Transformation · lines 2, 3, and 5

Biting becomes Activity

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Thunder and Fire both become Heaven as the second, third and fifth lines move, and Biting turns into 1 Activity. The two judgments share the weight. Biting asks for decisive action against obstacles, clear limits, energy and no fear. Activity is the creative principle itself: new beginnings, flourishing, and the qualities that carry any project through. In this movement, the hard work of biting through becomes pure forward drive. The resistance you've been dealing with can turn into momentum. That's encouraging, but it asks something of you. The image speaks of strength that doesn't rest, which means steady effort, not a single burst. Keep setting fair limits, keep acting with energy, and let the push come from a clear purpose. If you only fight obstacles, you'll miss the chance to start something new.

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 1 Activity

    The creative principle. Activity. New beginnings, flourishing, and the qualities you need to carry any undertaking or project through to success.

    Great success. Constancy is favorable.

  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 5 of 21 Biting

    When you correct mistakes others have made, be steady and impartial, and you'll get results.

    Biting dried meat, finding yellow gold. Constancy is in danger. No fault.

The trigrams

Below Thunder Heaven
Above Fire Heaven

The way back

1 Activity → 21 Biting
lines 2, 3, and 5

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