水山蹇
Core Insight
水山蹇 — Hexagram 39
Obstruction. A mountain ahead, water below — the way is blocked. Seek the great person, turn toward the southwest, retreat to gather strength.
The Image
山上有水，蹇；君子以反身修德。
The Image of Obstruction: turn back toward self-correction when the road is blocked. Treat the image as practical discipline, not decoration: let it shape the next concrete choice.
Shifting lines
初爻
At the beginning of Obstruction, keep the move small. Clarify the real question before seeking momentum.
二爻
A steadier position appears. Accept help, test the facts, and choose the next step that can be repeated.
三爻
Pressure rises in Obstruction. Do not make the tension theatrical; name the risk and reduce the unnecessary load.
四爻
The situation nears a threshold. Recheck motives, adjust the method, and avoid forcing a premature outcome.
五爻
This is the governing line of Obstruction. Act from the clearest principle and make the decision useful to others.
上爻
The pattern is reaching its limit. Complete what can be completed, release excess, and prepare for the next change.