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The Meaning of Hexagram 40 in I Ching

In this entry, we explore the meaning of Hexagram 40 (Deliverance/Xie) in the I Ching, discovering how this symbol represents liberation, release from difficulty, and the wisdom of finding resolution.

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Hexagram 40: Deliverance

Hexagram 40, known as Xie (解) in Chinese, represents the principle of deliverance and release from difficulty. This hexagram is composed of the thunder trigram above and the water trigram below, creating an image of thunder and rain releasing tension, symbolizing how resolution comes after periods of difficulty.

Trigram Analysis

The upper trigram is Thunder (☳), composed of one solid line beneath two broken lines, representing movement, initiative, and release. The lower trigram is Water (☵), composed of one solid line between two broken lines, representing danger, flow, and adaptability.

When these trigrams combine, they create a metaphor for liberation. Thunder's sudden release above water's flowing movement suggests how tension can be resolved through proper action. This combination points to the importance of timing and readiness in achieving resolution.

Symbolic Representations

In nature, Hexagram 40 corresponds to a thunderstorm that clears the air and releases accumulated tension. This natural metaphor represents how resolution often comes through a decisive moment of release.

The hexagram also represents the sage who understands how to achieve liberation through proper timing and action. This human dimension emphasizes the importance of wisdom in finding resolution to difficulties.

Core Meanings and Attributes

The essence of Hexagram 40 is the power of liberation. This manifests as:

The virtue of release. The power of resolution. The wisdom of timing. The importance of readiness. The strength of deliverance.

These attributes combine to create a powerful symbol of resolution. The hexagram suggests a time when release from difficulty and finding resolution are essential.

Line Meanings

Each line in Hexagram 40 represents a different aspect of deliverance:

The first line shows liberation through the tail, suggesting careful beginnings.

The second line indicates hunting in the field, representing active pursuit of resolution.

The third line shows the chariot losing its wheel, warning about hasty action.

The fourth line demonstrates releasing the big toe, indicating fundamental change.

The fifth line shows the superior person's deliverance, representing wise resolution.

The sixth line reveals the prince shooting at a hawk, suggesting precise action.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Hexagram 40 often appears when there is a need for resolution or release from difficulty. It suggests a time when proper timing and action are crucial. The hexagram encourages:

Recognizing opportunities. Taking timely action. Finding resolution. Maintaining readiness. Achieving liberation.

Relationships with Other Hexagrams

Hexagram 40 has a special relationship with Hexagram 39 (Obstruction), as they represent complementary aspects of difficulty. While Hexagram 39 focuses on facing obstacles, Hexagram 40 deals with finding release from them.

The hexagram also relates to others that share its trigrams or themes of resolution and release, providing context for understanding different aspects of deliverance.

Modern Interpretation

In contemporary usage, Hexagram 40 often appears in situations requiring resolution or release from difficult circumstances. It can indicate:

A time for action. The need for release. An opportunity for resolution. The importance of timing. A reminder of readiness.

Meditative Implications

As a meditation focus, Hexagram 40 offers insights into the nature of resolution and release. It invites contemplation of:

The process of liberation. The role of timing. The proper path to resolution. The balance between action and patience. The way of deliverance.

Historical Context

In traditional Chinese thought, Hexagram 40 was associated with the concept of finding resolution and achieving release from difficulty. This connection emphasizes its relevance to both personal liberation and social harmony.

The hexagram was also linked to the importance of proper timing in achieving resolution, highlighting how wise action serves both individual and collective needs.

Summary

Hexagram 40 represents the principle of deliverance and resolution, manifesting as the wisdom of finding release from difficulty. Its combination of thunder and water trigrams creates a powerful image of liberating action, while its line meanings offer guidance on navigating various aspects of resolution.

Understanding this hexagram provides insights into the nature of liberation and the proper approach to finding resolution, while its practical applications offer guidance for contemporary situations requiring release from difficulty. Whether appearing in divination or serving as a focus for meditation, Hexagram 40 reminds us that resolution comes through understanding both the moment and the means of deliverance.


Next Hexagram: Hexagram 41.

Previous Hexagram: Hexagram 39.

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