Hexagram 63, Line 1

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line marks the very beginning of the state of "After Completion." A great undertaking has just been successfully concluded, and everything is in its proper place. The strong, energetic yang line at the bottom feels an initial, powerful impulse to push forward into the next thing. However, the wisdom of this hexagram lies in preservation, not expansion. The image "drags his wheels" signifies a conscious and necessary act of braking. It is a deliberate slowing of momentum. This caution is essential because in a state of perfect order, any unchecked forward movement can lead to imbalance and decay. The second image, "he wets his tail," refers to the allegory of the fox crossing the stream. The fox has made it all the way across, but at the very last moment, its tail dips into the water. This represents a minor mishap, a small oversight, or a lingering issue from the past effort. It is not a disaster, but an annoyance that serves as a reminder. Because the primary action is one of prudent caution ("dragging the wheels"), this small setback ("wetting the tail") does not lead to a major fault. Therefore, the judgment is "No blame." The wisdom here is to accept that perfect, seamless transitions are rare. It is better to be cautious and deal with a small, manageable issue than to be reckless and risk the entire success.

Guidance for Action

You have just achieved a significant success or reached a point of stability. The temptation is to use this momentum to immediately launch into a new venture. This line strongly advises against that. Your immediate task is to consolidate your gains and secure your position. Apply the brakes. Review the situation carefully, check for any loose ends or overlooked details (the "wet tail"), and address them now. Do not be discouraged by minor hitches or annoyances that appear at this stage; they are a normal part of concluding a major effort. Your priority is to maintain the new order you have created, not to disrupt it with premature action. Be humble, vigilant, and patient.

For Love & Relationships

A relationship has just reached a new, stable phase—perhaps you've made a commitment, moved in together, or resolved a major conflict. There is a sense of completion and harmony. This line warns against complacency or rushing into the next "big step" (e.g., marriage, children) without first settling into the current reality. The initial excitement might make you want to push forward, but it's wiser to "drag the wheels" and enjoy the new level of intimacy you've achieved. Small, old issues or habits may resurface (the "wet tail"), but these are not signs of failure. They are simply things to be managed with patience and care as you both adjust. Focus on strengthening the foundation you have just built.

For Career & Business

You have successfully completed a major project, secured a promotion, or finalized an important deal. The energy is high, and you or your team may be eager to tackle the next challenge. This line counsels you to pause. Instead of launching a new initiative, your focus should be on the post-project phase: documenting what you've learned, ensuring all administrative tasks are complete, and solidifying the benefits of your success. You may discover a minor flaw, an overlooked piece of paperwork, or a small client complaint (the "wet tail"). Do not ignore it. Address it calmly. This act of consolidation is not a lack of ambition; it is the professional wisdom that ensures long-term stability and builds a solid reputation.

For Financial Matters

You have just realized a significant financial gain, perhaps through a successful investment, a bonus, or the sale of an asset. The natural urge might be to immediately reinvest this capital into another "hot" opportunity to keep the momentum going. This line is a clear warning to "drag the wheels." Secure your profits. Move the funds to a safe, stable position and take time to assess the market and your overall strategy. You might find there are unexpected taxes or fees (the "wet tail"), which are minor but must be managed. Resisting the impulse for quick, continued action is not a sign of fear, but of financial prudence. Your goal now is to protect what you have gained, not to risk it immediately.