What this change means
Five lines change, leaving only the bottom one in place, and The Fall becomes 28 Excesses, the lake rising over the trees. That still first line of the resulting hexagram guides the reading: to carry out an extraordinary project now, begin cautiously, checking each step to lay good foundations. The figure as a whole speaks of a situation that calls for extraordinary measures to keep what you've built from collapsing. That's a fitting sequel to a time of stripping. The structure may be under real strain, and timid measures won't hold it. Yet boldness without care would only add weight. So strengthen the foundations first. Check what supports your projects, reinforce it, and then step out of your comfort zone with new action. Stand firm, even if you stand alone.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 1 of 28 Excesses, which stays still
To carry out an extraordinary project now, start cautiously, checking each step to build good foundations.
Spreading white rushes underneath. No fault.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- The judgment of 28 Excesses
You're in a situation that calls for extraordinary measures to keep what you've achieved from collapsing. Check and strengthen the foundations that hold up your projects, take innovative action and step out of your comfort zone. That way your success is assured; otherwise, loss can't be avoided.
The ridgepole sags. It is favorable to have somewhere to go. Success.
The trigrams
The way back
28 Excesses → 23 The Falllines 2, 3, 4, 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.