43. Breakthrough
Guài — Breakthrough / Resolution
Trigrams
The Judgment
Breakthrough. One must resolutely make the matter known at the court of the king. It must be announced truthfully. Danger. One must notify one's own city.
The Image
Lake above heaven — the water rises so high it must overflow. Five yang lines are about to displace the last yin line. The breakthrough is imminent.
Interpretation
The tension has built to the point where breakthrough is inevitable. Five strong forces have gathered against one remaining weakness, and the resolution is at hand. But the hexagram warns: be truthful, not forceful. Announce the truth publicly rather than using violence. The breakthrough succeeds through moral clarity and openness, not through aggression. Even in victory, remain on guard.
Advice
The breakthrough is near. Speak truth publicly and clearly. Don't use force where honesty will serve. But be aware that even after the breakthrough, vigilance is needed. One last obstacle remains — address it with integrity.
Consult the I Ching for your own question
Cast the Coins