Line 1 Yang
Power presses into the forward toes before success is within reach. Do not charge merely from impatience.
← The 64 hexagrams
HEXAGRAM 43 · Guài
Resolute Decision
What must be removed needs a clear declaration and measured resolve.
☱ Above: Dui · Lake☰ Below: Qian · Heaven
Meaning
Lake water above heaven evokes a blockage requiring release. Speak openly and sincerely, acknowledge danger, and avoid making armed conflict the method of resolution.
FOR REFLECTION
What needs a direct statement, and how can I express it with clear judgment?
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
Vigilance gives an alarm; even a night attack need not cause panic. Preparedness keeps resolve composed.
Line 3 Yang
Displaying aggression in the face brings danger. Even wet and misunderstood on a solitary path, maintain principled resolve.
Line 4 Yang
With raw buttocks, walking falters and advice goes unheard. Yielding to guidance, like leading a sheep, reduces regret.
Line 5 Yang
Remove the persistent weed decisively while keeping to the middle way. Correction need not become extremism.
Line 6 Yin
When no cry remains, the ending is unfavorable. Do not dismiss an unresolved remnant because the task seems complete.
References
Classical Zhouyi · 夬James Legge, The Yî King (1882), Sacred Books of the East XVI, hexagram 43
Editorial policy & bibliography →For reference and reflection. This commentary makes no certain claim about the future.