Transformation · lines 2, 3, and 4

Biting becomes Great Achievements

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

When the second, third and fourth lines move, Biting becomes 26 Great Achievements, Heaven held inside the mountain. Three lines change, so the starting and resulting judgments share the weight. Biting asks you to face the obstacle with energy, set clear limits and act without fear. Great Achievements widens the frame: it's a good moment to step beyond your comfort zone and attempt something larger than you think you can do, because you have the qualities it takes. The link between the two is courage put to good use. The bite that clears the obstacle can also be the first step of a bigger, less usual undertaking. Don't stop at removing what's in the way if you sense more is possible. Gather your strength, stay firm, and let the success reach further than the problem that started it.

What to read, in order

Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.

  1. 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.

  2. The judgment of 26 Great Achievements

    It's a good moment to leave your comfort zone and take on new actions, beyond what you think you can do. Heaven favors unusual actions that will lead you to success, because you have the qualities needed.

    Constancy is favorable. Not eating at home brings good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great river.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

The trigrams

Below Thunder Heaven
Above Fire Mountain

The way back

26 Great Achievements → 21 Biting
lines 2, 3, and 4

Other transformations of Biting

Make your own cast

The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.

Toss the coins