Hexagram Analysis

I Ching Hexagram 49 : 革 Ko / Revolution (Molting)

The hexagram's Chinese character originally referred to an animal's shedding fur, a natural process that occurs annually. This term was later applied to political upheavals, or "moltings," that result in significant changes in government. The hexagram is composed of the same two trigrams as K'uei, OPPOSITION (38), which represent the younger daughters, Li and Tui. However, in this hexagram, the younger daughter is above, resulting in a conflict of opposing forces, like fire and water (lake), each striving to overcome the other. This conflict gives rise to the concept of revolution.

The Judgment

"Transformation. On any given day, one's beliefs are validated. Ultimate triumph. Advancement achieved through persistence. Regret fades away."

Undertaking a political revolution is a weighty matter that should only be considered as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted. Not everyone is suited for this task, but only those who have earned the trust of the people and are able to discern the right time to act. It is crucial that they proceed with wisdom and care, so as to avoid causing harm and instead bring joy to the people by enlightening them. They must be motivated solely by the desire to serve the common good and alleviate the suffering of the people. Only then will they have no regrets. As time passes, the needs and demands of society evolve, much like the changing of the seasons. Just as there are cycles of growth and decay in nature, so too are there cycles of transformation in the life of nations and peoples. These transformations are necessary to meet the challenges of the present and ensure a better future for all.

The Image

The concept of Revolution is depicted by "Fire in the lake," and it is the responsibility of the wise individual to organize the calendar.

The clash of fire and lake, one below and the other above, results in their mutual destruction. Similarly, every year witnesses a battle between the powers of light and darkness, culminating in the changing of seasons, allowing individuals to prepare themselves for the varying demands of time.