I Ching hexagram
21. Biting Through
噬嗑Shì Kè
Fire over Thunder
Also called Discernment, Gnawing, The Symbol of Mastication and Punishment by Pressing and Squeezing, Gnawing Bite, Severing, Chewing, Punishment, Reformation, Reform, Differentiation, Discrimination, Making a Distinction, Getting the message "Something which should be, or has to be bitten through. This is essentially the legal hexagram. When asking about a man's intentions, he is probably married." -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 21, Biting Through (噬嗑 Shì Kè) is formed by Fire over Thunder. It is also known as Discernment, Gnawing, The Symbol of Mastication and Punishment by Pressing and Squeezing, Gnawing Bite, Severing, Chewing, Punishment, Reformation. The judgment is James Legge. The six lines are R.L. Wing — the same texts used in a reading on this site.
The judgment
James Legge
Success is found in Discernment. The restrictions of the law bring advantage.
The six lines
R.L. Wing · line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yang
Since this is only your first departure from the right path, only a mild punishment is forthcoming. This should serve the purpose of early Reform.
- Line 2Yin
Punishment and retribution come swiftly and thoroughly to the person who continues in wrong behavior. Even though it may seem overly severe, it will effectively bring about Reform. Finally, there is no mistake in this.
- Line 3Yin
You lack sufficient power and authority to bring about Reform. Your attempts meet with indifference, and you may feel humiliated at your ineffective actions. Yet Reform is necessary, and therefore your endeavors are justified.
- Line 4Yang
The task facing you is indeed difficult. That which you must overcome is in a powerful position. Be firm and persevering once you begin. Good results come only by being alert and exercising continuous effort.
- Line 5Yin
Even though there are few alternatives, a decision is difficult to make. Once you choose the course you will take, do not waver from your decision. Remain aware of the dangers and in this way you will surmount them.
- Line 6Yang
A person who cannot recognize his own shortcomings will drift farther and farther from the path. A person who is no longer on the path cannot understand the warnings of others. The original text states: "There will be evil.”
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 21 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings.