The Well
Water drawn from the well; the source nourishes all who reach it.
The Judgment
“The town may change, but the well does not. It neither decreases nor increases. Breaking the jug brings misfortune.”
The Lines
Line texts are an original modern translation of the classical Zhou Yi (public domain).
Meaning
The well is a constant, shared source of nourishment—unchanging while towns rise and fall. It serves only those who draw from it properly.
Guidance
Tend the common source and draw from it with care; reliability and shared benefit are the point.
When This Hexagram Appears
Maintaining a dependable foundation or shared resource that sustains a community over time.
FAQ about Hexagram 48
What does Hexagram 48, The Well, mean?
The Well (水风井, hexagram 48 of the I Ching). The well is a constant, shared source of nourishment—unchanging while towns rise and fall. It serves only those who draw from it properly.
What is the Judgment of the The Well hexagram?
The Judgment reads: “The town may change, but the well does not. It neither decreases nor increases. Breaking the jug brings misfortune.” Water drawn from the well; the source nourishes all who reach it.
What guidance does Hexagram 48 offer?
Tend the common source and draw from it with care; reliability and shared benefit are the point.
When does the The Well hexagram apply?
Maintaining a dependable foundation or shared resource that sustains a community over time.