promotion; it has a voice of its own.
Luck Level: Good
3rd Yao (三爻)
劳谦，君子有终，吉。
English: Meritorious yet modest — the noble person brings things to completion. Good fortune. Achievement combined with humility is the ideal character.
Luck Level: Good
4th Yao (四爻)
无不利，撇谦。
English: Nothing is unfavorable; modesty in action. The person who actively expresses humility in all they do encounters no obstacles.
Luck Level: Good
5th Yao (五爻)
不富以其邻，利用侵侐，无不利。
English: Not wealthy by wealth, yet with support of neighbors, beneficial to attack. All is favorable. Even without great material resources, the humble leader with popular support succeeds.
Luck Level: Good
6th Yao (上爻)
鸣谦，利用行师，征邑国。
English: Modesty that speaks out. It is beneficial to move the armies and correct one's own domain. Even modesty must sometimes be assertive to set things right.
Luck Level: Good