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I Ching 23

Hexagram 23 – Bō (剝) | Splitting Apart

Judgment (Overall Meaning)​

Bō represents decline, decay, and the breaking apart of something that was once strong. This is a time of loss, vulnerability, or external pressures weakening your position. However, destruction is also part of nature’s cycle—what falls away creates space for renewal. The wise person does not resist inevitable decline but prepares for the change that will follow.

Image (Symbolism)​

A mountain rests on the earth, but its foundation is eroding. This symbolizes instability—something that once seemed secure is now weakening. Just as a crumbling structure cannot stand forever, situations that have run their course must be allowed to fall.

Line-by-Line Interpretation​

(Each changing line explores different aspects of decline and the path forward)

  1. The beginning of erosion – Small losses signal greater changes ahead.
  2. Structural weakness appears – Something essential is crumbling; acknowledge it.
  3. Loss deepens, but survival is possible – Be cautious, but know this will pass.
  4. Holding on too tightly worsens the fall – Accept change rather than resisting it.
  5. A shift is near – Even in decay, new possibilities are forming.
  6. The old must fully collapse – Only by letting go can renewal begin.

Key Themes of Hexagram 23​

  • The Cycle of Decline – All things have a lifespan; endings are part of life.
  • Letting Go and Accepting Change – Fighting against loss only deepens suffering.
  • Preparing for Renewal – This phase will pass, leading to something new.

If you receive Hexagram 23, life is signaling an ending or necessary breakdown. Do not fear it—accept and prepare for what comes next. Let go of what no longer serves you, and trust that from this loss, renewal will emerge.