Hexagram 21 of 64
噬嗑
Biting Through
Shì Kè
Upper Trigram
離
Fire
Clinging, Brilliant
Fire · Middle Daughter
Lower Trigram
震
Thunder
Arousing, Movement
Thunder · Eldest Son
The Judgment
Biting Through has success. It is favorable to let justice be administered.
There is an obstacle in the mouth — something between the jaws that must be bitten through. This is the moment for decisive judgment and clear, impartial justice. Half-measures only prolong the obstruction.
The Image
Thunder and lightning — the image of Biting Through. Thus the kings of old made firm the laws through clearly defined penalties.
The clarity of lightning and the shock of thunder together make natural law legible to all. Clear penalties, consistently applied, serve as lightning rods for order.
The Six Lines
Line 1
His feet are fastened in the stocks, so that his toes disappear. No blame.
A mild first consequence prevents greater harm. Early correction, even if uncomfortable, stops the problem before it grows.
Line 2
Bites through tender meat, so that his nose disappears. No blame.
Energetic corrective action on an easy obstacle. The only risk is going too far — enthusiasm should not turn to excess.
Line 3
Bites on old dried meat and strikes on something poisonous. Slight humiliation. No blame.
Tackling old, hardened problems reveals unpleasant hidden toxins. A little shame is unavoidable; the effort is still right.
Line 4
Bites on dried gristly meat. Receives metal arrows. It furthers to be mindful of difficulties and be persevering. Good fortune.
The obstacle is genuinely hard. Justice requires tools of precision and the stamina to persist through resistance.
Line 5
Bites on dried lean meat. Receives yellow gold. Perseverance in awareness of danger. No blame.
The judge receives valuable insight. Careful, measured, aware action in the administration of justice earns lasting respect.
Line 6
His neck is fastened in the wooden cangue so that his ears disappear. Misfortune.
The one who refused all correction now bears the heaviest consequence. Persistent obstruction of justice ends in its own defeat.
For contemplation and self-reflection only. Not a substitute for professional advice.