Hexagram 12 - Standstill: Meaning and Interpretation

Publish date: 2024-07-25
Browse I Ching Hexagrams
Harmony

PREVIOUS HEXAGRAM
11: Harmony

About I Ching Hexagrams Fellowship

NEXT HEXAGRAM
13: Fellowship

12: Standstill

In periods of standstill or stagnation, confusion and disorder can prevail. Small-minded and self-serving forces arise when the powers of clarity and creativity are on the decline; the inmates are overrunning the prison and its guards. In such times, summon up your fortitude, don’t shine your light, simply withdraw. The wise take shelter in their own integrity and quietly remain faithful to their principles. Retreat from public activities and common exchanges until the times favor direct action. Concentrate on personal affairs with a humble dignity, even if that means letting go of some short-term rewards.

Desiring to change such a situation too quickly creates extra conflict. By accepting some hardship, while striving to maintain integrity, you are preparing for future growth. Remember that a seed of prosperity is often hidden inside the husk of misfortune.

Explore Any I Ching Hexagram

Click on an I Ching hexagram below to learn more about its individual message and the profound insight it provides for your life, decisions, relationships, or whatever is on your mind!

More About I Ching Hexagrams

Learn about the history of the I Ching and how to use the ancient Chinese oracle to receive powerful guidance and get a deeper understanding of any situation.

woman holding chinese coin

What Is the I Ching?

i ching coin toss

The Benefits of Using the I Ching

toss i ching coins

The History of the I Ching

Boats in lilly pond

When to Use the I Ching

What are the "Odds" in an I Ching Coin Toss?

What are the "Odds" in an I Ching Coin Toss?

hands reaching for i ching

I Ching Methods: Yarrow Stalks vs. Coin Toss

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7ta3RqKtnm5%2BifKp5wqGgp59fnbK5rcarmKarX6jBorrDrKuipJw%3D