既濟
After Completion
Après l'Accomplissement
Jì Jì
Upper trigram
Water
Lower trigram
Fire
The Judgment
After Completion. Success in small matters. Perseverance is advantageous. At the beginning, good fortune; at the end, disorder.
The Image
Water over fire: the image of the condition After Completion. Thus the superior man reflects upon misfortune and takes precautions against it in advance.
Meaning
Completion, perfect order, equilibrium attained. All is in its place, yet this perfection is fragile. The moment demands vigilance to maintain what has been accomplished.
The six lines
Line 1 (bottom)
He brakes his wheels. He wets his tail. No blame.
Line 2
The woman loses the curtain of her carriage. Do not pursue it. On the seventh day you will obtain it.
Line 3
The Illustrious Ancestor disciplines the Devil's Country. After three years he conquers it. Inferior men should not be employed.
Line 4
The most beautiful garments turn into rags. Be cautious all day long.
Line 5
The eastern neighbor who slaughters an ox does not attain as much true happiness as the western neighbor with his small offering.
Line 6 (top)
He wets his head. Danger.