Lake above Water
I Ching Hexagram 47 – Kun (困), Oppression
What Is Hexagram 47?
Hexagram 47 is Kun, Oppression: Lake above Water. Water lies below a drained lake, depicting resources trapped or depleted.
The hexagram acknowledges exhaustion without making it a prophecy. Endurance comes from truthful speech, simplicity, and trusted support.
- Upper trigram
- Dui — Lake
- Lower trigram
- Kan — Water
- Key themes
- oppression, exhaustion, endurance, expression
The Meaning of Hexagram 47
Kun asks what remains dependable when outer signs of success disappear. Do not measure worth by immediate response from the environment.
The lines move through confinement, difficulty speaking, and eventual release through a clear center.
The Image of Hexagram 47
A lake without enough water cannot display its fullness. The image is pressure on visible resources while depth remains.
Name the constraint accurately and conserve energy for what can still be done.
The Six Lines of Hexagram 47
Lines are numbered from the bottom of the hexagram upward. In a cast, give particular attention to any positions that appeared as changing lines.
Line 1
Bound by a tree, speech falters. Do not waste strength on proving the bind to everyone.
Line 2
Oppression in food and drink brings slow release. Accept modest sustenance and patient help.
Line 3
Struck against stone and thorns, return home unseen. Stop repeating a route that only injures.
Line 4
A slow arrival brings connection. Help may come late; keep the channel open.
Line 5
Nose and feet are cut off symbolically: reputation and mobility are impaired. Preserve inner truth.
Line 6
Bound by vines and danger, movement is difficult. Stillness and trustworthy company prevent despair from deciding.
What Hexagram 47 Can Mean in Different Situations
Relationships
Speak simply about exhaustion and ask for specific support. Do not promise emotional capacity you do not have.
Work and Career
Reduce nonessential load and document structural constraints. A depleted team needs resources, not motivational theater.
Decisions
Choose the option that preserves energy and a path to help. Delay can be wise when every route currently tightens the bind.
Personal Direction
Treat exhaustion as information. Rest, truthful naming, and small nourishment can restore judgment.