Hexagram 40: Deliverance

 

"The Future: 2020"

By James Byrd

Hexagram 40: Deliverance

I. The Oracle

A. Hexagram 40: Xie or Taking Apart

Hexagram 40, also known as Xie, translates to "Taking Apart." It also carries the meanings of "Deliverance" and "Untangled." The lower trigram associated with this hexagram is Kan, symbolizing a gorge or water, while the upper trigram is Zhen, representing shake or thunder.

B. The Judgment

1. Deliverance:
   • Movement towards the southwest brings progress.
   • If there is no longer a path to follow, returning brings good fortune.
2. If the path is still open:
   • Hastening your actions will bring good fortune.

C. The Image

1. Thunder and rain set in:
   • This is the image of Deliverance.
   • Thus, the superior person pardons mistakes and forgives misdeeds.

II. My Interpretation

A. "Deliverance"

In the realm of spiritual journey, space itself can possess a malevolent character, with "demons" manifesting as both spatial realms and personal challenges. Overcoming these obstacles equates to traversing through them, breaking their boundaries, and thus, liberating oneself from their influence. This concept is beautifully captured by H. Jonas in The Gnostic Religion.

B. Release

If you have an important event on the horizon, consider delaying it if it's not of utmost importance. However, if taking action could significantly enhance your situation, then act swiftly.

The image of thunder under rain encourages bravery—facing danger head-on. If the stakes are high and completion of the task is necessary, sometimes it is wiser to turn back.

Understand that sometimes no action is required. This is akin to softening a hard stance against a serious misdeed. The act of forgiving and letting go can prevent hardship and misunderstandings.

This process can be seen as a form of "Divine Deliverance." It reflects a self-actualized state where a person, grounded and defined, sees progress towards inner goals, ultimately leading to satisfaction and fulfillment.