40. Deliverance (解 Xiè)

Trigrams

Above

☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

Below

☵ Kǎn (Water)

Symbolic Meaning

解 (Xiè) symbolizes release from difficulty or deliverance. This hexagram speaks of a time when tensions ease, obstacles are removed, and liberation is possible. Success comes from seizing the opportunity to move forward after a period of difficulty.

Judgment

Original Chinese:
"解，利西南。无所往，其來復吉。有攸往，夙吉。"
(Xiè, lì xī nán. Wú suǒ wǎng, qí lái fù jí. Yǒu yōu wǎng, sù jí.)

"Deliverance. It is favorable to go southwest. If there is nothing to pursue, returning brings good fortune. If there is something to pursue, setting out early brings good fortune."

This hexagram advises taking advantage of the easing of difficulties to move forward. If there is nothing urgent to pursue, it is best to return and rest. However, if there is a goal, starting early brings success.

Image

Original Chinese:
"雷雨作，解。君子以赦過宥罪。"
(Léi yǔ zuò, xiè. Jūn zǐ yǐ shè guò yòu zuì.)

"Thunder and rain set in: The image of Deliverance. The superior person pardons mistakes and forgives offenses."

The image of thunder and rain symbolizes the release of tension and the clearing away of obstacles. The superior person, in a time of deliverance, shows mercy and forgiveness, helping others to move forward.

Line 1

Original Chinese:
"无咎。"
(Wú jiù.)

"No blame."

This line suggests that the time of deliverance is beginning, and there is no blame for any past difficulties. It advises moving forward without fear of reproach.

Line 2

Original Chinese:
"田獲三狐，得黃矢，貞吉。"
(Tián huò sān hú, dé huáng shǐ, zhēn jí.)

"In the field, catching three foxes, and receiving yellow arrows. Perseverance brings good fortune."

This line describes a successful hunt, symbolizing the overcoming of difficulties. The yellow arrows represent guidance or clarity. Perseverance in the current course brings continued success.

Line 3

Original Chinese:
"負且乘，致寇至，貞吝。"
(Fù qiě chéng, zhì kòu zhì, zhēn lìn.)

"Carrying a burden and riding in a carriage. Inviting robbers to attack. Perseverance brings humiliation."

This line warns of overextending oneself. Trying to do too much, or taking on unnecessary burdens, invites trouble. It advises caution and humility to avoid misfortune.

Line 4

Original Chinese:
"解而拇，朋至斯孚。"
(Xiè ér mǔ, péng zhì sī fú.)

"Deliverance with the toes. Friends come and trust grows."

This line speaks of the beginning of deliverance, symbolized by the movement of the toes. Friends and allies come together, and mutual trust develops, helping to overcome the difficulties.

Line 5

Original Chinese:
"君子維有解，吉；有孚于小人。"
(Jūn zǐ wéi yǒu xiè, jí; yǒu fú yú xiǎo rén.)

"The superior person finds deliverance. Good fortune. Trust is given even to inferior people."

This line describes a time when the superior person finds freedom from difficulties, bringing good fortune. Trust is extended to others, even those who are less trustworthy, as a sign of generosity and leadership.

Line 6

Original Chinese:
"公用射隼于高墉之上，獲之，无不利。"
(Gōng yòng shè sǔn yú gāo yōng zhī shàng, huò zhī, wú bù lì.)

"The lord shoots a hawk on the high wall and catches it. Nothing is unfavorable."

This line describes a precise and successful action, symbolized by shooting the hawk. By acting decisively and with precision, all obstacles are overcome, and success is ensured.