比
BǐUpper: Water · 坎 · Lower: Earth · 坤
Judgment吉。原筮元永贞，无咎。不宁方来，后夫凶。
In plain wordsDrawing close is fortunate, but first examine again whether the other has lasting, upright character; only then is there no fault. Even the restless come to join, while those who arrive too late fare badly.
The imageWater above, earth below: water rests on the ground and clings closely to it, a picture of drawing near and helping one another.
A hint for youChoose companions by character and long acquaintance, not by quick warmth. Draw close in good time without leaning blindly on anyone, and also try to be someone others can trust.
Line texts (bottom to top)
- 初六有孚，比之，无咎。有孚盈缶，终来有它，吉。The first line, divided, shows its subject seeking by his sincerity to win the attachment of his object. There will be no error. Let (the breast) be full of sincerity as an earthenware vessel is of its contents, and it will in the end bring other advantages.
- 六二比之自内，贞吉。In the second line, divided, we see the movement towards union and attachment proceeding from the inward (mind). With firm correctness there will be good fortune.
- 六三比之匪人。In the third line, divided, we see its subject seeking for union with such as ought not to be associated with.
- 六四外比之，贞吉。In the fourth line, divided, we see its subject seeking for union with the one beyond himself. With firm correctness there will be good fortune.
- 九五显比。王用三敺，失前禽，邑人不诫，吉。The fifth line, undivided, affords the most illustrious instance of seeking union and attachment. (We seem to see in it) the king urging his pursuit of the game (only) in three directions, and allowing the escape of all the animals before him, while the people of his towns do not warn one another (to prevent it). There will be good fortune.
- 上六比之无首，凶。In the topmost line, divided, we see one seeking union and attachment without having taken the first step (to such an end). There will be evil.
Closeness; choose your allies well
For entertainment and self-reflection only