Transformation · lines 2, 3, and 4

Great Achievements becomes Biting

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Thunder and lightning: lines two, three and four move, and Great Achievements becomes 21 Biting. Below, Heaven becomes Thunder; above, Mountain becomes Fire. With three lines changing, the judgments of both hexagrams are weighed equally. Great Achievements favors unusual actions beyond your comfort zone, because you have what it takes. The resulting hexagram calls for firm, decisive action to overcome obstacles, even formal measures if needed, with energy and clear limits. They reinforce each other. This is a moment to stop holding back. Something stands in the way, and the stored strength of Great Achievements can bite through it. Act clearly, set limits where they're needed, and don't let fear keep you at home. Just make sure the force is aimed at the real obstacle, not at people in general.

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 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Line 2 of 26 Great Achievements

    Wait until conditions are right to act, because outside circumstances are holding you back.

    The axle strap slips from the cart.

  4. Line 3 of 26 Great Achievements

    The way is clearing little by little, and it's time to act; still, watch for situations that force you to stop at certain moments. At those times, keep preparing for when it's time to move forward.

    Good horses in pursuit. Constancy in hardship is favorable. Each day, drill with the chariot and in defense. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.

  5. Line 4 of 26 Great Achievements

    If you watch the circumstances and spot obstacles before they arise, preparing to overcome them when the time comes, you'll succeed.

    The board on the calf's horns. Great good fortune.

The trigrams

Below Heaven Thunder
Above Mountain Fire

The way back

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

Other transformations of Great Achievements

Make your own cast

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

Toss the coins