火水未濟
Core Insight
火水未濟 — Hexagram 64
Before Completion. The fox almost across the river wets his tail at the last step. Almost-success is not success. Care to the very end — and the way completes.
The Image
火在水上，未濟；君子以慎辨物居方。
The Image of Before Completion: distinguish things carefully and put each one in its proper place. Treat the image as practical discipline, not decoration: let it shape the next concrete choice.
Shifting lines
初爻
At the beginning of Before Completion, keep the move small. Clarify the real question before seeking momentum.
二爻
A steadier position appears. Accept help, test the facts, and choose the next step that can be repeated.
三爻
Pressure rises in Before Completion. Do not make the tension theatrical; name the risk and reduce the unnecessary load.
四爻
The situation nears a threshold. Recheck motives, adjust the method, and avoid forcing a premature outcome.
五爻
This is the governing line of Before Completion. Act from the clearest principle and make the decision useful to others.
上爻
The pattern is reaching its limit. Complete what can be completed, release excess, and prepare for the next change.