Transformation · lines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6
Overflowing becomes Observing
What this change means
Everything but the fifth line moves, as Heaven turns to Earth and the Lake to Wind: wind passing over the land. The reading rests on that fifth line of the resulting hexagram, 20 Observing, which says that careful, responsible observation lets you see how similar situations turned out before and apply those lessons now. From Overflowing, a time of pressure close to spilling over, this is an invitation to look before you act. Instead of reacting to the tension, study it. What happened last time things built up like this? What worked and what made it worse? Others may be looking to you for an example, so your calm attention matters. With that understanding, the corrections can come at the right moment and in the right way.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 5 of 20 Observing, which stays still
If you observe responsibly, you'll see how similar situations turned out in the past and can apply the corrections now.
Contemplating my own life. For the noble person, no fault.
- 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 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 judgment of 20 Observing
Observe before you act. Right now you're a source of inspiration for others, and at the same time you need to observe those who inspire you. This will let things unfold at the right moment, and perfectly.
Hands washed, the offering not yet made. There is sincere trust, solemn and grave.
The trigrams
The way back
20 Observing → 43 Overflowinglines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6
Other transformations of Overflowing
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.