I Ching Quotes on Man (17 Quotes)

Man should observe the strictest self-restraint and reserve in dangerous times. In this way he incurs neither injury from antagonists with designs on pre-eminence nor obligations to others.

The man is indecisively unable to deal with adversity and is oppressed by something which should not oppress him. He leans on things like thorns and thistles, which are hazardous yet cannot support him.

Governing a large organization requires timely activity and discreet inactivity on the part of the chief executive. One must be particularly sensitive to promising circumstances, talented men, and the right objectives.

That which is bright rises twice The image of fire. Thus the great man, by perpetuating this brightness, Illumines the four quarters of the world.

Men are deceived by what the eyes see, But the gods are swayed by what the heart conceals.

The man is quiet, but firm as a rock, yet sensitive to the first imperceptible signs of impending changes. He does not delay in taking action.

The superior man, when he stands alone, is unconcerned, and if he has to renounce the world, he is undaunted.

The kind man discovers it and calls it kind. The wise man discovers it and calls it wise. The people use it day by day and are not aware of it, for the way of the superior man is rare.

Adversity breaks the inferior man's will but only bends the superior man's spirit. Outward influence is denied the great man, who accordingly uses words sparingly but retains his central position.

Secret forces are bringing compatible spirits together. If the man permits himself to be led by this ineffable attraction, good fortune will come his way. When deep friendships exist, formalities and elaborate preparations are not necessary.

Indecision regarding the choice among pleasures temporarily robs a man of inner peace. After due reflection, he attains joy by turning away from the lower pleasures and seeking the higher ones.

A clear-cut case meets with difficulty because of a tendency to be lenient. The man must be as true as gold and as impartial as the mean.

Instead of solid accomplishments, the man pursues pleasures and self-gratification. He will never achieve anything so long as he is surrounded by dissipating temptations.

Bit by bit the man achieves success. This should be valued but not pushed too far. When the moon is full, waning is inevitable. Quiescence is in order.

The man does not expose himself needlessly to rebuff By pushing forward when the time is not propitious. He retreats with kindred souls.

The Laws of Nature are such that things at their peak must decline and those at their lowest point must rise up, just as the sun and moon follow one another ceaselessly through the skies. Man also follows these laws.

Man becomes the master of difficult situations by refusing the assistance of weak men. He relies on his own strength of character.