ChineseStudy

64. Wei Ji | Before Completion

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English translation

Wei Ji / Before Completion: Progress is shown, but only partially. The fox nearly crosses yet wets its tail, and no course is especially advantageous.

This is the judgment of Wei Ji (Before Completion), setting the overall situation and guiding principle for the whole hexagram. the warning against going forward suggests restraint rather than expansion.

First Six: its tail gets wet, regret or difficulty.

The first line is the lowest position, where a situation is just beginning and its strength is still forming. “regret” or “difficulty” points to trouble caused by an ill-measured action.

Second Nine: dragging back the wheel, uprightness is auspicious.

The second line often suggests a central and emerging position: no longer hidden, but not yet in command. “constancy” means holding to what is correct over time; “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction.

Third Six: This is an unfinished state. Marching onward is dangerous, though crossing a great river can be inauspiciously necessary.

The third line stands at the end of the lower trigram, where effort and pressure increase and caution becomes important. “crossing the great river” suggests undertaking a difficult but meaningful passage; “misfortune” marks serious risk.

Fourth Nine: Steady correctness brings good fortune and removes regret. Firm action is used against Guifang, and after three years comes reward in a great state.

The fourth line enters the upper trigram and marks a threshold between holding back and advancing. “constancy” means holding to what is correct over time; “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction; “regret” or “difficulty” points to trouble caused by an ill-measured action.

Fifth Six: Steadfast uprightness is fortunate and blame-free, a true sign of noble radiance. Sincerity is present, bringing good fortune.

The fifth line is near the honored position, where influence can be exercised if power remains aligned with what is right. “sincerity” points to trustworthiness and inner confidence; “constancy” means holding to what is correct over time; “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction; “regret” or “difficulty” points to trouble caused by an ill-measured action.

Top Nine: With sincere intention in ritual drinking, there is no blame. If the head becomes wet, that sincerity is lost.

The top line is the end of the hexagram's movement, often warning about excess, culmination, or the need to change course. “sincerity” points to trustworthiness and inner confidence; “no blame” means avoiding fault, not necessarily winning great success.

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