Hexagram 40: Xiè 解

What hexagram 40 means

After the charge of Thunder breaks loose above it, Water finally finds a way to move again. Once a difficulty starts to loosen, the next task is simply not to grip what has already let go.

A question to sit with

What has already loosened that I could stop gripping so tightly?

The six lines, bottom to top

A changing line is read on its own. These are original reflections written for this site, not a translation.

Line 1 · The beginning

Once a knot has just loosened, a period of quiet recovery is enough. There is little to do except rest and let the release settle.

Line 2 · The inner position

Three foxes caught in the field and a yellow arrow in hand describe clearing away cunning influences with straightforward means. Honest directness handles what flattery or evasion has tangled.

Line 3 · The threshold

Someone carrying a heavy load while riding in a fine carriage draws unwanted attention. Consider travelling lighter and letting your standing settle before you display it.

Line 4 · Entering the outer

Freeing yourself from the grip at your big toe means loosening a dependence on unhelpful attachments. As you move outward, trustworthy companions find it easier to approach once that space is clear.

Line 5 · The position of authority

Only a genuine inner release frees a situation fully, and others tend to notice when it happens. From the place of authority, let go of what you have been holding and allow your change of heart to speak for itself.

Line 6 · The end, and excess

A single shot at a hawk on a high wall removes the last obstacle at the right moment. One well-aimed action can clear what still stands in the way, once the timing is ready.