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I Ching · 64 Hexagrams
Zhouyi I Ching, the 3rd hexagram, the Establishing Difficulty hexagram, Water over Thunder, Kan above Zhen below
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Establishing Difficulty: Great success; beneficial steadfastness. Do not undertake a journey; it is beneficial to establish feudal lords.
The Tuan Commentary says: Establishing Difficulty means that hardness and softness have just begun to interact, and difficulty arises. Movement occurs within danger; great success comes through steadfastness. The movement of thunder and rain fills everything; Heaven creates amid obscurity and disorder. It is fitting to establish feudal lords, but there is no peace.
The Image says: Clouds and thunder—Establishing Difficulty. The noble person uses this to organize and manage affairs.
Hexagram 3 — original text and overview
Detailed explanation of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Original text of the Establishing Difficulty hexagram
Establishing Difficulty. Great, success, beneficial, steadfast. Do not undertake a journey; there is a direction to go; beneficial to establish feudal lords.
The Image says: Clouds, thunder, Establishing Difficulty; the noble person uses this to organize and manage affairs.
Explanation in plain language
The Establishing Difficulty hexagram: Great success and benefit; an auspicious divination. It is unfavorable to go out. It is favorable to establish a state and confer feudal rank.
The Image Commentary says: The upper trigram of Establishing Difficulty is Kan, and Kan is clouds; the lower trigram is Zhen, and Zhen is thunder. Clouds move above and thunder moves below—this is the image of Establishing Difficulty. The noble person observes this image and models himself on clouds and thunder, using the clouds’ grace and thunder’s authority to govern state affairs.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Establishing Difficulty hexagram has Kan above and Zhen below, and is the second-generation hexagram of the Kan palace. Establishing Difficulty indicates difficulty and also symbolizes movement encountering danger; only firmness and courage bring good fortune.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
All things are beginning to arise, so the beginning is difficult; first toil, then ease, with bitterness ending and sweetness coming.
Those who obtain this hexagram are in a difficult situation. They should hold their position rather than advance, and work harder to overcome difficulties before they can reach openness and success. It indicates initial difficulty followed by later resolution.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Hold your position rather than advance.
Wealth: Starting a business is extremely difficult.
Home: Repair the residence; a first marriage is disharmonious.
Health: Preserve your vital energy.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This is a contrasting hexagram, with Zhen below and Kan above. Zhen is thunder, symbolizing movement; Kan is rain, symbolizing danger. Thunder and rain come together, dangers arise everywhere, and the environment is harsh. “Establishing Difficulty” originally refers to plants sprouting from the earth: all things begin to arise amid countless difficulties and dangers, yet by following the season and responding to circumstances, they must flourish.
Great image: Establishing Difficulty means difficulty; in all matters one wants to advance but cannot.
Fortune: You are in a difficult situation and must advance step by step; initial difficulty will later be resolved.
Career: There will be much unfavorable news at first. Know the difficulty and advance, proceeding carefully but bravely and flexibly; great success may be expected. When the opportunity arrives, seize it, but do not act too hastily. Difficulties remain, and help from others is essential, so you should ordinarily extend kindness to others.
Business: Starting a business is difficult and setback-filled. Firm faith is most important; do not be misled by appearances. Advance actively, act decisively, and open a way forward. If you still cannot escape the predicament, withdraw and preserve what you have, wait for an opportunity, and then unfold your grand plans again.
Seeking fame: Strive for it actively and pursue it proactively; success is possible.
Love and marriage: Good things require much effort. With loyalty and purity and bold pursuit, success is possible and marriage will be happy.
Decision-making: The beginning is difficult, but with perseverance and an unrelenting spirit of struggle, the future is immeasurable. Yet one is often misunderstood by others and falls into loneliness and distress, causing the career to remain difficult. Help from virtuous people is needed to escape. If one conducts oneself with optimism, achievements can be attained.
Philosophical meaning of the third hexagram
Every hexagram in the I Ching is a symbol and represents many concrete meanings. Qian symbolizes Heaven, Kun symbolizes Earth; Qian symbolizes the father, Kun symbolizes the mother, and so on. The Qian and Kun hexagrams are called the hexagrams of father and mother. Their mutual changes produce all things in the universe, while Establishing Difficulty, as the third hexagram, symbolizes the beginning of things.
The Sequence Commentary says: “What fills the space between Heaven and Earth is only the ten thousand things; therefore Establishing Difficulty follows. Establishing Difficulty means fullness; Establishing Difficulty means the beginning of things being born.” What fills Heaven and Earth is the ten thousand things, so Establishing Difficulty appears next. Establishing Difficulty means fullness and also the beginning of the birth of all things.
The Establishing Difficulty hexagram symbolizes difficulty in advancing and the hardship of the beginning stage—“everything is difficult at the start.” In the hexagram image, this is because the upper trigram is Kan, representing hardship and danger. The lower trigram wants to move forward but is blocked by Kan, so it must advance amid difficulty. This hexagram belongs to the lowest auspicious class. The Image judges it: Wind scatters tangled threads and no end can be seen; confusion brings worry. Slowly and gently, things will proceed smoothly on the left; haste instead causes constraint and loss of freedom.
The upper trigram of Establishing Difficulty is Kan, meaning water; the lower trigram is Zhen, meaning thunder, so the overall image is Water over Thunder. In other words, the combination of water and thunder symbolizes Establishing Difficulty. But the character “Establishing Difficulty” depicts a young seedling, while the hexagram image is water and thunder—what is the connection? Kan above represents clouds, and Zhen below represents thunder. Dark clouds appear, followed by thunder, and naturally rain will fall. Only with rain can plants on the earth grow and seedlings have hope of maturing. Thus the hexagram name and its lines form a wonderfully harmonious whole.
Hexagram 3 — line-by-line explanation
Detailed explanation of the Initial Nine line of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the First Nine line
Initial Nine. Hesitating and circling; beneficial to remain in steadfastness; beneficial to establish feudal lords.
The Image says: Although hesitating and circling, the will proceeds correctly. By the noble lowering himself to the lowly, he gains the people greatly.
Explanation in plain language
Initial Nine: Hesitating and unable to advance. This is an auspicious divination for remaining where one is. For a shaman who obtains this line, it is beneficial to establish a state and confer feudal rank.
The Image Commentary says: Although hesitating and unable to advance, the will and conduct are upright. Initial Nine is below the yin line Six in the second place, symbolizing the noble lowering himself respectfully before the lowly, thereby greatly winning the people’s hearts.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Ordinary: Those who obtain this line and keep to their proper duties will have no worries; those who act restlessly will be disadvantaged. Officials have not yet been valued, but if they hold to the correct path, good fortune can be expected. For a woman, it indicates a good wife who brings prosperity to the family.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Wanting to advance but not advancing; hold to the correct path.
Wealth: Unfavorable for commerce; upright and noble people may be appointed.
Home: Live peacefully in a distinguished residence; marriage is auspicious.
Health: Healthy and free from worry.
Transformation of the First Nine line
!["周易第3卦的初九变卦卦的卦图]("https://192.9.180.102:8006/assets/c5fa4ede-3706-41e0-9a44-072d228fb44e)
When the Initial Nine line changes, it becomes the 8th Zhouyi hexagram: Fellowship, Water over Earth. This is a contrasting hexagram, with Kun below and Kan above. Kun is earth and Kan is water. Water clings to the earth, while the earth receives rivers and seas; they depend on each other and are intimate without separation. This hexagram is completely opposite to the Army and is its complementary opposite. It expounds mutual affection and assistance, broad-minded selflessness, and sincere unity.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
In the Establishing Difficulty hexagram, “beneficial to establish feudal lords” is emphasized repeatedly because whenever anything begins, it is also the time of difficulty and help from others is needed. When beginning a new undertaking, if you feel uncertain, adjust your goals and strategies, consult experienced subordinates, and “enfeoff” them—give them certain benefits while also assigning responsibilities and obligations, like enfeoffing feudal lords. This will benefit your undertaking.
A person who obtains this hexagram may be in difficulty, hesitating and unable to advance, unable to realize their potential. At such a time, it is unsuitable to act; one should stay at home and preserve one’s virtue. Build one’s authority and cultivate one’s network, or wait until one has achieved something before emerging and undertaking a major effort. At the beginning of a career, progress is difficult and achievements are hard to make, but if one still remains upright and dares to advance, the future will be favorable.
The Image says: Although hesitating and circling, the will proceeds correctly. By the noble lowering himself to the lowly, he gains the people greatly.
The Image says: Although hesitating and circling, the will proceeds correctly. By the noble lowering himself to the lowly, he gains the people greatly.
The meaning is: Although one hesitates and cannot advance, the intention to advance is proper. By being noble yet placing oneself below the lowly, one can broadly gain the people’s support.
The Initial line tells people not to lose heart when facing difficulties, but to retain the will to advance. It also calls attention to “the noble lowering himself to the lowly”: rulers should treat ministers well and leaders should respect subordinates—in other words, they should honor worthy people of humble status.
A person who obtains this hexagram may be recommended by many people to undertake something or become a leader or minor chief. Although you possess this ability, the timing is unfavorable, so it is difficult to fulfill your wishes—your great ambition remains unfulfilled.
Initial Nine is a yang line in its proper position, like an employee in a lower post who harbors great ambitions. In the Zhouyi, yang is honored and yin is humble, so Initial Nine is described as “the noble lowering himself to the lowly,” meaning that a person of honored status comes to occupy a low position. Today, we cannot regard yang as representing men and yin as representing women. In fact, every person with great ambitions is noble, because their aspiration can make them a noble person. Such an ambitious person in a lowly position must be as steadfast as a boulder and as self-reliant and strong as a monumental pillar. Only in this way can great undertakings be achieved.
Detailed explanation of the Nine in the second place line of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the second place line statement
Six in the second place. Difficulty and hesitation; mounted horses move in ranks. Not bandits but a marriage alliance; the girl remains chaste and does not marry; after ten years she marries.
The Image says: The difficulty of Six in the second place comes from riding upon hardness; “after ten years she marries” means returning to the ordinary course.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the second place: Hesitating and not moving forward. On the road, one hesitates, driving the horse-drawn carriage in circles on the spot—not coming to raid, but to marry the maiden. Divination indicates that this woman cannot conceive; only after ten years will she become pregnant.
The Image says: The line of Six in the second place portends hardship because it is positioned above the firm line of Nine in the first place. That it takes ten years to conceive is an abnormal occurrence.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line will have the joy of marriage. For officials, authority and influence will steadily increase.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: It will not be accomplished for a while, but can be accomplished in ten years.
Wealth: Selling will be difficult and consume considerable time.
Home: It is a good match, but one must wait.
Health: Maintain the habit of exercising.
Six in the second place changing hexagram
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When Six in the second place changes, it becomes Hexagram 60 of the Zhouyi: Water over Lake, Limitation. This is a differing hexagram, with Dui below and Kan above, doubled together. Dui is the lake, and Kan is water. A lake contains water but its flow is limited; too much water will overflow beyond the lake. Therefore there must be moderation, hence the name Limitation. Limitation is the reverse of Dispersion and they are complementary nuclear opposites, used in alternation. Heaven and earth can remain ever-new only through moderation; a state can remain secure only through moderation; an individual can attain perfection only through moderation.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
The reason Six in the second place meets such difficulties is explained by the Image: “Six in the second place is in difficulty because it rides upon firmness. Ten years before she bears a child—that is contrary to the ordinary course.” This means that the difficult situation of Six in the second place arises because it rides above a firm line; only after ten years can she marry, and in the end everything returns to normal.
From this hexagram, we can understand the essentials of choosing a spouse: it is not about money or status, but only whether the person is the one in your heart, and whether he has great aspirations and prospects. Thus, this discerning Six in the second place finally married, ten years later, the person she loved—the successful Nine in the first place. Female readers should take inspiration from this line and learn how to choose the person they truly love!
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine in the third place of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the third place line statement
Six in the third place: Pursuing a deer without a forester, only entering the forest. The noble person, seeing that it is wiser to give up, does so. Going forward brings humiliation.
The Image says: Pursuing a deer without a forester means pursuing game recklessly. The noble person gives it up; going forward brings humiliation because one is at an impasse.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the third place: Pursuing a wild deer without an official guide. Thinking that the deer has fled into the mountain forest, the noble person is clever enough to decide that it is better to give up. Entering deep into the forest would be dangerous.
The Image says: Pursuing a wild deer without a forester means intending to chase game. The noble person abandons the deer, knowing that going deep into the forest is dangerous; there is no other course.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who obtain this line must remain content with their place and conduct; otherwise disaster will occur. Officials may be suspected of corruption and face suspension or demotion.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Seeking treasure and gaining profit is hardly worth pursuing.
Wealth: There may be losses; it is better to let it go.
Home: Seeking marriage by improper means will lead to difficulties.
Health: Do not indulge in lust and harm your body.
Six in the third place changing hexagram
!["周易第3卦的六三变卦卦的卦图]("https://192.9.180.102:8006/assets/9ea7ce95-1c2d-42b0-85ee-9a1df1e69e12)
When Six in the third place changes, it becomes Hexagram 63 of the Zhouyi: Water over Fire, Already Fulfilled. This is a differing hexagram, with Li below and Kan above, doubled together. Kan is water and Li is fire. Water and fire meet, with water above fire; the force of water overwhelms the fire, and the great work of quelling the fire is complete. “Already” means completed; “fulfilled” means accomplished. Already Fulfilled means that the matter has succeeded, but change will eventually occur.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
Let us examine this line carefully. Six in the third place is within the lower trigram, which belongs to Zhen; Zhen signifies action. Six in the third place is also within the mutual Kun, which represents fields. From its position, we can infer that this concerns hunting in the fields. Six in the third place is a yielding line occupying the firm position of “three,” and above it there is no leader. Thus, although it indicates entering the fields and forest, there is no one to obey, command, or guide it. It is itself yielding and lacks this ability. Under these circumstances, it is better to abandon the pursuit of the prey; otherwise difficulties will arise.
Those who obtain this line should learn to act according to circumstances. If there is no capable assistant or the leader’s support, and you are not skilled at the task, give it up and do not proceed. If you are not talented in a particular area yet insist on accomplishing something in it, not only will the matter fail, but it will also bring blame and disaster.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Pursuing a deer without a forester is following after game. The noble person abandons it; going forward brings humiliation and reaches an impasse.”
This means: Chasing a wild deer without a hunting official’s guidance is merely following animals in pursuit, driven only by greed for game. The noble person should give it up. If one continues to chase, difficulties will arise, and one may even fall into destitution.
Those who obtain this line should take care when acting. Some matters can be done: the time, place, and people are favorable, and you have the ability, so you should undertake them without hesitation. Other matters cannot be done, and you lack the ability; even if mountains of gold and silver were placed before you, you still should not do them. If you only covet wealth and honor without considering whether you can or cannot do something, disaster will certainly occur. In such circumstances, abandon what should be abandoned and control your greed. Do not focus only on chasing the prey while ignoring your own situation.
Six in the third place is at the top of Zhen, and Zhen is action. At the top, Six in the third place inevitably shows excessive action; above it one enters Kan, which is danger—there is danger ahead. Therefore the line statement uses an extremely vivid metaphor to offer sound advice. A noble person follows a deer into the forest, an unfamiliar forest. Eager to obtain the deer, he hunts without an experienced hunting official and faces the danger of losing his way. What should he do—continue pursuing or give up? The noble person is wise and chooses to give up.
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine in the fourth place of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the fourth place line statement
Six in the fourth place: Riding a horse, circling in place, seeking a marriage alliance. Go forward; it is auspicious and nothing is unfavorable.
The Image says: Seeking and going forward shows understanding.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the fourth place: Riding a horse-drawn carriage in circles on the spot, seeking a marriage alliance. Advance boldly and it will surely be auspicious.
The Image says: Daring to seek and bravely going deep show that the person clearly understands the situation.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line can accomplish their plans; all matters harmonize. Friends will help, bringing great good fortune. Officials will become renowned and may be promoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Act according to the trend and achieve great development.
Wealth: The benefits are clearly visible, so there should be gains.
Home: Marriage is auspicious.
Health: Follow the doctor’s instructions.
Six in the fourth place changing hexagram
!["周易第3卦的六四变卦卦的卦图]("https://192.9.180.102:8006/assets/75ece79c-58f5-4fa7-9daf-f3e6d0c7ceb4)
When Six in the fourth place changes, it becomes Hexagram 17 of the Zhouyi: Lake over Thunder, Following. This is a differing hexagram, with Zhen below and Dui above, doubled together. Zhen is thunder and movement; Dui is joy. Movement accompanied by joy is “following.” Following means mutual compliance: oneself follows things, things can follow oneself, and both communicate. Following must accord with time and circumstances, with principles and conditions, taking steadfastness as its premise.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
Those who obtain this line should learn to act according to circumstances. If there is no capable assistant or the leader’s support, and you are not skilled at the task, give it up and do not proceed. If you are not talented in a particular area yet insist on accomplishing something in it, not only will the matter fail, but it will also bring blame and disaster.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Pursuing a deer without a forester is following after game. The noble person abandons it; going forward brings humiliation and reaches an impasse.”
This means: Chasing a wild deer without a hunting official’s guidance is merely following animals in pursuit, driven only by greed for game. The noble person should give it up. If one continues to chase, difficulties will arise, and one may even fall into destitution.
Those who obtain this line should take care when acting. Some matters can be done: the time, place, and people are favorable, and you have the ability, so you should undertake them without hesitation. Other matters cannot be done, and you lack the ability; even if mountains of gold and silver were placed before you, you still should not do them. If you only covet wealth and honor without considering whether you can or cannot do something, disaster will certainly occur. In such circumstances, abandon what should be abandoned and control your greed. Do not focus only on chasing the prey while ignoring your own situation.
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine in the fifth place of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the fifth place: Hoarding fat. For a small divination, auspicious; for a major divination, inauspicious.
The Image says: Hoarding fat means that charity has not spread widely.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fifth place: Hoarding fat. If this line appears in divination, asking about a small matter is auspicious; asking about a major matter is inauspicious.
The Image says: “Hoarding fat” means that charity is not widely extended.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should not be impatient when planning matters. Small matters can succeed; major matters have no hope and may even invite misfortune.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: With no one to promote you, there is temporarily no hope.
Wealth: A small business may still make a profit, but a large business is inauspicious.
Home: Accumulating wealth harms harmony.
Health: An illness at its beginning can be treated; a long-standing illness is dangerous.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
!["周易第3卦的九五变卦卦的卦图]("https://192.9.180.102:8006/assets/94382d5b-0cf3-4c66-9360-2438ba6791f8)
When Nine in the fifth place changes, it becomes Hexagram 24 of the Zhouyi: Earth over Thunder, Returning. This is a differing hexagram, with Zhen below and Kun above, doubled together. Zhen is thunder and movement; Kun is earth and compliance. Movement therefore follows the natural course. Movement within compliance, inner Yang and outer Yin, proceeds step by step and advances or retreats freely, favoring progress.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
From the hexagram image, Six in the fourth place is a yielding line in a yielding position, so it is properly placed. Those who obtain this line and wish to seek marriage need not hesitate, worrying that the other person dislikes them or will reject them. It is better to go boldly and pursue them. Although the process may appear difficult and full of setbacks, it is very auspicious and there are not as many difficulties as imagined.
The Image says: Seeking and going forward shows understanding.
This means: Pursuing firmly and without wavering is a wise course.
This line belongs to the Hexagram of Initial Difficulty, symbolizing the early birth of things, when difficulties are inevitable. One must never become disheartened and stop one’s steps or aspirations for that reason. Therefore, cast aside worry and pursue boldly.
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine at the top of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Upper Six line statement
Six at the top: Riding a horse, circling in place, weeping tears of blood in an endless stream.
The Image says: Weeping tears of blood in an endless stream—how could such a situation last long?
Explanation in plain language
Six at the top: Riding a horse-drawn carriage in circles on the spot, weeping silently with tears streaming down.
The Image says: Weeping silently with tears streaming down—how could such a scene continue for long?
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who obtain this line will see the family decline and must guard against losses. Officials must beware of slander by petty people.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: There is no road ahead; preserving your life is the priority.
Wealth: Indecision causes the loss of every good opportunity.
Home: The family’s fortunes decline.
Health: Vomiting blood; inauspicious.
Upper Six changing hexagram
!["周易第3卦的上六变卦卦的卦图]("https://192.9.180.102:8006/assets/5fec9cf6-4450-476b-abe2-be86d6c58f86)
When Six at the top changes, it becomes Hexagram 42 of the Zhouyi: Wind over Thunder, Increase. This is a differing hexagram, with Zhen below and Xun above, doubled together. Xun is wind; Zhen is thunder. Wind and thunder surge together, growing ever stronger; thunder grows louder, and wind and thunder mutually assist and increase one another. This hexagram is opposite to Decrease: it diminishes the upper to benefit the lower, whereas Decrease diminishes the lower to benefit the upper. The two hexagrams explain the principles of decrease and increase.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
We know that in the I Ching, the position of Nine in the fifth place is honored. Nine in the fifth place lies within Kan, and Kan represents clouds. Clouds are gathered droplets of water that have not yet transformed into rain, hence “hoarding fat.” If an emperor obtains this hexagram, it indicates that his grace has not been broadly distributed. The emperor should understand the way of giving and keeping: if he stores little wealth for himself and gives much to the people, it will be auspicious. Otherwise, it will be inauspicious.
The Image says: “Hoarding fat”—charity has not been made radiant.
This points out that someone who only hoards wealth for himself and pays no attention to helping others, even if he wants to accomplish something, has an unpromising future.
If an ordinary person obtains this hexagram, they must understand the principle of choosing what to keep and what to give up. Only hoarding wealth and ignoring help for others is very dangerous. By doing so, small matters may possibly succeed, but major matters will inevitably become perilous. Therefore, do not focus only on your own money pouch; “extend your grace widely.” Only by understanding when to give up can you avoid misfortune and move toward good fortune.
Statement of the First Nine line
Initial Nine. Hesitating and circling; beneficial to remain in steadfastness; beneficial to establish feudal lords.
The Image says: Although hesitating and circling, the will proceeds correctly. By the noble lowering himself to the lowly, he gains the people greatly.
Explanation in plain language
Initial Nine: Hesitating and unable to advance. This is an auspicious divination for remaining where one is. For a shaman who obtains this line, it is beneficial to establish a state and confer feudal rank.
The Image Commentary says: Although hesitating and unable to advance, the will and conduct are upright. Initial Nine is below the yin line Six in the second place, symbolizing the noble lowering himself respectfully before the lowly, thereby greatly winning the people’s hearts.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Ordinary: Those who obtain this line and keep to their proper duties will have no worries; those who act restlessly will be disadvantaged. Officials have not yet been valued, but if they hold to the correct path, good fortune can be expected. For a woman, it indicates a good wife who brings prosperity to the family.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Wanting to advance but not advancing; hold to the correct path.
Wealth: Unfavorable for commerce; upright and noble people may be appointed.
Home: Live peacefully in a distinguished residence; marriage is auspicious.
Health: Healthy and free from worry.
Transformation of the First Nine line
When the Initial Nine line changes, it becomes the 8th Zhouyi hexagram: Fellowship, Water over Earth. This is a contrasting hexagram, with Kun below and Kan above. Kun is earth and Kan is water. Water clings to the earth, while the earth receives rivers and seas; they depend on each other and are intimate without separation. This hexagram is completely opposite to the Army and is its complementary opposite. It expounds mutual affection and assistance, broad-minded selflessness, and sincere unity.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
In the Establishing Difficulty hexagram, “beneficial to establish feudal lords” is emphasized repeatedly because whenever anything begins, it is also the time of difficulty and help from others is needed. When beginning a new undertaking, if you feel uncertain, adjust your goals and strategies, consult experienced subordinates, and “enfeoff” them—give them certain benefits while also assigning responsibilities and obligations, like enfeoffing feudal lords. This will benefit your undertaking.
A person who obtains this hexagram may be in difficulty, hesitating and unable to advance, unable to realize their potential. At such a time, it is unsuitable to act; one should stay at home and preserve one’s virtue. Build one’s authority and cultivate one’s network, or wait until one has achieved something before emerging and undertaking a major effort. At the beginning of a career, progress is difficult and achievements are hard to make, but if one still remains upright and dares to advance, the future will be favorable.
The Image says: Although hesitating and circling, the will proceeds correctly. By the noble lowering himself to the lowly, he gains the people greatly.
The Image says: Although hesitating and circling, the will proceeds correctly. By the noble lowering himself to the lowly, he gains the people greatly.
The meaning is: Although one hesitates and cannot advance, the intention to advance is proper. By being noble yet placing oneself below the lowly, one can broadly gain the people’s support.
The Initial line tells people not to lose heart when facing difficulties, but to retain the will to advance. It also calls attention to “the noble lowering himself to the lowly”: rulers should treat ministers well and leaders should respect subordinates—in other words, they should honor worthy people of humble status.
A person who obtains this hexagram may be recommended by many people to undertake something or become a leader or minor chief. Although you possess this ability, the timing is unfavorable, so it is difficult to fulfill your wishes—your great ambition remains unfulfilled.
Initial Nine is a yang line in its proper position, like an employee in a lower post who harbors great ambitions. In the Zhouyi, yang is honored and yin is humble, so Initial Nine is described as “the noble lowering himself to the lowly,” meaning that a person of honored status comes to occupy a low position. Today, we cannot regard yang as representing men and yin as representing women. In fact, every person with great ambitions is noble, because their aspiration can make them a noble person. Such an ambitious person in a lowly position must be as steadfast as a boulder and as self-reliant and strong as a monumental pillar. Only in this way can great undertakings be achieved.
Detailed explanation of the Nine in the second place line of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the second place line statement
Six in the second place. Difficulty and hesitation; mounted horses move in ranks. Not bandits but a marriage alliance; the girl remains chaste and does not marry; after ten years she marries.
The Image says: The difficulty of Six in the second place comes from riding upon hardness; “after ten years she marries” means returning to the ordinary course.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the second place: Hesitating and not moving forward. On the road, one hesitates, driving the horse-drawn carriage in circles on the spot—not coming to raid, but to marry the maiden. Divination indicates that this woman cannot conceive; only after ten years will she become pregnant.
The Image says: The line of Six in the second place portends hardship because it is positioned above the firm line of Nine in the first place. That it takes ten years to conceive is an abnormal occurrence.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line will have the joy of marriage. For officials, authority and influence will steadily increase.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: It will not be accomplished for a while, but can be accomplished in ten years.
Wealth: Selling will be difficult and consume considerable time.
Home: It is a good match, but one must wait.
Health: Maintain the habit of exercising.
Six in the second place changing hexagram
When Six in the second place changes, it becomes Hexagram 60 of the Zhouyi: Water over Lake, Limitation. This is a differing hexagram, with Dui below and Kan above, doubled together. Dui is the lake, and Kan is water. A lake contains water but its flow is limited; too much water will overflow beyond the lake. Therefore there must be moderation, hence the name Limitation. Limitation is the reverse of Dispersion and they are complementary nuclear opposites, used in alternation. Heaven and earth can remain ever-new only through moderation; a state can remain secure only through moderation; an individual can attain perfection only through moderation.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
The reason Six in the second place meets such difficulties is explained by the Image: “Six in the second place is in difficulty because it rides upon firmness. Ten years before she bears a child—that is contrary to the ordinary course.” This means that the difficult situation of Six in the second place arises because it rides above a firm line; only after ten years can she marry, and in the end everything returns to normal.
From this hexagram, we can understand the essentials of choosing a spouse: it is not about money or status, but only whether the person is the one in your heart, and whether he has great aspirations and prospects. Thus, this discerning Six in the second place finally married, ten years later, the person she loved—the successful Nine in the first place. Female readers should take inspiration from this line and learn how to choose the person they truly love!
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine in the third place of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the third place line statement
Six in the third place: Pursuing a deer without a forester, only entering the forest. The noble person, seeing that it is wiser to give up, does so. Going forward brings humiliation.
The Image says: Pursuing a deer without a forester means pursuing game recklessly. The noble person gives it up; going forward brings humiliation because one is at an impasse.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the third place: Pursuing a wild deer without an official guide. Thinking that the deer has fled into the mountain forest, the noble person is clever enough to decide that it is better to give up. Entering deep into the forest would be dangerous.
The Image says: Pursuing a wild deer without a forester means intending to chase game. The noble person abandons the deer, knowing that going deep into the forest is dangerous; there is no other course.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who obtain this line must remain content with their place and conduct; otherwise disaster will occur. Officials may be suspected of corruption and face suspension or demotion.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Seeking treasure and gaining profit is hardly worth pursuing.
Wealth: There may be losses; it is better to let it go.
Home: Seeking marriage by improper means will lead to difficulties.
Health: Do not indulge in lust and harm your body.
Six in the third place changing hexagram
When Six in the third place changes, it becomes Hexagram 63 of the Zhouyi: Water over Fire, Already Fulfilled. This is a differing hexagram, with Li below and Kan above, doubled together. Kan is water and Li is fire. Water and fire meet, with water above fire; the force of water overwhelms the fire, and the great work of quelling the fire is complete. “Already” means completed; “fulfilled” means accomplished. Already Fulfilled means that the matter has succeeded, but change will eventually occur.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
Let us examine this line carefully. Six in the third place is within the lower trigram, which belongs to Zhen; Zhen signifies action. Six in the third place is also within the mutual Kun, which represents fields. From its position, we can infer that this concerns hunting in the fields. Six in the third place is a yielding line occupying the firm position of “three,” and above it there is no leader. Thus, although it indicates entering the fields and forest, there is no one to obey, command, or guide it. It is itself yielding and lacks this ability. Under these circumstances, it is better to abandon the pursuit of the prey; otherwise difficulties will arise.
Those who obtain this line should learn to act according to circumstances. If there is no capable assistant or the leader’s support, and you are not skilled at the task, give it up and do not proceed. If you are not talented in a particular area yet insist on accomplishing something in it, not only will the matter fail, but it will also bring blame and disaster.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Pursuing a deer without a forester is following after game. The noble person abandons it; going forward brings humiliation and reaches an impasse.”
This means: Chasing a wild deer without a hunting official’s guidance is merely following animals in pursuit, driven only by greed for game. The noble person should give it up. If one continues to chase, difficulties will arise, and one may even fall into destitution.
Those who obtain this line should take care when acting. Some matters can be done: the time, place, and people are favorable, and you have the ability, so you should undertake them without hesitation. Other matters cannot be done, and you lack the ability; even if mountains of gold and silver were placed before you, you still should not do them. If you only covet wealth and honor without considering whether you can or cannot do something, disaster will certainly occur. In such circumstances, abandon what should be abandoned and control your greed. Do not focus only on chasing the prey while ignoring your own situation.
Six in the third place is at the top of Zhen, and Zhen is action. At the top, Six in the third place inevitably shows excessive action; above it one enters Kan, which is danger—there is danger ahead. Therefore the line statement uses an extremely vivid metaphor to offer sound advice. A noble person follows a deer into the forest, an unfamiliar forest. Eager to obtain the deer, he hunts without an experienced hunting official and faces the danger of losing his way. What should he do—continue pursuing or give up? The noble person is wise and chooses to give up.
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine in the fourth place of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the fourth place line statement
Six in the fourth place: Riding a horse, circling in place, seeking a marriage alliance. Go forward; it is auspicious and nothing is unfavorable.
The Image says: Seeking and going forward shows understanding.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the fourth place: Riding a horse-drawn carriage in circles on the spot, seeking a marriage alliance. Advance boldly and it will surely be auspicious.
The Image says: Daring to seek and bravely going deep show that the person clearly understands the situation.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line can accomplish their plans; all matters harmonize. Friends will help, bringing great good fortune. Officials will become renowned and may be promoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Act according to the trend and achieve great development.
Wealth: The benefits are clearly visible, so there should be gains.
Home: Marriage is auspicious.
Health: Follow the doctor’s instructions.
Six in the fourth place changing hexagram
When Six in the fourth place changes, it becomes Hexagram 17 of the Zhouyi: Lake over Thunder, Following. This is a differing hexagram, with Zhen below and Dui above, doubled together. Zhen is thunder and movement; Dui is joy. Movement accompanied by joy is “following.” Following means mutual compliance: oneself follows things, things can follow oneself, and both communicate. Following must accord with time and circumstances, with principles and conditions, taking steadfastness as its premise.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
Those who obtain this line should learn to act according to circumstances. If there is no capable assistant or the leader’s support, and you are not skilled at the task, give it up and do not proceed. If you are not talented in a particular area yet insist on accomplishing something in it, not only will the matter fail, but it will also bring blame and disaster.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Pursuing a deer without a forester is following after game. The noble person abandons it; going forward brings humiliation and reaches an impasse.”
This means: Chasing a wild deer without a hunting official’s guidance is merely following animals in pursuit, driven only by greed for game. The noble person should give it up. If one continues to chase, difficulties will arise, and one may even fall into destitution.
Those who obtain this line should take care when acting. Some matters can be done: the time, place, and people are favorable, and you have the ability, so you should undertake them without hesitation. Other matters cannot be done, and you lack the ability; even if mountains of gold and silver were placed before you, you still should not do them. If you only covet wealth and honor without considering whether you can or cannot do something, disaster will certainly occur. In such circumstances, abandon what should be abandoned and control your greed. Do not focus only on chasing the prey while ignoring your own situation.
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine in the fifth place of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the fifth place: Hoarding fat. For a small divination, auspicious; for a major divination, inauspicious.
The Image says: Hoarding fat means that charity has not spread widely.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fifth place: Hoarding fat. If this line appears in divination, asking about a small matter is auspicious; asking about a major matter is inauspicious.
The Image says: “Hoarding fat” means that charity is not widely extended.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should not be impatient when planning matters. Small matters can succeed; major matters have no hope and may even invite misfortune.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: With no one to promote you, there is temporarily no hope.
Wealth: A small business may still make a profit, but a large business is inauspicious.
Home: Accumulating wealth harms harmony.
Health: An illness at its beginning can be treated; a long-standing illness is dangerous.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
When Nine in the fifth place changes, it becomes Hexagram 24 of the Zhouyi: Earth over Thunder, Returning. This is a differing hexagram, with Zhen below and Kun above, doubled together. Zhen is thunder and movement; Kun is earth and compliance. Movement therefore follows the natural course. Movement within compliance, inner Yang and outer Yin, proceeds step by step and advances or retreats freely, favoring progress.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
From the hexagram image, Six in the fourth place is a yielding line in a yielding position, so it is properly placed. Those who obtain this line and wish to seek marriage need not hesitate, worrying that the other person dislikes them or will reject them. It is better to go boldly and pursue them. Although the process may appear difficult and full of setbacks, it is very auspicious and there are not as many difficulties as imagined.
The Image says: Seeking and going forward shows understanding.
This means: Pursuing firmly and without wavering is a wise course.
This line belongs to the Hexagram of Initial Difficulty, symbolizing the early birth of things, when difficulties are inevitable. One must never become disheartened and stop one’s steps or aspirations for that reason. Therefore, cast aside worry and pursue boldly.
Detailed explanation of the line of Nine at the top of the third Zhouyi hexagram
Upper Six line statement
Six at the top: Riding a horse, circling in place, weeping tears of blood in an endless stream.
The Image says: Weeping tears of blood in an endless stream—how could such a situation last long?
Explanation in plain language
Six at the top: Riding a horse-drawn carriage in circles on the spot, weeping silently with tears streaming down.
The Image says: Weeping silently with tears streaming down—how could such a scene continue for long?
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Inauspicious: Those who obtain this line will see the family decline and must guard against losses. Officials must beware of slander by petty people.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: There is no road ahead; preserving your life is the priority.
Wealth: Indecision causes the loss of every good opportunity.
Home: The family’s fortunes decline.
Health: Vomiting blood; inauspicious.
Upper Six changing hexagram
When Six at the top changes, it becomes Hexagram 42 of the Zhouyi: Wind over Thunder, Increase. This is a differing hexagram, with Zhen below and Xun above, doubled together. Xun is wind; Zhen is thunder. Wind and thunder surge together, growing ever stronger; thunder grows louder, and wind and thunder mutually assist and increase one another. This hexagram is opposite to Decrease: it diminishes the upper to benefit the lower, whereas Decrease diminishes the lower to benefit the upper. The two hexagrams explain the principles of decrease and increase.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
We know that in the I Ching, the position of Nine in the fifth place is honored. Nine in the fifth place lies within Kan, and Kan represents clouds. Clouds are gathered droplets of water that have not yet transformed into rain, hence “hoarding fat.” If an emperor obtains this hexagram, it indicates that his grace has not been broadly distributed. The emperor should understand the way of giving and keeping: if he stores little wealth for himself and gives much to the people, it will be auspicious. Otherwise, it will be inauspicious.
The Image says: “Hoarding fat”—charity has not been made radiant.
This points out that someone who only hoards wealth for himself and pays no attention to helping others, even if he wants to accomplish something, has an unpromising future.
If an ordinary person obtains this hexagram, they must understand the principle of choosing what to keep and what to give up. Only hoarding wealth and ignoring help for others is very dangerous. By doing so, small matters may possibly succeed, but major matters will inevitably become perilous. Therefore, do not focus only on your own money pouch; “extend your grace widely.” Only by understanding when to give up can you avoid misfortune and move toward good fortune.