Hexagram 15

This reading is a strong antidote to the ego’s desire for a quick remedy to life’s most compelling challenges. Often it is a difficult to discern between the voice of the sage(higher self) and the cunning mimicry the  ego manifests on a moment by moment basis. Ego is the voice of action and solutions that solidify the Ego’s legacy control.  The most effective way to discern between ego and sage is to first clear the mind of discursive thought (quiet mind) and sit with stillness until you re connect with the “True inner voice,  higher power, voice of the sage”.  Please hear that I am not saying this is easy.   Quieting the mind is our life’s work.  Once you have engaged in the long path of meditation, with  a qualified teacher, you may employ mantras to dispel persistent negative thought patterns.

The voice of the sage is always with us and accessible even during the most  trying times. Test this next time you find yourself in one of those lovely arguments with your spouse or life partner.  Catch yourself before you reply  and listen closely to the voice almost drowned out by the clamor of clashing egos; the quiet inner voice.   Your spouse will think this is a new tactic learned  on Oprah.  Behind the habitual response there is a quiet presence lurking.   This is the voice of the sage, God, the higher Self.   Listen to the voice, respond to your spouse or partner with loving kindness, aknowledge what they have just told you, and you may save yourself a headache or two.

 

BTW:  if you find yourself embroiled in one problem after another you can thank the ego!

I recommend quieting the mind with a minimum 1/2 hour meditation prior to consulting the oracle. You know your practice.  Based on how long it takes you to reach a clear mind, free of discursive thought, give yourself this time, for the ideal reading. Best practice is to consult the I Ching early in the morning or late in the evening well before or after the stress of the day has begun or has time to dissipate. I Ching guidance was established to help you discern the Book of Changes reading for your specific circumstance. I will be adding links, in the near future, so you may request a reading time from me.   I have consulted the I Ching for over 30 years and helped friends and family negotiate life’s difficult challenges.  You may now a enjoy a free first 15 minute I Ching interpretation on this website.

MODESTY Hexagram 15
The Creative acts to empty what is full
and to offer abundance to what is modest.

This hexagram suggests that a deepening of one’s modesty now is a sure means of improving the situation. There is no power so great as modesty for compelling the assistance of the Sage – nor one so hindering as immodesty. Those in high places who retain their modesty are loved by all and continually prosper; those below who cultivate modesty inevitably rise on the strength of their merits, without making enemies along the way.

But what does modesty mean? Certainly it entails a refusal to boast or act imperiously with others, even in small ways. But beyond this steadfast humility it also means that our effort to discern what is right and then do it is constant; we do not work against ourselves, and we do not indulge in doubts about the wisdom of correct conduct. This unwavering commitment to what is correct might be called “the modesty before the Sage.”

So there is in modesty a component of nonaction – that is, not indulging in arrogant, ego-centered behavior – as well as a component of active effort: looking for opportunities to correct ourselves, to assist justice where there is injustice, to feed where there is hunger, to give solace where there is pain.

Finally and most plainly, modesty means holding to innocence, sincerity, and openness in every situation. To do this is to empty yourself and make room for the blessings of the Creative to take root.

FIRST LINE
Be modest about your modesty and do not look for recognition or reward. Good fortune accrues to one who remains unassuming and correct.

FOURTH LINE
Do not make a show of modesty. Sincerity entails doing what is needed, without regard for public opinion, then quietly stepping back.

 

See next post as this Hexagram (with two changing lines above) becomes Abundance (Fullness).