Hexagram
Upper TrigramMountainLower TrigramWindLine 1 · YinLine 2 · YangLine 3 · YangLine 4 · YinLine 5 · YinLine 6 · YangKing Wen Sequence #18 · Work on the Decayed
I Ching Hexagram #18 Mountain / Wind

Work on the Decayed

山风蛊 (Gu)

Work on What Has Been Spoiled has supreme success. It furthers one to cross the great water.

The Judgment & Decision

[Original Judgment]
元亨,利涉大川。先甲三日,后甲三日。
Vernacular Essence: 山下受风止聚,革除宿弊之象。旧弊丛生需拨乱反正,深思熟虑后方能推陈出新。
Translation: Work on What Has Been Spoiled has supreme success. It furthers one to cross the great water.
[Commentary on the Decision]

蛊,刚上而柔下,巽而止,蛊。蛊,元亨,而天下治也。

The Great Symbolism & Virtue

《象》曰:山下有风,蛊;君子以振民育德。

The Symbolism: Work on the Decayed

The Six Lines & Dynamics

First Line
Line 1

初潜修德,厚积薄发。

《象》曰:行事之初,正固为本。

Insight: Early phase: cultivate virtue and build firm foundations.

Second Line
Line 2

得中居正,顺理成章。

《象》曰:居中守正,吉无咎也。

Insight: Progressing in balance: centered action brings auspicious support.

Third Line
Line 3

多凶多惧,终日惕厉。

《象》曰:处于转折,慎终如始。

Insight: Critical juncture: remain vigilant and cautious amidst uncertainty.

Fourth Line
Line 4

审时度势,顺应高明。

《象》曰:顺应高明,获其志也。

Insight: High responsibility: adapt wisely and maintain integrity without arrogance.

Fifth Line
Line 5

居尊当位,光被四表。

《象》曰:大君之位,德施普也。

Insight: Peak position of authority: lead with virtue and broad benevolence.

Top Line
Line 6

高亢知戒,顺应转机。

《象》曰:物极当变,持盈保泰。

Insight: Culmination: beware of extremes and prepare gracefully for renewal.