I Ching

Hexagram 18 — Corruption Gu

Hexagram 18, Corruption — the six lines

Classical meaning

Great success. It is favorable to cross the great river. Three days before the Jia period, three days after the Jia period.

蠱。元亨。利涉大川。先甲三日。後甲三日。

Image: The wind blows beneath the mountain: the image of decay. The noble one encourages the people to restore traditions.

It represents the need for repair, healing, and transformation of old patterns.

The six lines

Line 1. Correct the father's corruption. If there is a son, the predecessor's fault does not fall upon him. There is danger, but in the end it is auspicious. Face inherited errors with courage. Reparation demands effort and may entail risks, but leads to just restoration.
Line 2. Correct the corruption of the mother. It is not possible to remain upright. Recognize when the influence is too profound to be corrected. Accepting limits is also part of wisdom.
Line 3. Correct the father's corruption. Minor regret, but without great guilt. Even imperfect, the act of correcting is worth more than inertia. Do not fear small mistakes if the purpose is just.
Line 4. Accommodating the father's corruption. Proceeding forward leads to shame. Do not conceal or accommodate inherited faults. Tolerance of corruption undermines your dignity.
Line 5. Correcting the father's corruption brings recognition and praise. Correcting inherited injustices elevates your reputation. The courage to restore what is just inspires respect.
Line 6. It serves neither kings nor princes. It remains exalted in its own work. Do not submit to corrupt interests. True greatness lies in following your noble path, without the need for titles or favors.
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