Hexagram 43
Breakthrough
夬 · Guài · Atılım
Upper trigram: Lake (joyous, sharing) · Lower trigram: Heaven (strong, initiating)
Judgment
The lake above heaven: water has risen and is about to overflow its bank like a flood. This hexagram speaks of a time for a firm breakthrough and an outspoken confrontation. Doing it not by brute force but with openness and honesty is suggested; rather than arming oneself, first put your own house in order. Resolve is effective when joined with a soft, calm manner.
Image
The lake rises above heaven: breakthrough. The noble-minded distribute wealth downward and do not shrink from staying firm in virtue.
Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)
- Line 1 (from the bottom)Strength in the toes: going and not succeeding becomes an error. Testing the ground rather than leaping unprepared is suggested.
- Line 2 (from the bottom)An alarm and a cry; weapons are drawn at night. When prepared, there is no need to fear.
- Line 3 (from the bottom)Strength in the cheekbones: an unfavourable sign. The mature walk resolutely, alone, caught in the rain; getting wet and grumbling, yet no error.
- Line 4 (from the bottom)No skin on the thighs, walking with difficulty. Following behind like sheep would dispel regret, yet words are not believed.
- Line 5 (from the bottom)Weeding purslane: resolve on the middle path, no error. A deep-rooted problem can be cleared in a moderate and firm way.
- Line 6 (from the bottom)No outcry: an unfavourable sign in the end. Leaving a problem unspoken can eventually create trouble.
Question for reflection
What do you need to say openly but have been putting off, and how might it be said gently?