The Meaning of Hexagram 21 in the I Ching

Hexagram 21: Biting Through

Hexagram 21, known as Shike (噬嗑) in Chinese, represents the principle of decisive action and justice. This hexagram is composed of the fire trigram above and the thunder trigram below, creating an image of lightning and fire combining, symbolizing how powerful forces come together to break through obstacles.

Trigram Analysis

The upper trigram is Fire (☲), composed of a solid line between two broken lines, representing clarity, illumination, and judgment. The lower trigram is Thunder (☳), composed of one solid line beneath two broken lines, representing decisive action, movement, and initiative.

When these trigrams combine, they create a powerful metaphor for breaking through obstacles. Fire's illuminating clarity above thunder's decisive action suggests how clear judgment combined with forceful action can overcome hindrances. This combination points to the importance of firm resolution in dealing with difficulties.

Symbolic Representations

In nature, Hexagram 21 corresponds to the action of biting through tough obstacles, like teeth breaking through an obstruction. This physical metaphor represents the importance of persistence and decisive action in overcoming resistance.

The hexagram also represents the judge who must make clear decisions and enforce justice. This human dimension emphasizes the importance of clarity and firmness in addressing difficulties and maintaining order.

Core Meanings and Attributes

The essence of Hexagram 21 is the power of decisive action and justice. This manifests as:

The necessity of firm resolution. The importance of clear judgment. The need for decisive action. The value of persistence. The power of breaking through.

These attributes combine to create a powerful symbol of overcoming obstacles. The hexagram suggests a time when clear judgment and decisive action are essential for progress.

Line Meanings

Each line in Hexagram 21 represents a different aspect of breaking through:

The first line shows wearing shackles on the feet, suggesting the initial restraint before action.

The second line indicates biting through tender meat, representing dealing with easier obstacles first.

The third line shows biting on old dried meat, warning about encountering unexpected difficulties.

The fourth line demonstrates biting on dried gristly meat, indicating persistent effort against tough resistance.

The fifth line shows biting on dried lean meat, representing rewards through persistent effort.

The sixth line warns about wearing a wooden collar, suggesting the consequences of not addressing problems properly.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Hexagram 21 often appears when there is a need for decisive action or clear judgment. It suggests a time when firm resolution and persistence are crucial. The hexagram encourages:

Making clear decisions. Taking decisive action. Maintaining persistence. Breaking through obstacles. Establishing justice.

Relationships with Other Hexagrams

Hexagram 21 has a special relationship with Hexagram 22 (Grace), as they represent complementary aspects of dealing with situations. While Hexagram 21 focuses on decisive action, Hexagram 22 deals with elegant presentation.

The hexagram also relates to others that share its trigrams or themes of judgment and action, providing context for understanding different aspects of breaking through obstacles.

Modern Interpretation

In contemporary usage, Hexagram 21 often appears in situations requiring decisive action, clear judgment, or the resolution of difficulties. It can indicate:

A time for firm action. The need for clear decisions. An opportunity for breakthrough. The importance of persistence. A reminder to maintain resolution.

Meditative Implications

As a meditation focus, Hexagram 21 offers insights into the nature of obstacles and resolution. It invites contemplation of:

The process of breaking through. The role of clarity in action. The proper use of force. The balance between judgment and action. The path of resolution.

Historical Context

In traditional Chinese thought, Hexagram 21 was associated with the concept of justice and the proper administration of law. This connection emphasizes its relevance to both personal conduct and social order.

The hexagram was also linked to the importance of clear judgment and decisive action in maintaining order, highlighting how firm resolution serves both individual and collective needs.

Summary

Hexagram 21 represents the principle of breaking through obstacles and establishing justice, manifesting as the wisdom of clear judgment and decisive action. Its combination of fire and thunder trigrams creates a powerful image of illuminated force, while its line meanings offer guidance on navigating various aspects of resolution.

Understanding this hexagram provides insights into the nature of obstacles and the proper approach to overcoming them, while its practical applications offer guidance for contemporary situations requiring decisive action and clear judgment. Whether appearing in divination or serving as a focus for meditation, Hexagram 21 reminds us that breaking through obstacles requires both clear perception and firm resolution.

---

Next Hexagram: Hexagram 22.

Previous Hexagram: Hexagram 20.