The Cauldron

Upper trigram: Fire (illuminating, clinging) · Lower trigram: Wind and wood (gentle, penetrating)

Judgment

Fire above wood: the cauldron cooks the food and offers it both to the divine and to people. This hexagram speaks of the nourishment offered by a renewed order and of cultural accumulation. The cauldron must be balanced as well as valuable; its three legs hold three directions in balance. Valuing the wise and nourishing the common good brings great benefit.

Image

Fire upon wood: the cauldron. The noble-minded hold their position upright and make their own path firm.

Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)

1. 1Line 1 (from the bottom)The cauldron is turned upside down: fitting for emptying accumulated spoilage. Throwing out the old to make room for the new is not an error.
2. 2Line 2 (from the bottom)The cauldron is full: even if rivals envy, they cannot harm. Guarding the worth you hold with care is enough.
3. 3Line 3 (from the bottom)The cauldron’s handles are altered and it cannot be lifted: the food cannot be eaten. Yet when rain comes regret fades; it mends in time.
4. 4Line 4 (from the bottom)The cauldron’s legs break and the food spills: carrying too heavy a load can bring shame. Not taking responsibility beyond your strength is suggested.
5. 5Line 5 (from the bottom)The cauldron has yellow handles and golden rings: steadiness is favorable. Keeping to the middle path secures a valuable order.
6. 6Line 6 (from the bottom)A cauldron with jade rings: great good, everything favorable. A pure and soft maturity carries the highest worth.