Before Completion
"Fire over water. The fox gets his tail wet. Success is near, but caution is needed."
The Judgment
Before Completion. Success. But if the little fox, after nearly completing the crossing, gets his tail in the water, there is nothing that would further.
Original Text
亨，小狐汔济，濡其尾，无攸利。
The Image
Fire over water: The image of the condition before transition. Thus the superior man is careful in the differentiation of things so that each finds its place.
Original Text
火在水上，未济；君子以慎辨物居方。
The Lines
Six at the Beginning初六
"He gets his tail in the water. Humiliation."
Hasty action leads to failure.
Original: 濡其尾，吝。
Nine at the Place 2九二
"He brakes his wheels. Perseverance brings good fortune."
Patience and self-control bring success.
Original: 曳其轮，贞吉。
Six at the Place 3六三
"Before completion, attack brings misfortune. It furthers one to cross the great water."
Change direction rather than forcing a conclusion.
Original: 未济，征凶，利涉大川。
Nine at the Place 4九四
"Perseverance brings good fortune. Remorse disappears. Shock is used to discipline the Devil's Country. For three years, great realms are rewarded."
Struggle leads to a new order.
Original: 贞吉，悔亡，震用伐鬼方，三年有赏于大国。
Six at the Place 5六五
"Perseverance brings good fortune. No remorse. The light of the superior man. It is true. Good fortune."
Your inner light shines forth and inspires others.
Original: 贞吉，无悔，君子之光，有孚，吉。
Nine at the Top上九
"There is drinking of wine in genuine confidence. No blame. But if one wets his head, he loses it, in truth."
Enjoy success, but do not lose your head.
Original: 有孚于饮酒，无咎，濡其首，有孚失是。