Hexagram 21
Biting Through
Shi He · Decisive clarity
Overview
This phase invites clarity and asks you to notice what is ready to mature without forcing the outcome.
Relationship
In relationships, Biting Through points toward honest attention, softer assumptions, and communication that leaves space for another person's reality.
Career
For career questions, this pattern favors momentum paired with practical next steps, especially where the path has felt emotionally crowded.
Finance
A period of patient saving is wiser than a bold but uncertain move.
Health
What are you carrying in your body that was never yours to hold?
Advice
Move with discipline and choose the next step that keeps your values visible.
Avoid
Avoid mistaking resistance for wisdom; sometimes movement is the answer.
Reflection
Where are you placing certainty in outcomes that are not yours to determine?
The Six Lines
Explore each line's meaning and interpretation.
初九
Chu Jiu
His feet are fastened in the stocks, so that his toes disappear. No blame.
二六
Er Liu
Bites through tender meat, so that the nose disappears. No blame.
三九
San Jiu
Bites on old dried meat and strikes on something poisonous. Small humiliation. No blame.
四六
Si Liu
Bites on dried gristly meat. Receives metal arrows. It is favorable to be mindful of difficulties and to be persevering. Good fortune!
五六
Wu Liu
Bites on dried lean meat. Receives yellow gold. Persevering, be mindful of danger. No blame.
上九
Shang Jiu
His neck is fastened in the wooden cangue, so that his ears disappear. Misfortune!