Above; Thunder and Awakening
Below; Water, dangerous pit.

This hexagram represents deliverance from the dangers of the previous hexagram (39, Obstacles). The obstacles have been removed, troubles are resolved. However, deliverance is only beginning and the lines of the hexagram represent its progressive stages.

There is advantage to the south and west. Those who have no good reason to go forward will gain good fortune by turning back. Those who have a destination in view should hasten forward to be sure of success.

This hexagram represents deliverance from danger by activity. South and west are favourable, for those who go in this direction, that of retreat, will be loved by all. Turning back brings good fortune and makes it possible to follow the middle way. But those with good reason to go forward should hurry on their way. When heaven and earth are released from the clutch of winter as thunder and rain, the buds of fruit trees and every sort of plant burst open.
Thunder and rain begin, the image of deliverance. The Superior Man forgives mistakes and pardons crimes.

Line 1.

No error!
The obstacles have been removed and the barriers lifted. There is nothing to be said at this moment. There is nothing to be done except to rest and be thankful.

Line 2

Taking the yellow arrow
He kills three foxes in the field
Righteous persistence brings success.
Commentators disagree upon the precise significance of this text. The foxes are sly devious animals; the arrow is yellow, the colour of moderation and honour. Does the hunter kill three foxes with a single arrow - as one might say 'three birds with one stone' - or does he receive the arrow as recognition for his qualities?

Line 3

Carrying his baggage on his back
Yet riding in a carriage
He tempts robbers to attack him
Persistence in this course
brings nothing but shame.
This text refers to a man who has risen from poverty, in which he was compelled to carry his belongings on his back, to a new found wealth to which he is not yet used. As Confucious says; 'a man who is insolent toward those above him, and unyielding to those below him, tempts robbers to plot an attack upon him... rich ornaments worn by a virgin are an enticement to others to despoil her.'

Line 4

Release yourself with your toe
Then friends will come
In whom you can put your trust.
Here deliverance is difficult and fumbled. It is as if a man were struggling to release himself from bonds by attempting to untie them with his toes rather than his fingers. He has encumbered himself with inferior people, and must break with them before he can join with friends who truly share his beliefs.

Line 5

The Superior Man can deliver himself
And enjoys good fortune
Proving his worthiness to inferior men.
The inferior men are difficult to rid oneself of. The Superior Man must first break with them in his mind, and only then will they give up their attempts to hold him back, as they perceive that he is in earnest.

Line 6

The prince draws his bow
And slays the falcon on the high wall
Everything is favourable.
Still hindered from deliverance by the machinations of an inferior who is, however, in a position of importance, the Superior Man must make his plans, get ready the means of his release, and then act with resolve.

© 1979 Neil Powell

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