Transformation · lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
Overflowing becomes The Fall
What this change means
Every line moves, and the full force of Overflowing turns into its opposite: Earth below and Mountain above, a mountain resting on the ground and slowly wearing away. With all six lines changing, the reading belongs to the resulting hexagram, 23 The Fall. It describes a time of obstacles in which, even when you're right, your words aren't believed, and people who misuse power are gaining ground. The advice is to recognize this without trying to force your way forward, and to be generous toward those below you. That's how you hold on while circumstances change. After the buildup of Overflowing, it may seem like the moment to speak out at last. Here it's wiser to protect your base, support the people who depend on you, and wait for the tide to turn.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- 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.
- The judgment of 43 Overflowing
It's a time of excessive buildup: some situations are about to get out of control and overwhelm you, both personally and in your relationships. You need to bring what's happening into the open, but without speaking about it directly; watch your words so you don't provoke reactions. It's a time to act generously to ease the tension that's there.
It is proclaimed in the king's court. A sincere cry: there is danger. Word comes from one's own city. It is not favorable to take up arms. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.
- Line 1 of 43 Overflowing
It's time to act slowly but firmly; acting in a hurry will make circumstances stop you.
Strength in the front toes. Going without prevailing is a fault.
- Line 2 of 43 Overflowing
Act decisively, but pay attention to the signs so you can take precautions when needed.
A cry of alarm. At nightfall there are weapons: do not worry.
- Line 3 of 43 Overflowing
This is a time when circumstances lead you to ally with people who aren't fully trustworthy. If you act clearly and don't lose your integrity despite the gossip, you'll succeed.
Strength in the cheekbones: there is misfortune. The noble person, resolute, resolute, walks alone and is caught in the rain; soaked, there is resentment. No fault.
- Line 4 of 43 Overflowing
You want to push ahead at all costs at a time when it isn't wise, and you refuse to listen to advice. That will lead you into trouble.
Buttocks without skin; the walk falters. Leading the ram by a rope: regret vanishes. Hears words and does not believe them.
- Line 5 of 43 Overflowing
If you keep your integrity and don't stray from your path, whoever you have to deal with, you'll resolve the difficulties that come up.
Purslane, pulled up with resolve. Walking the middle way: no fault.
- Line 6 of 43 Overflowing
In a moment of success and achievement you can't relax, because there are people undermining what you've achieved, and they'll lead you to loss.
No cry. In the end, misfortune.
The trigrams
The way back
23 The Fall → 43 Overflowinglines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.