Hexagram 52

Kên / Keeping Still, Mountain



Upper Trigram: Kên Keeping Still, Mountain
Lower Trigram: Kên Keeping Still, Mountain



Hexagram Analysis

I Ching Hexagram 52 : 艮 Kên / Keeping Still, Mountain

The hexagram depicted in this image is that of a mountain, the offspring of both heaven and earth. The masculine force is situated at the peak, as it naturally strives upwards, while the feminine force rests below, having reached its natural conclusion in movement. When applied to humanity, this hexagram speaks to the challenge of achieving inner peace. Quieting the mind is a formidable task, and while Buddhism seeks to achieve this through the cessation of all movement in nirvana, the Book of Changes suggests that stillness is merely one half of a polarity that requires movement as its counterpart. It is possible that the text offers guidance for the practice of yoga.




The Judgment

Staying Motionless. By keeping their back still, they disconnect from their physical being. They step outside into the courtyard, oblivious to the presence of others. No fault lies in this.

Genuine tranquility involves knowing when to be still and when to move forward. By aligning rest and action with the demands of the moment, one can find enlightenment in life. The hexagram represents both the end and the beginning of all motion. It is called "the back" because it houses the nerve fibers responsible for movement. When these nerves are stilled, the ego's restlessness fades away. With a calm mind, one can turn outward and see beyond the struggles of individuals. This true peace of mind is necessary for comprehending the universe's great laws and acting in harmony with them. Those who act from this deep place make no errors.




The Image

When mountains stand in close proximity, it symbolizes the act of being still. Therefore, a wise person refrains from letting their thoughts wander beyond their current circumstances.

The mind is always active, and while this cannot be altered, one's thoughts - the actions of the mind - should remain focused on the present moment. Any thoughts that extend beyond this only cause unnecessary distress.