After Completion

Upper trigram: Water (deep, perilous, flowing) · Lower trigram: Fire (illuminating, clinging)

Judgment

Water above fire: the water is heated and everything is in its place. This hexagram describes a point of completion, balance and order; yet while the beginning is good, slackness at the end can bring disorder. Success in small matters and steady resolve are favorable. Every completion holds the seed of a new process; so staying alert is needed.

Image

Water above fire: after completion. The noble-minded think ahead about possible troubles and guard against them in advance.

Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)

1. 1Line 1 (from the bottom)Brakes the wheels, wets the tail: no error. Pausing with caution after success prevents losses.
2. 2Line 2 (from the bottom)She loses the carriage curtain: do not run after it, in seven days it returns. Accepting the loss and waiting is often enough.
3. 3Line 3 (from the bottom)The high ancestor subdues a distant country in three years: the petty are not used. A long and hard task needs to be taken up with carefully chosen, trustworthy people.
4. 4Line 4 (from the bottom)Stopping leaks with rags: staying cautious all day. Noticing a small weak point prevents great decay.
5. 5Line 5 (from the bottom)The eastern neighbor slaughters an ox, yet the western neighbor’s small offering is worth more. Not show but sincerity brings real blessing.
6. 6Line 6 (from the bottom)Wets the head: danger. Surrendering too deeply to the current in completion can upset balance.