Hexagram 63 Line 5: 九五

Classical Chinese Text

九五 東鄰殺牛。不如西鄰之禴祭。實受其福。

東鄰殺牛

Line Commentary

The neighbor in the east who slaughters an ox does not attain as much real happiness as the neighbor in the west with his small offering. In divine worship, the simple old forms are replaced by ever more elaborate ritual and ever greater outward display. But inner seriousness is lacking in this show of magnificence; human caprice takes the place of conscientious obedience to the divine will. Man sees what is before his eyes; God looks into the heart. Therefore a simple sacrifice offered with real piety holds a greater blessing than an impressive service without warmth.

Commentary

The neighbor in the east who slaughters an ox does not attain as much real happiness as the neighbor in the west with his small offering. In times after completion, simple old forms give way to elaborate ritual and greater outward display. But inner seriousness is lacking; human caprice replaces obedience to the divine will. A simple sacrifice offered with real piety holds greater blessing than an impressive service without warmth.