Hexagram 23
Splitting Apart
剥 (Bō)
Mountain over Earth
The image is of a mountain resting on the earth, being steadily eroded and worn down from below. This hexagram symbolizes a time of disintegration, decline, and decay. The structure shows five yin lines ascending, stripping away the single yang line at the top. It represents the collapse of old forms and the rise of dark, yielding forces. This is a period of adversity and loss, where aggressive action is fruitless. The focus must be on adaptation and survival, protecting the seed of potential that remains for future renewal.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (彖传)
This is a clear warning against initiating new projects or taking forceful action. The prevailing energy is one of decay, and any attempt to push forward will meet with failure and accelerate the loss. The wise course of action is to be still, adapt to the unfavorable circumstances, and conserve energy. This is a time for retreat and observation, not for advance.
The Image (象传)
When the foundation (the people, the base) is eroding, the structure above (leadership) is in peril. A wise leader understands this. Instead of becoming more demanding, they become more generous and supportive to those below, strengthening the foundation to prevent a total collapse. It is a time to foster goodwill and secure one's own position by ensuring the well-being of the base.
Interpretation & Guidance
When you receive Hexagram 23, you are facing a period of decline. A situation, relationship, or structure in your life is falling apart. Resisting this process is futile and will only bring misfortune. The guidance is to let go. Accept the loss and adapt to the changing circumstances. This is not a sign of permanent failure, but a necessary part of a cycle. By letting the old structure decay, you make way for something new to be born. The single strong line at the top symbolizes a seed of hope. Protect this seed by remaining quiet and waiting for the tide to turn.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Six at the Beginning (初六)
Bottom line - Yin
"The leg of the bed is split. Those who persevere are destroyed. Misfortune."
The decay has begun at the very foundation. Dark influences are starting to take hold. Clinging to the old way or trying to stand firm at this stage is a mistake; it will only lead to your own downfall. The correct response is to recognize the danger and withdraw.
Six in the Second Place (六二)
Second line - Yin
"The frame of the bed is split. Those who persevere are destroyed. Misfortune."
The erosion has advanced beyond the foundation and is now attacking the main structure. The danger is more apparent. The warning is the same and even more urgent: persistence in the face of this decay leads to ruin. It is imperative to let go.
Six in the Third Place (六三)
Third line - Yin
"He splits with them. No blame."
In a time of widespread decay, you recognize the negative influences around you and make a conscious choice to separate yourself from them. By breaking ties with the destructive elements, you maintain your integrity and avoid blame, even as things collapse around you.
Six in the Fourth Place (六四)
Fourth line - Yin
"The bed is split up to the skin. Misfortune."
The disaster has reached a personal and unavoidable level. The decay is no longer external but affects you directly and deeply. This is a time of immediate and personal misfortune, where loss is imminent.
Six in the Fifth Place (六五)
Fifth line - Yin
"A string of fish. Favor through the court ladies. Everything is favorable."
At the peak of decay, an unexpected opportunity arises. By leading the other yin lines (like a school of fish) and submitting to the last remaining positive influence (the yang line at the top), you can find a way to navigate the crisis. Through skillful adaptation and alignment with the good that remains, a favorable outcome is possible.
Nine at the Top (上九)
Top line - Yang
"The large fruit is uneaten. The superior person obtains a carriage. The house of the inferior person is split apart."
The cycle of decay is complete. The old, corrupt structure has collapsed. For the inferior person who clung to it, this is total ruin. But for the superior person who weathered the storm, the "large fruit"—the seed of a new beginning—remains. They are rewarded with support ("a carriage") to start the cycle of renewal.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
This hexagram signals that a relationship is in a state of serious decline or is ending. The foundation has eroded, and trying to force things to stay together will only cause more pain. The wisest course is to accept the situation and let go with as much grace as possible. This painful process of 'splitting apart' is necessary to clear the way for future happiness, whether alone or with a new partner.
Career & Business (事业)
Your current project, job, or even company is facing collapse. The structure is unsound. Do not invest more time, energy, or money into a failing venture. This is a time to cut your losses, retreat, and protect your own resources. Look for ways to adapt and survive. By letting the old situation fall apart, you free yourself to find a new, more stable opportunity when the time is right.
Health & Wellness (健康)
This hexagram points to a period of declining energy and vitality. Your body's reserves are being depleted. This is a strong signal to stop, rest, and let your body recover. Pushing yourself now could lead to a serious breakdown. Strip away non-essential activities and focus on gentle, restorative practices. Let your body heal.
Financial Matters (财运)
This is a time of financial loss and decline. Investments will fail, and income may dry up. It is crucial to avoid new financial risks and to conserve what you have. Do not try to fight the trend. Liquidate failing assets if you can, reduce spending, and wait for a more favorable economic climate. This is about survival, not growth.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
Growth comes from a painful but necessary process of shedding old parts of yourself. Your ego, long-held beliefs, or self-image are being stripped away. Do not cling to these old identities. Allow this disintegration to happen. It is a purification process that, while difficult, will ultimately leave you with a more authentic and resilient core, ready for a new phase of life.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
The time is wrong for action. Stop, wait, and observe. Do not start anything new. Do not fight the decline. Your task is to adapt, conserve your strength, and let go of what is collapsing. Be patient. After the stripping is complete, a time of renewal will follow (Hexagram 24, Return). Your wisdom lies in waiting for that moment.
