Hexagram 21: Biting Through (噬嗑 Shì Hé) – I Ching Meaning

Hexagram 21 of the 64 I Ching hexagrams is called Biting Through (噬嗑, Shì Hé). It is made of the lower trigram Zhen (Thunder) and the upper trigram Li (Fire). Keywords: resolve, clarity, decisiveness. This is for reflection and entertainment, not a prediction.

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Judgment

Something is stuck between two sides and needs to be dealt with directly. Clear, fair action clears the way.

The Image

Thunder and lightning arrive together. Set clear rules and apply them fairly and without cruelty.

Biting Through hexagram meaning

General meaning

A stubborn obstacle must be handled head-on. Be clear, fair and persistent.

Love

An unspoken issue is blocking closeness. Name it kindly and work it through.

Career

A hard decision or a dispute needs resolving. Use facts and fair process.

Advice

Do not avoid the tough part. Be firm and kind together.

The six changing lines

  1. Line 1. Stop small mistakes before they grow. A gentle check at the start prevents a lot.
  2. Line 2. This matter is easy to cut through. Act with confidence but without excess.
  3. Line 3. An old problem is tougher than it looks and may sting. Stay patient and it will clear.
  4. Line 4. A hard case takes effort, yet persistence pays. Stay honest and keep your standards.
  5. Line 5. A firm decision with a fair hand brings a good result. Stay careful all the same.
  6. Line 6. Refusing to listen makes things worse. Hear the feedback and adjust.

In short

A block stands in the way; deal with it directly and fairly.

← Previous: 20. ContemplationNext hexagram: 22. Grace

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