Hexagram 8
比 Bǐ
Holding Together (Union)
坎
Kan — Abysmal
Water · Middle Son
坤
Kun — Receptive
Earth · Mother
Holding Together brings good fortune. Inquire of the oracle once again whether you possess sublimity, constancy, and perseverance; then there is no blame. Those who are uncertain gradually join. Whoever comes too late meets with misfortune.
On the earth is water: the image of Holding Together. Thus the kings of antiquity bestowed the different states as fiefs and cultivated friendly relations with the feudal lords.
Hold to the leader in truth and loyalty. This is without blame. Truth, like a full earthen bowl. Thus in the end good fortune comes from without.
Hold to the leader inwardly. Perseverance brings good fortune.
You hold together with the wrong people.
Hold to the leader outwardly also. Perseverance brings good fortune.
Manifestation of holding together. In the hunt, the ruler uses beaters on three sides only and foregoes game that runs off in front. The citizens need no warning. Good fortune.
The leader is without a head. Misfortune.