Standstill
Heaven and earth draw apart; withdraw and keep your integrity.
The Judgment
“Standstill of evil people. It does not further the superior person. The great departs, the small approaches.”
The Lines
Line texts are an original modern translation of the classical Zhou Yi (public domain).
Meaning
Heaven rises, earth sinks—their energies no longer meet. Communication breaks down and stagnation sets in.
Guidance
Do not force progress now; preserve your principles inwardly and wait for the obstruction to pass.
When This Hexagram Appears
A blocked, uncooperative period when it is wiser to retreat and hold your values than to push.
FAQ about Hexagram 12
What does Hexagram 12, Standstill, mean?
Standstill (天地否, hexagram 12 of the I Ching). Heaven rises, earth sinks—their energies no longer meet. Communication breaks down and stagnation sets in.
What is the Judgment of the Standstill hexagram?
The Judgment reads: “Standstill of evil people. It does not further the superior person. The great departs, the small approaches.” Heaven and earth draw apart; withdraw and keep your integrity.
What guidance does Hexagram 12 offer?
Do not force progress now; preserve your principles inwardly and wait for the obstruction to pass.
When does the Standstill hexagram apply?
A blocked, uncooperative period when it is wiser to retreat and hold your values than to push.