Transformation · lines 1, 3, 5, and 6

Transition becomes Overflowing

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Pressure builds toward a breaking point as four lines change and a lake climbs above heaven. The reading follows the still lines of 43 Overflowing. Its second line says act decisively, but watch the signs so you can take precautions when needed. Its fourth line warns that wanting to push ahead at all costs when it isn't wise, while refusing advice, will get you into trouble. The hexagram describes a buildup close to spilling over, and asks for careful words and generosity to ease the tension. In a transition, this is a warning against forcing the finish. Be decisive where it counts, but stay alert, and listen when people advise caution. Bring problems into the open gently, and let generosity relieve the pressure rather than willpower alone.

What to read, in order

Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.

  1. Line 2 of 43 Overflowing, which stays still

    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.

  2. Line 4 of 43 Overflowing, which stays still

    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.

  3. The judgment of 64 Transition

    Things are coming together so that success can arrive and you can take on great projects, but some things still haven't fallen into place. So stay alert, so you don't make mistakes born of immaturity, or you'll drift from your goals. This can happen even after you've gotten what you want: you stop, you hesitate, and mistakes happen.

    Success. The little fox has nearly crossed and wets its tail. Nothing is favorable.

  4. Line 1 of 64 Transition

    If you rush for results instead of doing things step by step, you'll lose your way.

    Wets its tail. Distress.

  5. Line 3 of 64 Transition

    Acting hastily or trying to force things will lead to failure. Recognizing this and leaning on those who can help you will let you get back on course.

    Before crossing, setting out brings misfortune. It is favorable to cross the great river.

  6. Line 5 of 64 Transition

    You get what you want; you'll be able to enjoy it and contribute to the well-being of others.

    Constancy brings good fortune. No regret. The light of the noble person: there is sincere trust. Good fortune.

  7. Line 6 of 64 Transition

    You'll have success and tangible results. You can relax, have fun and share what you've achieved with others, but don't overdo it: any excess will lead to loss.

    There is sincere trust in drinking wine. No fault. If the head gets wet, trust loses its measure.

  8. 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.

The trigrams

Below Water Heaven
Above Fire Lake

The way back

43 Overflowing → 64 Transition
lines 1, 3, 5, and 6

Other transformations of Transition

Make your own cast

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

Toss the coins