How to Resolve the Issues? The Exact I Ching Hexagram of Solutions

Every person encounters problems.

Some struggle with relationships. Some face financial difficulties. Others encounter obstacles in their careers, businesses, or personal development.

The question is not whether problems will arise. The real question is:

How do we solve them?

Remarkably, the ancient I Ching (Book of Changes) contains an entire hexagram devoted specifically to the art of resolving difficulties and overcoming obstacles.

That hexagram is Hexagram 40 – Jie (Release, Liberation, Resolution).

Among the sixty-four hexagrams, Hexagram 40 provides one of the clearest and most practical roadmaps for solving problems in life.

Hexagram 40: The I Ching Hexagram of Solutions

The Judgment of Hexagram 40 says:

"Favorable in the southwest. If there is nowhere to go, returning brings good fortune. If there is somewhere to go, early action brings good fortune."

The ancient Chinese observed that the northeast was often cold, harsh, and difficult to inhabit, while the southwest tended to be warmer, more fertile, and more comfortable.

The principle is timeless:

When facing difficulties, do not stubbornly choose the hardest path first.

When resources, strength, or opportunities are limited, begin with the direction that offers better conditions and greater support.

Successful problem-solving often starts with choosing the right environment.

Step 1: Having Problems Is Not a Failure

The First Line: No Blame

"No blame."

The first lesson of Hexagram 40 is surprisingly comforting.

Having a problem does not automatically mean you have done something wrong.

Life presents challenges because circumstances change, skills are incomplete, and new situations constantly emerge.

Many people waste valuable energy blaming themselves.

The I Ching advises a healthier perspective:

A problem is simply a signal that a solution is needed.

Once the difficulty is recognized, focus your attention on growth rather than guilt.

Step 2: Solve Problems Through Honest Effort

The Second Line: Hunting Three Foxes

"In the field, three foxes are captured. A golden arrow is obtained. Persistence brings good fortune."

In ancient times, hunting was one way to solve the problem of survival.

The fox symbolizes deception, confusion, and hidden difficulties.

The golden arrow represents wisdom, justice, accuracy, and clear judgment.

The message is straightforward:

• Work diligently.
• Face reality directly.
• Develop practical skills.
• Use wisdom instead of wishful thinking.

Most real-world problems are solved through effort, competence, and clear thinking rather than luck.

Step 3: Stop Creating Your Own Problems

The Third Line: Carrying a Burden While Riding

"Carrying a burden while riding invites robbers."

This line contains one of the most profound insights of the I Ching.

Sometimes the problem is not external.

Sometimes we create it ourselves.

Imagine someone riding comfortably in a carriage while still clutching a heavy bag on their back.

The behavior appears strange and attracts unwanted attention.

Likewise, many people:

• Refuse to let go of old resentments.
• Carry unnecessary emotional baggage.
• Create complications through pride.
• Hold onto habits that no longer serve them.

Before searching for solutions, ask yourself:

"Am I contributing to the problem?"

Often, letting go of unnecessary burdens is itself the solution.

Step 4: Learn to Accept Help

The Fourth Line: Friends Arrive

"Release the thumb, and friends arrive with trust."

The ancient commentary compares solving a knot to using both hands.

If your thumbs are tied, solving the knot becomes difficult.

At that moment, assistance becomes valuable.

Many modern problems exceed the ability of a single individual.

• Businesses need teams.
• Families need cooperation.
• Communities need collaboration.
• Large projects require collective effort.

One of the greatest mistakes people make is refusing help out of pride.

The I Ching teaches that teamwork is often the key to liberation.

Step 5: Become the Kind of Person Who Can Solve Problems

The Fifth Line: The Superior Person Brings Resolution

"The superior person achieves release. Good fortune. Even the petty person trusts him."

The fifth line shifts the focus from solving individual problems to becoming a capable problem solver.

The superior person continuously develops:

• Knowledge
• Skills
• Wisdom
• Character
• Credibility

When competence and integrity become strong enough, even difficult people lose the desire to create trouble.

A trustworthy person naturally gains influence.

A capable person naturally gains respect.

Many problems disappear when personal capability rises.

Step 6: Seek Higher Wisdom When Necessary

The Sixth Line: Shooting the Falcon from the High Wall

"The prince shoots a falcon from atop a high wall and captures it. Everything is favorable."

This is one of the most dramatic images in the entire I Ching.

A great leader stands on elevated ground and effortlessly strikes the target that others could not reach.

The falcon represents the root cause of conflict and disorder.

The high wall symbolizes superior perspective.

The arrow symbolizes extraordinary skill.

The lesson is profound:

Truly great people solve problems differently because they see more than others see.

When facing challenges beyond your current ability, humility becomes essential.

Seek guidance from:

• Mentors
• Teachers
• Experts
• Wise leaders
• People with greater experience

Often, a higher perspective reveals a solution that was invisible from below.

The Ultimate Secret of Hexagram 40

Many people believe problem-solving is merely about removing obstacles.

Hexagram 40 teaches something deeper.

The true purpose of solving problems is liberation.

When difficulties are resolved:

• Energy is released.
• Growth resumes.
• Relationships improve.
• Opportunities emerge.
• Life moves forward.

The Commentary states:

"When Heaven and Earth are released, thunder and rain arise. Thunder and rain arise, and all plants burst forth."

Just as rain revitalizes the natural world, solving life's difficulties releases new possibilities and new growth.

Practical I Ching Wisdom for Solving Any Problem

Hexagram 40 provides a six-step framework:

1. Recognize that having a problem is not a personal failure.
2. Apply honest effort, wisdom, and practical action.
3. Stop creating unnecessary problems for yourself.
4. Accept help and build strong partnerships.
5. Continuously strengthen your abilities and character.
6. Seek higher wisdom when challenges exceed your experience.

These principles apply equally to:

• Love and relationships
• Career challenges
• Financial difficulties
• Family conflicts
• Business decisions
• Personal growth

Final Thoughts

If you have ever wondered, "How can I solve this problem?" the I Ching offers a timeless answer through Hexagram 40.

The path to resolution is not panic, blame, or force.

The path is wisdom, effort, responsibility, cooperation, self-improvement, and humility.

The greatest craftsmen, leaders, and problem-solvers throughout history share one common characteristic:

They dedicate their abilities to restoring order, justice, and harmony.

That is the highest spirit of Hexagram 40.

And that is the true art of solving problems.

If you seek deeper insight into relationships, life decisions, emotional struggles, career choices, or personal transformation, you may explore:

I Ching Wisdom Consultation