XXXIX. (The trigram representing) a mountain, and above it that for water, form Kien. The superior man, in accordance with this, turns round (and examines) himself, and cultivates his virtue.

1 'Advancing will conduct to (greater) difficulties, while remaining stationary will afford ground for praise:' the proper course is to wait.

2 'The minister of the king struggles with difficulty on difficulty:' in the end no blame will be attached to him.

3 'He advances, (but only) to (greater) difficulty; he remains stationary, and returns to his former associates:' they, (represented in) the inner (trigram), rejoice in him.

4 'To advance will (only be to) encounter (greater) difficulties; he remains stationary, and unites (with the subject of the line above):' that is in its proper place and has the solidity (due to it in that position).

5 'He struggles with the greatest difficulties, while friends are coming (to help him):' he is in the central position, and possesses the requisite virtue.

6 'To advance will (only) increase the difficulties, while his remaining stationary will (be productive of) great (merit):' his aim is to assist the (subject of the line) inside of him. 'It will be advantageous to meet the great man:' by his course he follows that noble (lord of the figure).