Deliverance (Xiè)

Judgment

解：利西南，无所往，其来复吉，有攸往，夙吉。

Plain Meaning：Deliverance: the southwest furthers; if nothing to do, return brings fortune; if something to do, early action brings fortune.

Image (Great Commentary)

雷雨作，解；君子以赦过宥罪。

Line Texts

• 初六无咎。

  No blame—danger just relieved.

• 九二田获三狐，得黄矢，贞吉。

  Catching three foxes in the hunt, gaining a yellow arrow—steadfast fortune.

• 六三负且乘，致寇至，贞吝。

  Burdened yet riding—inviting robbers; persisting brings humiliation.

• 九四解而拇，朋至斯孚。

  Loosen the ties to the petty, and true friends arrive.

• 六五君子维有解，吉，有孚于小人。

  The noble frees himself—fortune; proven by the petty withdrawing.

• 上六公用射隼于高墉之上，获之，无不利。

  The prince shoots the hawk on the high wall and takes it—nothing that does not further.

Symbolism

Thunder and rain: tensions released, troubles dissolved.

Life Lesson

Once relieved, forgive faults and settle matters promptly.

Modern Application

After a crisis eases, clear risks and mend ties—sooner rather than later.

Words of Caution

Holding what you can’t bear invites trouble.