Transformation · lines 1, 2, 5, and 6

The Fall becomes Thrift

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Water settles above the lake, with four lines changing, and the result is 60 Thrift. The resulting hexagram's still third and fourth lines now lead. The third says that lacking self-restraint invites trouble, but that seeing this clearly and acting on it lets you get past the obstacles. The fourth says the limits you set shouldn't be excessive, and that finding a way to enjoy them, to see their kinder side, makes them work. That's a mature answer to a time of loss. When resources have been stripped, either overspending or harsh self-denial can do damage. Look for the middle: sensible limits on your time, energy and resources that you can actually live with. Measure kept gently tends to hold, and leaves you ready for what lies ahead.

What to read, in order

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

  1. Line 3 of 60 Thrift, which stays still

    When you can't hold yourself back and set limits, you bring on trouble. If you recognize it and do something about it, you'll get past the obstacles.

    One without measure will sigh afterward. No fault.

  2. Line 4 of 60 Thrift, which stays still

    For good results right now, the limits you set yourself shouldn't be excessive, and you should find a way to enjoy them, to see their kinder side.

    Calm measure. Success.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. Line 6 of 23 The Fall

    Little by little the adverse situations will give way, and gradually adversity will turn into opportunity.

    A great fruit left uneaten. The noble person gains a carriage; the petty person's hut is stripped.

  8. The judgment of 60 Thrift

    It's a time to conserve your time, energy and resources so you're ready for what lies ahead. If you do, when challenges arrive you'll be prepared and will overcome them easily.

    Success. Bitter measure cannot be kept up with constancy.

The trigrams

Below Earth Lake
Above Mountain Water

The way back

60 Thrift → 23 The Fall
lines 1, 2, 5, and 6

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.

Toss the coins