Jie
Judgment
節. 亨. 苦節, 不可貞.
It will prosper, if thrifty is regarded as suffering, it is impossible.
Interpretation
The Jeol Hexagram has Gam (Water) in the upper trigram and Tae (Lake) in the lower trigram. The image of this hexagram shows water above a lake. When water is above a lake, it is important to build a dam to prevent the water from overflowing and to conserve it. Jeol means to save or to be frugal.
In the commentary, Jeol refers to being frugal or simple, and Geom refers to the idea of simplicity. Gojeol means to consider frugality as a form of suffering. Bulga-jeong (not applicable) is used in the commentary to indicate that certain actions should not be taken.
The commentary suggests that if frugality is seen as suffering, it will lead to extravagance. If a noble person indulges in luxury, it will harm the state; if a petty person does the same, it will bring ruin to their family.
初九 不出戶庭,无咎
Initial Nine: Wet the tail, no harm.
Hojeong refers to staying within the house. This indicates avoiding unnecessary risks. A person consulting the oracle and receiving this line is currently in a situation where they should stay home and avoid venturing out. If they do leave, obstacles will arise, so they should remain cautious.
九二 不出門庭,凶
Nine Second: Wet the tail, beneficial.
Remaining indoors and avoiding stepping outside reflects the value of simplicity and restraint. Staying in a controlled environment prevents the loss of opportunities and keeps the person from making a mistake.
六三 不節若,則嗟若,无咎
Six Third: Not complete, disaster. Beneficial for crossing large rivers.
The term "Yak" refers to frugality, and "Cha" means to lament. The person has failed to practice frugality and now laments their situation. However, by reflecting on their past actions, they will correct their mistakes. The person asking about the hexagram is currently in a situation of regret but will ultimately avoid significant misfortune.
六四 安節,亨
Nine Fourth: Resolve good fortune, no regret, thunder using the ghost side, after three years, rewards from a great nation.
Frugality ensures prosperity. The task at hand will prosper in all aspects.
九五 甘節,吉,往有尙
Six Fifth: Resolve good fortune, no regret, the light of the wise man, trust, good fortune.
Embracing frugality sweetly brings natural fortune and blessings to your way of life. The task at hand will surely reap rewards, as a frugal habit becomes your strength and joy.
上六 苦節,貞凶,悔亡
Top Nine: Trusting in wine, no harm, wetting the head, trust, lost this moment.
Deeming frugality painful and chasing luxury leads to ruin, though repentance clears regret. The task at hand risks misfortune through vanity, but remorse restores faultlessness.