Hexagram 52 of 64
Keeping Still 艮为山
☶☶ Mountain over Mountain
Stopping and keeping one's place.
Hexagram 52 is about stopping and keeping your place. Its image is two mountains resting one upon the other, firm and still. It describes a time when moving on would be restless, and rest, boundaries, and inner calm matter more. It suggests stepping back, letting the mind settle, and not reaching for what is not yet yours.
Judgment
艮其背，不获其身；行其庭，不见其人，无咎。
Keep still so the person is not seen. Walk through the courtyard and see no one. No blame.
Image
兼山艮；君子以思不出其位。
Mountains joined: keeping still. The noble person does not think beyond their own position.
The six lines
Read from the bottom line (the beginning) to the top line (the outcome). Each line gives the classical text, our English translation, and a plain-language reading.
初六：艮其趾，无咎，利永贞。
Stop at the toes. No blame. Lasting steadfastness is favorable.
Begin by holding still in small matters. Patient, steady control of your first steps protects you.
六二：艮其腓，不拯其随，其心不快。
Stopping at the calves, unable to lift the one who follows. The heart is displeased.
You may want to carry someone else's pace, but you cannot control it. Frustration is natural; let go of forcing outcomes.
九三：艮其限，裂其夤，厉阍心。
Stopping at the hips and tearing the sinews of the back. Danger that stifles the heart.
Holding still when you need to move can strain you. Notice the tension and find a healthier way to release it.
六四：艮其身，无咎。
Stopping at the body. No blame.
Keeping your own conduct still and in order keeps you clear of trouble.
六五：艮其辅，言有孚，悔亡。
Stopping at the jaws. Speaking with sincerity, regret fades.
Speak carefully and sincerely. Choosing your words with restraint leaves less room for regret.
上九：敦艮，吉。
Steadfast stopping. Good fortune.
Firm, deliberate stillness serves you well. Rest and clear boundaries bring good results.
In practice
Love and relationships
Stillness can make room for listening in a relationship. Pause before pressing a point, and give each other space to be heard.
Work and decisions
When a project is stuck, it may be time to hold your position, avoid new commitments, and finish what is already in front of you.
Money
Hold steady: avoid chasing new investments or quick returns. Keep your current plan and review it before making changes.
How to use this reading
Use this reading when you feel restless and want to know whether to keep moving or stay put. Ask: what should I hold still, and what can I let rest?
New to the method? Start with the six-line basics.
For cultural reflection only. This is not a prediction guarantee or professional advice.