What this change means
Five lines move, and of the old figure only the top line remains: The Fall becomes 1 Activity, heaven doubled. That still top line of the resulting hexagram is the guide, and its message is short: pride may be your worst enemy right now. The shift is huge, from stripping and loss to pure creative strength, new beginnings and the qualities that carry a project through. Such a turn can go to your head. After being doubted and pushed aside, it's natural to want to prove yourself, to climb higher than anyone. Be careful. Strength used without humility tends to overreach and fall. Keep working steadily, the way heaven moves without resting, but stay modest about your success, listen to others, and remember how recently you were on the ground.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 6 of 1 Activity, which stays still
Pride may be your worst enemy right now.
A dragon that climbs too high. There is regret.
- The judgment of 23 The Fall
It's a time of obstacles and difficulties when, even if you're right, your words aren't believed. Lesser people who misuse power are on the rise, and you could become their victim. Recognizing this time without trying to push ahead, and being generous and giving toward those beneath you, will help you hold on while circumstances change.
It is not favorable to have somewhere to go.
- Line 1 of 23 The Fall
Your enemies have the power now and use any means to damage your image, even slander. All you can do is keep your inner strength and wait for better times.
The bed is stripped at the legs. Constancy is destroyed: misfortune.
- Line 2 of 23 The Fall
Resources and help aren't enough right now. All you can do is wait for better conditions.
The bed is stripped at the frame. Constancy is destroyed: misfortune.
- Line 3 of 23 The Fall
Turning to spiritual resources and inner help will keep adversity away.
Stripping. No fault.
- Line 4 of 23 The Fall
Adversity is advancing; even your body may be affected.
The bed is stripped down to the skin. Misfortune.
- Line 5 of 23 The Fall
You'll receive unexpected help that puts you in a favorable position.
Fish strung in a row: favor like that of the palace ladies. Nothing that is not favorable.
- 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.
The trigrams
The way back
1 Activity → 23 The Falllines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
Other transformations of The Fall
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.