Hexagram 49 · Revolution

In Practice

Revolution shows fire within a lake: two elements in conflict, change brewing beneath the surface. It is the hexagram of radical change, of the overthrow of an old order and the establishment of a new one. Its image is the molting of an animal, the shedding of a skin that no longer fits. The teaching is double: revolution must come at the right time, when the old has truly run its course and the change is widely recognized as needed; and it must be for the right reason, to serve the good, not private ambition. Change is justified by timing and by justice.

In love

Something in the relationship has run its course and must fundamentally change — a pattern, an arrangement, a way of being together that no longer fits. But change it at the right time and for the right reason, not out of impulse. The shedding of the old must be deliberate and just.

In career

An old structure — a role, a process, a direction — has outlived its usefulness and must be replaced. Time the change when its necessity is widely felt, and make it for the good of the whole, not for private gain. Revolution is justified by timing and justice together.

In money

A fundamental change in strategy is needed — the old approach is no longer working. But do not overturn everything on impulse. Change at the right time, when the case is clear, and for sound reasons. The deliberate revolution is the profitable one.

Guidance

Undertake deep change only when the time is right and the reason is just. Let the old skin be shed when it no longer fits, and let the new serve the good. Revolution is justified by timing and by justice.

Watch out

Change made too early or for private ambition provokes resistance and failure. The right revolution is the one whose time has come and whose purpose is just — neither premature nor self-serving.