21. Biting Through (Biting Through)
Like teeth closing to bite through an obstacle, decisive action is needed. When you hit resistance, clear it away firmly and promptly — hesitation only invites complications.
Plain-Language Translation: Prevailing — favorable for administering justice.
Plain-Language Translation: When something lodges between the jaws, this is Shike ("biting through"), and biting through it brings prevailing. The firm and yielding lines stand apart, movement within paired with clarity without, thunder and lightning joining to make their power manifest. The yielding line holds the center and moves upward; though its position is not quite fitting, it still favors the administration of justice.
Plain-Language Translation: Thunder and lightning strike together, picturing decisive judgment; the ancient kings clarified punishments and set laws in order.
Modern Application Guide
Career: When you hit an obstacle, deal with it decisively — dragging it out only makes it thornier.
Relationships: A conflict in the relationship needs to be faced head-on and resolved — avoiding it just lets resentment build.
Wealth: If you've been going back and forth on whether to cut a financial loss or clean something up, this hexagram suggests the hesitation itself may be what's costing you.
Health: If you've noticed a small warning sign from your body lately, this hexagram is a reminder not to assume it'll just go away on its own.
Line-by-Line Detail
履校灭趾，不行也
Things are just getting underway; strength is still building, and the moment to show it openly hasn't arrived.
噬肤灭鼻，乘刚也
Sitting in the inner middle position, a gentle, cooperative approach suits best — this is a supporting role, not a leading one.
遇毒，位不当也
You're at a transition point between inner and outer, feeling soft amid a shifting situation — a little unease is natural here.
利艰贞吉，未光也
You're drawing close to the center of power or authority — a sensitive spot where every word and move gets noticed.
贞厉无咎，得当也
You hold the central position but carry it gently — leaning on capable people and staying open to good advice actually works in your favor.
何校灭耳，聪不明也
You've reached the peak or the tail end of this situation — success at its height can turn, so stay alert even now.