Line 1 Yang
The wheels are held back and the tail gets wet without blame. Early restraint prevents momentum from carrying things too far.
← The 64 hexagrams
HEXAGRAM 63 · Jì Jì
After Completion
A completed task still needs care; initial order does not ensure a settled ending.
☵ Above: Kan · Water☲ Below: Li · Fire
Meaning
Water above fire creates a useful arrangement that still needs regulation. After a crossing, details, maintenance, and anticipation of trouble matter more than the feeling of being finished.
FOR REFLECTION
After this achievement, what needs continued attention so it does not deteriorate?
The six lines
Read from line 1 at the bottom to line 6 at the top. These are paraphrases, not verbatim translations.
Line 2 Yin
A woman loses her carriage screen; pursuit is unnecessary and the text gives seven days for its return. Remain composed during temporary exposure.
Line 3 Yang
Gao Zong's campaign against Gui Fang takes three years. Difficult completion is costly and requires trustworthy people.
Line 4 Yin
Cloth for patching a leak is kept ready through a watchful day. Prepare repairs before a small defect grows.
Line 5 Yang
The eastern neighbor's ox offering is surpassed by a timely modest western rite. Sincerity and timing matter more than display.
Line 6 Yin
Water reaches the head, bringing danger. Even after the apparent crossing, lost vigilance can undo the achievement.
References
Classical Zhouyi · 既濟James Legge, The Yî King (1882), Sacred Books of the East XVI, hexagram 63
Editorial policy & bibliography →For reference and reflection. This commentary makes no certain claim about the future.