Ching / The Well

above:K'an The Abysmal, Water
below:Sun The Gentle, Wind

The third [nine], undivided, shows a well, which has been cleared out, but is not used. Our hearts are sorry for this, for the water might be drawn out and used. If the king were (only) intelligent, both he and we might receive the benefit of it.

Line 3 is a strong line, in its proper place; and must represent an able minister or officer. But though the well is clear, no use is made of it. I do not find anything in the figure that can be connected with this fact. The author was wise beyond his lines. After the first sentence of the paragraph, the Duke of Kau ceases from his function of making emblems; reflects and moralizes.