What this change means
Every line but the fifth moves, and Biting becomes 46 Going Up, a tree rising from within the earth. The single still line of the resulting hexagram carries the reading: don't let success cloud your judgment; go step by step, enjoy each moment, and don't rush or get dazzled by power. The obstacles that defined Biting are giving way to a rise built on work you've done with dedication. That's good news, and the warning matters all the more because of it. When things start going your way after a hard stretch, the temptation is to speed up and grab more. Resist it. Keep climbing at a steady pace, stay grounded, and treat power as a responsibility rather than a prize.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 5 of 46 Going Up, which stays still
Don't let success cloud your judgment. Go step by step, enjoying each moment, without rushing or being dazzled by power.
Constancy brings good fortune. Ascends by the steps.
- The judgment of 21 Biting
It's a time for firm, decisive action to overcome obstacles, even legal action if needed. Success is within reach if you act with energy and set limits. Don't be afraid: act.
Success. It is favorable to bring things to judgment.
- Line 1 of 21 Biting
If you realize you're doing the wrong thing, take responsibility for your actions and change course quickly.
Feet in the stocks, the toes lost from sight. No fault.
- Line 2 of 21 Biting
When you see someone acting unjustly or wrongly, it's better to be uncompromising in setting limits than to do nothing.
Biting tender flesh, the nose sinks out of sight. No fault.
- Line 3 of 21 Biting
Old grudges come to light. You'll respond, and people may criticize you for it, since they don't know why you reacted.
Biting old dried meat, meeting poison. A little distress; no fault.
- Line 4 of 21 Biting
You're in a time of great difficulties that feel overwhelming, but stay firm and resolute in the face of adversity, overcoming the obstacles one by one.
Biting dried meat on the bone, finding a metal arrowhead. Constancy in hardship is favorable. Good fortune.
- Line 6 of 21 Biting
Insisting on staying on the wrong path and refusing to hear advice or warnings will lead you to failure.
A wooden collar on the neck, the ears lost from sight. Misfortune.
- The judgment of 46 Going Up
You're in a time of rising, and this rise is the fruit of work you've done with dedication. Seeking the help of an important person will bring great success; don't be afraid of that meeting, because everything is favorable now.
Great success. Seeing the great person is of use. Do not worry. Setting out southward brings good fortune.
The trigrams
The way back
46 Going Up → 21 Bitinglines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6
Other transformations of Biting
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.