Home › I Ching · 64 hexagrams › Hexagram 27
James Legge, 1899 (public domain)
Î indicates that with firm correctness there will be good fortune (in what is denoted by it). We must look at what we are seeking to nourish, and by the exercise of our thoughts seek for the proper aliment.
Î — an open mouth with strength guarding it above and below — is the hexagram of nourishment: what you take in, what you give out, and the words between. Watch your speech and ration your appetite; both are food. Be firm and correct, look well to what you are seeking to nourish, and good fortune follows. The lines are blunt. Leave your own tortoise and gape at mine — evil. Feeding below what is proper, or chasing the height — evil; ten years without action. Yet the tiger that watches unwavering falls into no error, and from the true source of nourishment, though the position be perilous, the great stream may be crossed.
Line 1
The first line, undivided, (seems to be thus addressed), “You leave your efficacious tortoise, and look at me till your lower jaw hangs down.” There will be evil.
Line 2
The second line, divided, shows one looking downwards for nourishment, which is contrary to what is proper; or seeking it from the height (above), advance towards which will lead to evil.
Line 3
The third line, divided, shows one acting contrary to the method of nourishing. However firm he may be, there will be evil. For ten years let him not take any action, (for) it will not be in any way advantageous.
Line 4
The fourth line, divided, shows one looking downwards for (the power to) nourish. There will be good fortune. Looking with a tiger’s downward unwavering glare, and with his desire that impels him to spring after spring, he will fall into no error.
Line 5
The fifth line, divided, shows one acting contrary to what is regular and proper; but if he abide in firmness, there will be good fortune. He should not, (however, try to) cross the great stream.
Line 6
The sixth line, undivided, shows him from whom comes the nourishing. His position is perilous, but there will be good fortune. It will be advantageous to cross the great stream.