Trigrams
☵☲ – Water above, Fire below
Meaning
Represents the completion of a great task and the beginning of decline. Water above fire — each element in its proper place, perfect order. Yet in this very perfection lies danger; completion contains the seed of disorder. Remain vigilant even in success.
Interpretation
- Even after great success is achieved, maintain vigilance and discipline.
- The greatest danger often comes at the moment of seeming completion.
- Order that is achieved must be actively maintained or it will decay.
Six Yao (Lines) with Classical Quotes
1st Yao (初爻)
曳其轮，濡其尾，无咎。
English: Dragging back the wheels, wetting the tail — no blame. Slowing down right at the start; the fox gets its tail wet, showing caution at the critical moment.
Luck Level: Neutral
2nd Yao (二爻)
妇丧其茐，勿逐，七日得。
English: The woman loses her carriage curtain — do not pursue; after seven days she will get it back. Do not chase after what has been lost in the moment of completion; it will return of its own accord.
Luck Level: Neutral
3rd Yao (三爻)
高宗伐鬼方，三年克之，小人勿用。
English: Emperor Kao Tsung campaigns against the devil country — after three years he conquers it. Do not employ petty people. Major undertakings require sustained commitment and the right people.
Luck Level: Neutral
4th Yao (四爻)
绣有衤襴，终日戒。
English: Silk-stuffed garments and rags side by side — be cautious throughout the day. In achievement there are always contrasts and reminders of vulnerability; stay alert.
Luck Level: Caution
5th Yao (五爻)
东邻杀牛，不如西邻之穡祭，实受其福。
English: The eastern neighbor slaughters an ox — this does not equal the western neighbor's simple spring offering, which truly receives the blessing. Genuine sincerity in small gestures surpasses elaborate but hollow ceremony.
Luck Level: Good
6th Yao (上爻)
濡其首，厉。
English: Getting the head wet — dangerous. The very end of the completion, when the head goes under water; the final moment where overextension brings the greatest peril.
Luck Level: Caution