Hexagram 63 既濟 - JÌ JÌ / AFTER COMPLETION
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Trigrams#
- Above: Kǎn, the Abysmal, Water
- Below: Lí, the Clinging, Fire
This hexagram represents the fully developed form of Hexagram 11, Peace (Tài). The transition from chaos to order is complete, and everything is now precisely in its proper place. The strong lines occupy strong positions, and the weak lines occupy weak positions. While this is an exceptionally favorable aspect, it also invites deep reflection. At the exact moment perfect equilibrium is achieved, any subsequent movement can cause the state of order to collapse back into decay. The single strong line that moved to the top, bringing absolute order to every detail, naturally draws the other lines to follow its course. As a result, the hexagram suddenly shifts back into Hexagram 12, Standstill (Pǐ). Therefore, this sign characterizes the conditions of a peak moment, which demands the utmost caution.
The Judgment#
Success in small matters. Perseverance furthers. Good fortune at the beginning, disorder at the end.
The transition from the old era to the new is already complete. In principle, everything is settled, and success can now only be achieved in minor details. However, maintaining the right attitude remains critical. Everything appears to run smoothly on its own accord. This easily tempts one to slacken, lose momentum, and let things drift without attending to specific details. Yet, this indifference is the root of all trouble and inevitably leads to decay. This principle illustrates the typical course of history. However, this pattern is not an inescapable law. Those who understand it can avoid its consequences through continuous constancy and vigilance.
The Image#
Water above Fire: The image of the condition After Completion. Thus the superior man takes misfortune into account and guards against it in advance.
When water hangs in a kettle over a fire, the two elements interact and generate power (as seen in the creation of steam). However, the resulting tension demands caution. If the water boils over, the fire is extinguished and its productive energy is lost. If the heat is too intense, the water evaporates into the air. These elements, though interacting to produce energy, are inherently antagonistic. Only extreme care can prevent damage. Similarly, there are periods in life where all forces are balanced and work together, making everything seem in perfect order. Only the sage recognizes the hidden dangers in such times and knows how to avert them through timely precautions.
The Individual Lines#
Nine at the beginning means:#
He brakes his wheels. He gets his tail in the water. No blame.
In times following a great transition, everything presses forward, driven by an urge for progress and development. However, this initial rushing forward is not beneficial and leads inevitably to loss and collapse by overshooting the mark. A strong character refuses to be swept up in the general frenzy and stops his course in time. While he will not remain entirely untouched by the unfortunate consequences of the general push, the impact only catches him from behind - much like a fox that has already crossed the water and only gets its tail wet. This cannot cause him essential harm because his behavior was correct.
Six on the second place means:#
The woman loses her carriage curtain. Do not run after it; on the seventh day you will get it.
When a woman rode in a carriage, a curtain shielded her from the gaze of the curious. If this curtain was lost, proceeding would violate social propriety. Applied to public life, this means that when one wishes to achieve something, the authorities fail to extend the trust required for personal protection, so to speak. Especially in times after completion, rulers can become proud and self-assured, neglecting to welcome unrecognized talent with due attention.
This situation usually breeds opportunistic striving. When trust is not offered from above, people find alternative ways to gain it and push themselves into the spotlight. The text strongly advises against such unworthy behavior: “Do not search for it.” Do not throw yourself away on the outside world. Instead, wait quietly and independently develop your personal worth. Times change. Once the six stages of the hexagram have passed, a new era begins. What truly belongs to you cannot be withheld permanently; it comes to you on its own. One must simply know how to wait.
Nine on the third place means:#
The Illustrious Ancestor disciplines the Devil’s Country. After three years he conquers it. Inferior people must not be employed.
The Illustrious Ancestor is the dynastic title of Emperor Wǔ Dīng of the Yīn dynasty. After stabilizing the internal affairs of the empire with a firm hand, he waged prolonged colonial wars to subdue the northern border regions inhabited by the Huns, from which constant raids threatened. The situation described is one where colonial expansion begins with a certain historical necessity after a period of completion, when a new power has risen and internal order is established. Prolonged struggles must generally be expected in these endeavors. However, a correct colonial policy is critical. One must not treat these hard-earned territories as a welfare institution for individuals who have made themselves impossible at home but are deemed good enough for the colonies. Such an approach ruins success from the very start. This applies to large and small enterprises alike, for expansionist drives and their inherent dangers affect every growing enterprise, not just rising states.
Six on the fourth place means:#
The finest garments turn to rags. Be careful all day long.
In times of cultural peak, disruptions occasionally occur that reveal internal flaws within society, initially causing widespread alarm. However, because the general situation remains favorable, these damages can easily be patched up and hidden from the public. Everything then fades from memory, and an illusion of untroubled peace returns. To the thinking person, however, such incidents serve as serious warnings that must not be ignored. Only by paying attention can one avert disastrous consequences.
Nine on the fifth place means:#
The neighbor in the East who slaughters an ox does not attain as much real happiness as the neighbor in the West with his small offering.
Religious attitudes are also influenced by the spiritual atmosphere of times after completion. Elaborate forms and increasingly lavish external pomp tend to replace simple, ancient rituals. Yet, this display of magnificence lacks inner sincerity. Human whim replaces conscientious alignment with the divine will. While humans look at outward appearances, the divine looks at the heart. Therefore, a massive but cold religious service does not carry as much blessing as a simple, pious offering.
Six at the top means:#
He gets his head in the water. Danger.
A final warning is added here at the conclusion. After crossing a body of water, one can only get their head wet by turning back toward the water carelessly. As long as one moves forward without looking back, this danger is avoided. However, there is a tempting urge to stop and look back at the overcome danger. Such vain self-contemplation brings no luck. It leads directly into danger, and if one does not resolve to move forward relentlessly, they will fall victim to it.
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