top of page
Writer's pictureJason Chan

#43 夬 Guai (Severing)

Updated: Mar 3















Guai, a concept that resonates with the severance of relationships, is a universal experience. 🌊🚧 Relationships are an essential part of human existence, and sometimes, willingly or unwillingly, we sever ties. It can be a way of growth, letting go of toxicity, or starting fresh.🌱 How does the universal concept of "Iching Gua Guai" resonate with you? Have you ever experienced it, and how did it impact your life?


What is this about?

The Gua Guai, which signifies the severance of relationships, is deeply rooted in history. It describes a pivotal moment of political upheaval within the Zhou administration. After the passing of King Wen, his son, King Wu, took the throne, with Wu's brother, the Duke of Zhou, assisting in governing the struggling empire. The Duke of Zhou, a reformer, often clashed with conservative leaders who opposed his ideas, leading to the severance of relationships.





Data

43.0 揚于王庭,孚號有厲。告自邑不利即戎。利有攸往

Appeal for support in the king's court. There is danger. It would be best if you warned your allies. It would be best if you warned. It is disadvantageous to declare war. It is good to communicate. These lines vividly describe the Duke of Zhou's unwavering determination and passion for his beliefs. Plead your case to your opposition before taking drastic measures. You may have to litigate if you cannot convince them to accept your opinion.


43.1 初九壯于前趾,往不勝為咎

Yang on Line 1: Keeping the toes strong is insufficient to bring victory. It is regrettable. Although the Duke of Zhou won the commoners' (toes) support, it wasn't good to sway the leaders. Similarly, you can succeed only if you win support from people of influence (a judge, high-ranking managers, senior relatives). Without their permission, the outcome will not be satisfactory.


43.2 九二惕號。莫夜有戎。勿恤

Yang on Line 2: Be on the alert. Do not slacken even at night, and there will be no accidents. When a political or legal battle is inevitable, you must remain extremely cautious and vigilant. Only then will you not err. Do not provoke your opponent(s). Your decisions carry weight, and caution is key.


43.3 九三壯于頄—有凶。君子夬夬獨行,遇雨。若濡,有慍无咎

Line 3 of the Gua Guai advises to show determination in severing relationships. It compares the honourable man who severs ties with his opponents to a person walking alone in the rain. Despite the discomfort of being soaked, the rain cannot harm him. Similarly, those with whom you've severed ties may slander your name, but their actions cannot harm your virtuous reputation.


43.4 九四臀无膚;其行次且。牽羊悔亡。聞言不信

Yang on Line 4: Having stripped the skin on your buttocks, you stroll in pain. You do not listen when someone advises you to guide the ram from behind rather than leading him from in front. You have been stripped of your authority and power. Learn from your mistakes and seek competent advice before taking action. You can't afford to be rammed by your opponents again.


43.5 九五莧陸夬夬中行,无咎

Yang on Line 5: Like removing weeds from your lawn, sever your relationship with those who oppose you. This is appropriate. There will be no mistake. Weed the evil characters from your life. Who needs to associate with people who deplete your inner spirit? This applies to a boss, a soured romantic relationship, and disagreeable friends. Do it amicably, and no harm will come.


43.6 上六无號—終有凶

Yin on Line 6: Your call for help does not yield a response. In the end, there will be a danger. You cannot secure support for your idea/ cause/ project. Try again at another time, or delay your plans and return to the drawing board.

Comments


Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Thanks for submitting!

bottom of page