✦ HEXAGRAM 60
Jié —
Limitation.
Water above, Lake below.
JUDGMENT
Limitation. Success. Galling limitation must not be persevered in.
THE 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.
INTERPRETATION
A lake can hold only so much water — its banks define its capacity. Limitation is not punishment but necessary structure. Without boundaries, energy dissipates.
Set clear limits — on your time, energy, commitments, and behavior. But limitations should feel natural, not galling. If a restriction causes constant pain, it is too severe. Find the measure that allows both discipline and life.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What does Hexagram 60 mean?
- It counsels setting appropriate boundaries and limits. Structure enables rather than constrains — but limits should feel sustainable, not punishing.
- What if the limitation feels too harsh?
- The hexagram warns against galling limitation. If boundaries cause constant suffering, they are too severe — adjust toward sustainable moderation.