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Biting Through

噬嗑 (Shì Kè)

Hexagram #21

Hexagram Structure

Yang Line

Yin Line

Yang Line

Yin Line

Yang Line

Upper Trigram

Fire

Lower Trigram

Thunder

Core Essence

Keywords

justicedecisionbreakthroughresolution

Meaning

Represents the need for decisive action to overcome obstacles and establish justice.

Guidance

Take decisive action to resolve conflicts. Sometimes firm measures are necessary.

Classical Texts

Judgment

Biting Through has success. It is favorable to let justice be administered.

噬嗑：亨。利用狱。

Image

Thunder and lightning: the image of Biting Through. Thus the ancient kings made firm the laws through clearly defined penalties.

雷电，噬嗑；先王以明罚敕法。

Hexagram Story & Origin

The Biting Through hexagram symbolizes maintaining justice through punishment. 'Shi Ke' means biting together, like upper and lower jaws biting food. Ancient Legalist thought emphasized strict laws and severe punishments; Han Feizi's rule of law concept embodies the spirit of the Shi Ke hexagram. But the Shi Ke hexagram also reminds us: punishment is only a means, the purpose is to maintain justice. In modern society, we must find balance between rule of law and human compassion, having both principles and warmth.

Detailed Analysis

**Hexagram Composition:** Upper Trigram: Fire Lower Trigram: Thunder **Judgment Analysis:** Biting Through has success. It is favorable to let justice be administered. 噬嗑：亨。利用狱。 **Image Wisdom:** Thunder and lightning: the image of Biting Through. Thus the ancient kings made firm the laws through clearly defined penalties. 雷电，噬嗑；先王以明罚敕法。 **Modern Application:** In today's society, the wisdom of Biting Through can guide us: • Take decisive action to resolve conflicts. Sometimes firm measures are necessary. • Keywords: justice, decision, breakthrough, resolution • Core Concept: Represents the need for decisive action to overcome obstacles and establish justice.

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