What this change means
The third line moves, and thunder takes the place of the lower Fire: lightning above, thunder below, a scene that calls for decisive action. This line is the light of the setting sun, the hour when the day's brightness starts to fade. Its warning is about mood. If you get swept along by life's ups and downs, lamenting what's passing, things go badly; if you stay firm and centered in yourself whatever the outside conditions, you can still achieve what you're after. The poetic text puts it vividly: beat the clay pot and sing rather than mourn. The resulting hexagram, 21 Biting, asks for firm action to get past obstacles, setting limits and acting with energy. So don't let a decline in light become a decline in will. Face what's blocking you directly, without fear, and keep your inner steadiness as the day turns.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 3 of 30 The Flame
Don't get swept along by life's ups and downs. Standing firm, centered within yourself whatever the outside circumstances, ensures achievement.
The radiance of the setting sun. If no one beats the clay pot and sings, there comes the lament of great old age. Misfortune.
- The judgment of 30 The Flame
There's clarity in what you do: your inner self guides you toward your goals. A generous attitude helps you, one that leads you to share your light, and this will increase your gains and achievements.
Constancy is favorable. Success. Raising a cow brings good fortune.
- 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.
The trigrams
The way back
21 Biting → 30 The Flameline 3
Other transformations of The Flame
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.