Modesty
A mountain hidden within the earth; true greatness stays low.
The Judgment
“Success. The superior person carries things through to the end.”
The Lines
Line texts are an original modern translation of the classical Zhou Yi (public domain).
Meaning
The mountain rests beneath the earth—immense height kept low. Genuine modesty earns lasting respect and brings things to completion.
Guidance
Stay humble in success and grounded in dealings; let your worth show through deeds, not display.
When This Hexagram Appears
Achieving much while keeping a low profile, so that others trust and support you.
FAQ about Hexagram 15
What does Hexagram 15, Modesty, mean?
Modesty (地山谦, hexagram 15 of the I Ching). The mountain rests beneath the earth—immense height kept low. Genuine modesty earns lasting respect and brings things to completion.
What is the Judgment of the Modesty hexagram?
The Judgment reads: “Success. The superior person carries things through to the end.” A mountain hidden within the earth; true greatness stays low.
What guidance does Hexagram 15 offer?
Stay humble in success and grounded in dealings; let your worth show through deeds, not display.
When does the Modesty hexagram apply?
Achieving much while keeping a low profile, so that others trust and support you.