Line 1 Yin
At the beginning of release, no blame is assigned. Let tension settle rather than searching for someone to accuse.
← The 64 hexagrams
HEXAGRAM 40 · Jiě
Release
As tension loosens, return to ordinary life; settle remaining matters promptly.
☳ Above: Zhen · Thunder☵ Below: Kan · Water
Meaning
Thunder and rain release pressure and open seeds. Relief calls for well-placed action, forgiveness where possible, and the removal of ties that obstruct recovery.
FOR REFLECTION
Which remaining knot needs attention so that everyone can move on?
The six lines
Read from line 1 at the bottom to line 6 at the top. These are paraphrases, not verbatim translations.
Line 2 Yang
Three foxes are caught and a yellow arrow gained. Remove evasions with a straight and balanced approach.
Line 3 Yin
Carrying a burden while riding a fine carriage attracts robbers. Display out of keeping with one's role invites trouble.
Line 4 Yang
Free the entanglement at the great toe and trusted friends arrive. Release compromising ties to make room for better cooperation.
Line 5 Yin
A principled person achieves release from harmful bonds. The withdrawal of opportunists shows that the change has substance.
Line 6 Yin
A falcon is brought down from a high wall. With adequate preparation, address the precise obstacle decisively.
References
Classical Zhouyi · 解James Legge, The Yî King (1882), Sacred Books of the East XVI, hexagram 40
Editorial policy & bibliography →For reference and reflection. This commentary makes no certain claim about the future.