離
30. Dependence / Clinging
lí · Fire ☲ over Fire ☲
A clarity that has no foundation of its own — it becomes real only once it clings to what is right.
The Great Man's Path
Fire doesn't exist on its own — it needs fuel to cling to. The same is true of insight or intelligence: they mean nothing if they don't rest on what is right (Yi). And this has to be sustained continuously, not now and then.
The Lesson
Sharpness of mind alone isn't enough. It needs support in what is right — and constant attention, so it doesn't go out.
A question to sit with
Where do I have clarity of thought that lacks support in what is right?