Hexagram 15 of 64
謙
Modesty
Qiān
Upper Trigram
坤
Earth
Receptive, Yielding
Ground · Mother
Lower Trigram
艮
Mountain
Keeping Still, Resting
Mountain · Youngest Son
The Judgment
Modesty creates success. The superior person carries things through.
The mountain lies hidden beneath the earth — greatness concealed in simplicity. Modesty does not mean self-deprecation; it means the equilibrium of inner fullness without outward display. What is high is brought low; what is low is raised up.
The Image
Within the earth, a mountain — the image of Modesty. Thus the superior person reduces that which is too much, and augments that which is too little. They weigh things and makes them equal.
True balance is the art of modesty. The wise person does not hoard their own, nor covet others', but redistributes according to genuine need and merit.
The Six Lines
Line 1
A superior person modest about their modesty may cross the great water. Good fortune.
Deep, unpretentious humility — modesty about one's own modesty — allows the greatest undertakings to be successfully completed.
Line 2
Modesty that comes to expression. Perseverance brings good fortune.
When inner modesty is sincerely expressed outwardly, it resonates with others and builds lasting trust.
Line 3
A superior person of merit, and yet humble — carries things to conclusion. Good fortune.
Real achievement paired with genuine humility is the highest combination. It is this combination that completes great tasks.
Line 4
Nothing that would not further modesty in movement.
In every action and direction one takes, modesty remains the guiding spirit. There is no situation where it does not help.
Line 5
No boasting of wealth before one's neighbor. It is favorable to attack with force. Nothing that would not further.
Modesty does not preclude decisive action when necessary. The humble person can act with full force when the situation demands.
Line 6
Modesty that comes to expression. It is favorable to set armies marching to chastise one's own city and one's country.
When even self-correction requires the discipline of an army, the truly modest person applies that discipline without excuses.
For contemplation and self-reflection only. Not a substitute for professional advice.