First Six (初六)
Overturning the couch by injuring its legs; destruction of firm correctness brings evil.
The foundation crumbles first. When you abandon your principles at the outset, the entire structure collapses. Hold fast to what is right.
Hexagram 23
Bō 剝
Upper · Gèn (Mountain) | Lower · Kūn (Earth)
Decay · stripping away · erosion · small men ascendant · patience · preserving the root
What does Hexagram 23 mean?
Hexagram 23, Bō (剝), is about decay, stripping away, and erosion. This hexagram marks a season of decline and dissolution. Yin gradually displaces yang, and lesser forces gain ground over the worthy.
The Judgment
"It will not be advantageous to make a movement in any direction."
This hexagram marks a season of decline and dissolution. Yin gradually displaces yang, and lesser forces gain ground over the worthy. Rather than resist through forceful action, you must preserve your inner integrity and wait for the natural turning of the cycle.
The Lines
Second Six (六二)
Overthrowing the couch by injuring its frame; destruction of firm correctness brings evil.
Decay advances steadily upward. Do not compromise your standards, no matter how much pressure mounts around you.
Third Six (六三)
Among the overthrowers, yet there is no error.
You may step away from the corrupting force and align yourself with what is true. In doing so, you incur no blame.
Fourth Six (六四)
Overthrown the couch, going to injure the skin; there will be evil.
The dissolution has reached your very body. The danger is acute and immediate. Exercise utmost caution now.
Fifth Six (六五)
Leading others like a string of fishes; obtaining the favour of the palace inmates; advantage in every way.
When you follow a worthy leader, protection comes even in dark times. Trust in right guidance and you will be sheltered.
Top Nine (上九)
A great fruit uneaten; the superior man finds the people as a chariot carrying him; small men overthrow their own dwellings.
What is rooted and whole cannot be consumed. Preserve your essence like a seed, and new growth will surely follow.
Hexagram 23 FAQ
What does Hexagram 23 mean for career?
This is not the time to push forward or launch new ventures. Instead, focus on protecting your core skills and reputation. Strengthen your foundation and wait for conditions to improve. Overextending yourself now will only deepen your losses.
What does Hexagram 23 mean for love and relationships?
Relationships feel strained or are dissolving. Rather than cling desperately, take time to reflect on what truly matters. Sometimes letting go with grace is wiser than struggling to hold on. Preserve your self-respect and dignity above all.
What does Hexagram 23 mean for study and personal growth?
You may feel your progress stalling or your confidence eroding. Do not panic or abandon your studies. Return to fundamentals and rebuild your understanding from the ground up. This difficult season will strengthen your foundation for future growth.
What does Hexagram 23 mean for business and money?
Your enterprise faces serious headwinds. Protect your core business and your best people—this is your priority. Cut unnecessary expenses and focus on survival. The companies and individuals who endure this season with integrity will emerge stronger.
What should I be careful about with Hexagram 23?
Do not attempt to reverse the situation by making drastic changes all at once; this will only accelerate collapse. Avoid severing all relationships in frustration—isolation will leave you vulnerable later. Keep your principles intact, even if everything else falls away.
What if Hexagram 23 has changing lines?
Read the line statement for each changing line above. With two or more changing lines, Zhu Xi’s rules decide which text leads the reading.
Original English translation by James Legge, 1882 (Public Domain). Editorial adaptation © Yijing.