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______ Hexagram Twenty-One:  
       Shih Ho / Biting Through


The merciless, searing judgement 
of Lightning
fulfills the warning prophecies
of distant Thunder:
Sage rulers
preserved justice
by clearly defining
the laws,
and by delivering
the penalties decreed.

Though unpleasant,
it is best
to let justice 
have its due.


Hexagram Twenty-One/Line One:
His feet are encased in stocks
that hide his toes.
Mild punishment, no blame.


Hexagram Twenty-One/Line Two:
A bite so deep into the meat
that his nose disappears.
Harsh, but no mistake.


Hexagram Twenty-One/Line Three:
Biting into dried meat
And striking something spoiled.
Uncomfortable, but no harm.


Hexagram Twenty-One/Line Four:
Biting into dried meat
and striking a piece of metal.
If you recognize the dangers,
you may follow this course to good fortune.


Hexagram Twenty-One/Line Five:
Biting into dried meat
and striking the golden arrowhead.
Keeping to this perilous course
will result in unexpected reward.


Hexagram Twenty-One/Line Six:
The wooden stocks 
cover his ears,
making him deaf 
to the warnings to repent.
Misfortune will deepen.

Copyright 1995-1996 Roger Norton Consulting. All rights reserved.