XLVII. (The trigram representing) a marsh, and (below it that for a defile, which has drained the other dry so that there is) no water in it, form Khwan. The superior man, in accordance with this, will sacrifice his life in order to carry out his purpose.

1 'He enters a dark valley:' so benighted is he, and without clear vision.

2 'He is straitened amidst his drink and viands:' (but) his position is central, and there will be ground for congratulation.

3 'He lays hold of thorns:' (this is suggested by the position of the line) above the strong (line). 'He enters his palace, and does not see his wife:' this is inauspicious.

4 'He proceeds very slowly (to help the subject of the first line):' his aim is directed to (help) that lower (line). Although he is not in his appropriate place, he and that other will (in the end) be together.

5 'His nose and feet are cut off:' his aim has not yet been gained. 'He is leisurely, however, in his movements, and is satisfied:' his position is central and (his virtue) is correct. 'It will be well for him to be (as sincere as) in offering sacrifice for God's sake:' so shall he receive blessing.

6 'He is straitened as if bound with creepers:' (his spirit and action) are unsuitable. '(He says), "If I move, I shall repent of it." And he does repent (of former errors), which leads to good fortune:' so he (now) goes on.