I Ching 23

第23卦 剝

剝：不利。有攸往。

XXIII. The Po Hexagram.

Po indicates that (in the state which it symbolises) it will not be advantageous to make a movement in any direction whatever.

初六：剝牀以足，蔑貞凶。

The first line, divided, shows one overturning the couch by injuring its legs. (The injury will go on to) the destruction of (all) firm correctness, and there will be evil.

六二：剝牀以辨，蔑貞凶。

The second line, divided, shows one overthrowing the couch by injuring its frame. (The injury will go on to) the destruction of (all) firm correctness, and there will be evil.

六三：剝之，无咎。

The third line, divided, shows its subject among the overthrowers; but there will be no error.

六四：剝牀以膚，凶。

The fourth line, divided, shows its subject having overthrown the couch, and (going to injure) the skin (of him who lies on it). There will be evil.

六五：貫魚，以宮人寵，无不利。

The fifth line, divided, shows (its subject leading on the others like) a string of fishes, and (obtaining for them) the favour that lights on the inmates of the palace. There will be advantage in every way.

上九：碩果不食，君子德車，小人剝廬。

The topmost line, undivided, shows its subject (as) a great fruit which has not been eaten. The superior man finds (the people again) as a chariot carrying him. The small men (by their course) overthrow their own dwellings.