This hexagram is named "Jing," meaning "well." The well, which provides water to sustain people, is used as a metaphor to reveal the principle that a gentleman should cultivate his virtues and selflessly and continuously benefit and nurture the people. Jing represents a small source of water, symbolizing a mindset of being small in scope but capable of sustaining oneself. It signifies a minor auspicious omen. Although well water cannot be used for cultivation or animal husbandry, it can sustain human life, indicating limited mental capacity that prevents grand plans. It also suggests a narrow vision, being short-sighted, and having a strong conservative mindset. Xun wood can be likened to a "wooden bucket," situated below Kan water, symbolizing a wooden bucket being lowered into a well to draw water. Although it can sustain life, it requires diligent effort and is not easily obtained.
Additionally, "Jing" (well) also implies thrift. Saving well water for future use is like saving money for emergencies, so one should understand the meaning of frugality. Furthermore, the character "Jing" resembles the character "Xing" (punishment), thus it is most inauspicious to divine about public affairs or lawsuits, as it may lead to imprisonment. In ancient times, earthenware jars were commonly used to draw well water, and they were prone to breaking, so this hexagram also signifies false alarms, danger, and destruction, representing unstable thoughts and spirit, as well as false alarms and anxieties.
