First Six (初六)
"No error."
At the threshold of release, you need only prepare yourself for what comes next. Patience and readiness are enough.
Hexagram 40
Xiè 解
Upper · Zhèn (Thunder) | Lower · Kǎn (Water)
Release · resolution · forgiveness · grace · swift action · new beginning
What does Hexagram 40 mean?
Hexagram 40, Xiè (解), is about release, resolution, and forgiveness. This hexagram marks the dissolution of obstacles and the arrival of clarity.
The Judgment
"Advantage in the south-west; if no further action be needed, return brings good fortune."
This hexagram marks the dissolution of obstacles and the arrival of clarity. When difficulty lifts, the wise course is to act decisively if opportunity calls, yet refrain from unnecessary change if the moment calls for stillness. Forgiveness and grace now open pathways forward.
The Lines
Second Nine (九二)
"In the hunt, three foxes are caught; golden arrows are obtained. Firm correctness brings good fortune."
Remove the obstacles that have hindered progress, and genuine rewards follow. Small hindrances dissolve when you act with clarity and purpose.
Third Six (六三)
"Bearing a burden yet riding in a carriage; robbers are tempted to attack. Correctness brings regret."
Overreaching beyond your station invites trouble. Stay true to your place and circumstances; ambition without foundation courts disaster.
Fourth Nine (九四)
"Loosen the constraint. Friends arrive, and trust is established."
Breaking free from limiting bonds allows true companions to draw near. Release what binds you to the small-minded, and genuine fellowship emerges.
Fifth Six (六五)
"The superior man alone can resolve this; good fortune. Even the small-minded show trust in him."
When the wise lead with generosity, all respond. Your example of forgiveness and grace transforms those around you.
Sixth Six (上六)
"The prince shoots the hawk from the high wall and strikes it. All proves advantageous."
Act decisively to remove what truly threatens. Swift, clear action against genuine obstacles brings complete success.
Hexagram 40 FAQ
What does Hexagram 40 mean for career?
Difficulty is lifting, and new opportunity approaches. Act quickly when the moment calls, but do not force change where none is needed. This is an ideal time to leave behind old limitations and step into fresh possibility with confidence.
What does Hexagram 40 mean for love and relationships?
Misunderstanding and tension are dissolving. Reach out first with forgiveness; your willingness to release old grievances invites genuine reconciliation. The courage to apologize and let go of resentment deepens bonds and restores trust.
What does Hexagram 40 mean for study and personal growth?
Concepts that seemed opaque suddenly become clear. Absorb this new understanding swiftly and fully. Do not dwell on past struggles or failures; instead, embrace the fresh clarity now available to you and build forward from here.
What does Hexagram 40 mean for business and money?
Business obstacles are clearing, and favorable conditions return. Make decisions promptly and act on them. Settle old contracts and practices that no longer serve; a clean break from the past creates space for genuine new ventures.
What should I be careful about with Hexagram 40?
Do not mistake release for permission to abandon caution. Greed or overconfidence in this fortunate moment will create new difficulties. Learn from what has passed, remain humble, and act with wisdom rather than mere impulse.
What if Hexagram 40 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.