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I Ching · 64 Hexagrams
Zhouyi, I Ching, Hexagram 6, the Song hexagram, Heaven over Water, Qian above Kan below
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Song: There is trust, but one must be blocked and vigilant; in the middle, good fortune. Ultimately, misfortune. It is beneficial to see the great person; it is not beneficial to cross the great river.
The Tuan Commentary says: Song has strength above and danger below; danger combined with strength produces dispute. Song has trust, blockage, vigilance, and good fortune in the middle because firmness has come and attained the center. Ultimately there is misfortune because a dispute cannot be brought to completion. It is beneficial to see the great person because one honors centered correctness. It is not beneficial to cross the great river because one enters the abyss.
The Image says: Heaven and water move contrary to each other—Song. Thus the superior person plans carefully at the beginning of any undertaking.
Hexagram 6 — original text and overview
Detailed explanation of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Original text of the Song hexagram
Song. There is trust, blockage, and vigilance; in the middle, good fortune, ultimately misfortune. It is beneficial to see the great person; it is not beneficial to cross the great river.
The Image says: Heaven and water move contrary to each other—Song. Thus the superior person plans the beginning of any undertaking.
Explanation in plain language
The Song hexagram: Although there is profit to be gained (capturing a prisoner), one must remain alert and cautious. The matter is auspicious in the middle but dangerous later. In divination, this line indicates that it is beneficial to meet nobles and princes but not beneficial to cross a river.
The Image Commentary says: The upper trigram is Qian, which is heaven; the lower trigram is Kan, which is water. Heaven and water are separated, flowing in opposite directions and violating proper principles; this is the image of Song. Observing this image, the superior person intends to prevent disputes, so at the beginning of any plan they must be extremely cautious.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Song hexagram has Qian above and Kan below and is a wandering-soul hexagram of the Li palace. Qian above is strength; Kan below is danger. With one side strong and the other treacherous, dispute inevitably arises, so there is often misfortune.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
The sky is high and the water deep; those far apart do not draw close. Plan cautiously and withdraw to defend; reverence and awe bring no misfortune.
Those who obtain this hexagram are uneasy in body and mind, and many matters go poorly. They will often be involved in disputes and lawsuits with others, so they should cultivate themselves, nurture their character, and handle affairs cautiously.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Career fame is obstructed; do not make enemies.
Finances: Begin cautiously; profit can ultimately be gained.
Home: A gentleman must seek a virtuous woman.
Health: Prevention is better than treatment.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This is a complementary hexagram (Kan below, Qian above) doubled. It is opposite to the Xu hexagram and forms its paired inverted hexagram. Qian means firmness and vigor; Kan means danger and entrapment. Firmness opposes danger, and vigor opposes entrapment, so dispute is bound to arise. Dispute is not a good thing; one must be extremely cautious and vigilant.
Great Image: Qian Heaven rises above while Kan Water descends below; moving in opposite directions gives rise to dispute.
Fortune: Things go against your wishes and nothing proceeds smoothly; petty people cause harm, so guard against traps.
Career: Things are initially smooth and profitable, then setbacks arise. You must remain alert and extremely cautious, avoid clinging stubbornly to your own views, and do everything possible to avoid becoming involved in litigation and disputes. Rather than doing that, withdraw and yield to others, seek resolution, and rest content with what is right; this can avert unexpected disaster. Once caught in litigation, even if you win, you will still lose in the end—a poor exchange.
Business: Harmony creates wealth, and accepting a loss can be a blessing; never pursue unrighteous wealth. Commercial negotiations should uphold fairness, justice, and mutual benefit, avoiding conflict as much as possible. This will produce a good result.
Seeking recognition: Unfavorable. You still lack competitive strength, so hold fast to purity, endure patiently, encourage yourself, and grow stronger; do not show off your strength. Rely on help from people of status and get through the difficulty early.
Love and marriage: Although it may not fully satisfy either party, the match is nevertheless suitable. Mutual understanding makes it possible. Both sides should handle life together gently.
Decision: You are competitive and ambitious, unwilling to remain as you are, and strive to change your fate and surpass others. You are intelligent and quick-witted, with the help of influential people. However, you lack perseverance, easily display your sharpness, offend others, and invite the disaster of litigation. It is advisable to acknowledge reality, follow the natural course, be content, and stop at the proper point. If you accept the lessons and take them as a warning, you can achieve success and fame.
The philosophical meaning of the sixth hexagram
The Song hexagram is formed by two different trigrams stacked together, with Kan below and Qian above. Qian is firmness and vigor; Kan is danger and entrapment. Firmness and danger, vigor and entrapment oppose each other, inevitably producing dispute. Dispute is not a good thing, so one must be extremely cautious and vigilant.
The Song hexagram follows the Xu hexagram and is opposite to it, forming paired inverted hexagrams. The Sequence of the Hexagrams says: “Eating and drinking must lead to dispute, so Song follows it.” People litigate with one another because they compete to obtain what they need.
The Image says: Heaven and water move contrary to each other—Conflict. Thus the noble person plans the beginning when undertaking affairs.
In the Conflict hexagram, the upper trigram is Qian, representing Heaven and yang, whose nature is to rise; the lower trigram is Kan, representing water and yang, whose nature is to descend. The two trigrams, being of the same nature, repel each other. Heaven rises while water flows downward, their aims opposed—this is the image of Conflict. It is like people each harboring selfish motives and thinking only of their own interests, unable to reach unity of thought. Thus, while competing for benefits, people provoke strife, and in the end can resolve it only through litigation.
The image of Conflict contains the two words “mouth” and “tongue,” indicating the cause of trouble; beneath a mountain lies a sleeping tiger, indicating alarm and fear; a document in the clouds indicates distance and that litigation has not yet begun; a person standing beneath the tiger indicates alarm at the end. If the diviner obtains this, they should be cautious when going out and coming in. This is the hexagram of a swift eagle pursuing a rabbit.
Original text of the Song hexagram
Song. There is trust, blockage, and vigilance; in the middle, good fortune, ultimately misfortune. It is beneficial to see the great person; it is not beneficial to cross the great river.
The Image says: Heaven and water move contrary to each other—Song. Thus the superior person plans the beginning of any undertaking.
Explanation in plain language
The Song hexagram: Although there is profit to be gained (capturing a prisoner), one must remain alert and cautious. The matter is auspicious in the middle but dangerous later. In divination, this line indicates that it is beneficial to meet nobles and princes but not beneficial to cross a river.
The Image Commentary says: The upper trigram is Qian, which is heaven; the lower trigram is Kan, which is water. Heaven and water are separated, flowing in opposite directions and violating proper principles; this is the image of Song. Observing this image, the superior person intends to prevent disputes, so at the beginning of any plan they must be extremely cautious.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Song hexagram has Qian above and Kan below and is a wandering-soul hexagram of the Li palace. Qian above is strength; Kan below is danger. With one side strong and the other treacherous, dispute inevitably arises, so there is often misfortune.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
The sky is high and the water deep; those far apart do not draw close. Plan cautiously and withdraw to defend; reverence and awe bring no misfortune.
Those who obtain this hexagram are uneasy in body and mind, and many matters go poorly. They will often be involved in disputes and lawsuits with others, so they should cultivate themselves, nurture their character, and handle affairs cautiously.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Career fame is obstructed; do not make enemies.
Finances: Begin cautiously; profit can ultimately be gained.
Home: A gentleman must seek a virtuous woman.
Health: Prevention is better than treatment.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This is a complementary hexagram (Kan below, Qian above) doubled. It is opposite to the Xu hexagram and forms its paired inverted hexagram. Qian means firmness and vigor; Kan means danger and entrapment. Firmness opposes danger, and vigor opposes entrapment, so dispute is bound to arise. Dispute is not a good thing; one must be extremely cautious and vigilant.
Great Image: Qian Heaven rises above while Kan Water descends below; moving in opposite directions gives rise to dispute.
Fortune: Things go against your wishes and nothing proceeds smoothly; petty people cause harm, so guard against traps.
Career: Things are initially smooth and profitable, then setbacks arise. You must remain alert and extremely cautious, avoid clinging stubbornly to your own views, and do everything possible to avoid becoming involved in litigation and disputes. Rather than doing that, withdraw and yield to others, seek resolution, and rest content with what is right; this can avert unexpected disaster. Once caught in litigation, even if you win, you will still lose in the end—a poor exchange.
Business: Harmony creates wealth, and accepting a loss can be a blessing; never pursue unrighteous wealth. Commercial negotiations should uphold fairness, justice, and mutual benefit, avoiding conflict as much as possible. This will produce a good result.
Seeking recognition: Unfavorable. You still lack competitive strength, so hold fast to purity, endure patiently, encourage yourself, and grow stronger; do not show off your strength. Rely on help from people of status and get through the difficulty early.
Love and marriage: Although it may not fully satisfy either party, the match is nevertheless suitable. Mutual understanding makes it possible. Both sides should handle life together gently.
Decision: You are competitive and ambitious, unwilling to remain as you are, and strive to change your fate and surpass others. You are intelligent and quick-witted, with the help of influential people. However, you lack perseverance, easily display your sharpness, offend others, and invite the disaster of litigation. It is advisable to acknowledge reality, follow the natural course, be content, and stop at the proper point. If you accept the lessons and take them as a warning, you can achieve success and fame.
The philosophical meaning of the sixth hexagram
The Song hexagram is formed by two different trigrams stacked together, with Kan below and Qian above. Qian is firmness and vigor; Kan is danger and entrapment. Firmness and danger, vigor and entrapment oppose each other, inevitably producing dispute. Dispute is not a good thing, so one must be extremely cautious and vigilant.
The Song hexagram follows the Xu hexagram and is opposite to it, forming paired inverted hexagrams. The Sequence of the Hexagrams says: “Eating and drinking must lead to dispute, so Song follows it.” People litigate with one another because they compete to obtain what they need.
The Image says: Heaven and water move contrary to each other—Conflict. Thus the noble person plans the beginning when undertaking affairs.
In the Conflict hexagram, the upper trigram is Qian, representing Heaven and yang, whose nature is to rise; the lower trigram is Kan, representing water and yang, whose nature is to descend. The two trigrams, being of the same nature, repel each other. Heaven rises while water flows downward, their aims opposed—this is the image of Conflict. It is like people each harboring selfish motives and thinking only of their own interests, unable to reach unity of thought. Thus, while competing for benefits, people provoke strife, and in the end can resolve it only through litigation.
The image of Conflict contains the two words “mouth” and “tongue,” indicating the cause of trouble; beneath a mountain lies a sleeping tiger, indicating alarm and fear; a document in the clouds indicates distance and that litigation has not yet begun; a person standing beneath the tiger indicates alarm at the end. If the diviner obtains this, they should be cautious when going out and coming in. This is the hexagram of a swift eagle pursuing a rabbit.
Hexagram 6 — line-by-line explanation
Detailed explanation of the Initial Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Initial Six line statement
Nine at the beginning. Do not perpetuate the affair; there is a little talk, but in the end good fortune.
The Image says: Do not perpetuate the affair—the Conflict cannot last; although there is a little talk, the issue will be clarified.
Explanation in plain language
Nine at the beginning: One cannot persevere in carrying on an affair; after a minor mistake, the outcome is still auspicious.
The Image Commentary says: One cannot persevere in carrying on an affair; this shows that the lawsuit cannot continue for long. Although there is a minor mistake, the rights and wrongs of both sides will ultimately be distinguished clearly.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line will encounter disputes, but the outcome is ultimately auspicious. The sick will recover without medicine. An official may suffer slander, but his innocence will become clear without argument.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: You will not remain trapped for long; in the end you can become known.
Wealth: Sell in time; disputes over words will cause no obstruction.
Home: There may be some disagreement; clarify the matter and it will be fine.
Health: A recent illness can be cured; a long-standing illness is ominous.
Initial Six changing hexagram
!["周易第6卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_6_1.png)
When the Initial Six line changes, it produces Hexagram 10: Heaven over Lake, Treading. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Lake below and Heaven above. Qian represents Heaven and Dui represents Lake; Heaven is likened to the ruler and Lake to the people. The original text says: “Treading on the tiger’s tail; it does not bite the person.” Therefore, the outcome is auspicious. The ruler is above and the people below, and each is in its proper place. The yielding Dui meets the firm Qian, so what is being trodden is dangerous. Treading means putting principles into practice; the meaning of the hexagram is to advance steadfastly and realistically.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The Conflict hexagram represents disputes. The Initial Six may be regarded as the beginning stage. A yielding line in a yielding position, with an obedient character, shows that the person will not carry the dispute on for long. There may be a minor verbal quarrel, but the final outcome will be auspicious.
Those who obtain this line should learn from Lin Xiangru’s conduct. Conflicts between people are unavoidable. Once a conflict occurs, as this line’s meaning indicates, the best course is to dissolve it quickly, reach reconciliation, and end the struggle in the state of “a little talk,” rather than expand and continue it.
Those who obtain this line: If someone says one wrong thing or does one wrong deed, it is acceptable to mention it occasionally; only in this way will there be good fortune. Do not keep harping on it, or you will provoke trouble.
Those who obtain the Conflict hexagram: Because its inner trigram is Kan, it indicates a self-important temperament. Although the person wishes to cooperate with others, they are often arrogant and disrespectful, fond of acting as a teacher, and thereby provoke disputes. Those who obtain this line should take care to restrain themselves.
Detailed explanation of the Second Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Second Nine line
Nine in the second place. Unable to win the Conflict, return and flee; the people of the settlement, three hundred households, are free from misfortune.
The Image says: Unable to win the Conflict, return and flee. To litigate from below against one above is to invite trouble.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the second place: The lawsuit fails; on returning to the fief, three hundred household slaves flee. There is no major calamity.
The Image Commentary says: The lawsuit fails and one flees home; this is avoiding a counter-suit. When a minor official litigates against a senior official, defeat and return are inevitable. Fortunately, the disaster does not spread further.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line will remain safe and unharmed. An official will enjoy the honor of possessing a fief.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Withdraw and live in seclusion to remain unharmed.
Wealth: There will be a small loss; do not worry excessively.
Home: Marriage is not advisable.
Health: Contract an illness away from home; return home to recuperate.
Transformation of the Second Nine line
!["周易第6卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_6_2.png)
When the Second Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 12: Heaven and Earth Obstructed. This is a contrasting hexagram, with Kun below and Qian above. Its structure is the reverse of Peace: yang energy rises, yin energy descends, Heaven and Earth do not interact, and nothing can communicate. These two are nuclear inverses, showing that when Peace reaches its extreme, Obstruction follows, and when Obstruction reaches its extreme, Peace returns; each is the cause of the other.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
Interpretation of the second line statement of the Conflict hexagram
Ke means victory. “Win the Conflict” is similar to winning a lawsuit. Bu means to flee. Sheng means a calamity caused by one’s own actions.
Yi is the fief of a great officer. Three hundred households is the territory of a minor great officer.
The meaning of this line is: The litigation does not succeed; one returns and takes refuge, while the three hundred households of the fief suffer no calamity.
From the hexagram image, the Second Nine is a yang line in a yin position. Although it is out of position, it occupies the central place. Within this hexagram,
Only the Second Nine and Fifth Nine are yang lines. The Fifth Nine, a yang line in a yang position, occupies the honored position and the position of the great person; it is centered and upright in the ruler’s place. The Second Nine, however, is the second line of the lower trigram, and its status is clearly lower than that of the Fifth Nine. The Second Nine and Fifth Nine are hostile-response partners, and the two sides have entered a dispute over some matter. The Second Nine is of course no match for the Fifth Nine, but relies on its own opinion, believing that no matter how powerful or high-ranking the opponent is, if it is in the right, it can still argue the case. Yet one must understand that a subordinate cannot offend a superior, just as earth cannot press against Heaven. The Fifth Nine is honored, and the Second Nine challenging it amounts to a subordinate defying a superior. In the centralized society of that time, this was inviting disaster, and it plainly could not win the lawsuit.
According to the hexagram image, the lower trigram is Kan, which represents danger, and the Second Nine is exactly at the center of Kan, in the midst of danger; therefore, the lawsuit is unfavorable to it. Fortunately, the Second Nine recognized the situation and did not continue its hostility. Instead, it chose avoidance and fled back to its home region. In this way it barely escaped trouble, and the people of its town were not implicated.
Those who obtain this line: If you are engaged in litigation, understand the situation clearly. If it is unfavorable and the other side has an obvious advantage, first avoid the matter to prevent disaster. Find a place for leisure to clear your mind and temporarily stay away for a few days; right and wrong will then dissipate without a fight. Thus this line mainly tells people to avoid at the proper time.
Detailed explanation of the Third Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Six in the third place line statement
Six in the third place. Feed on old virtue; perseverance is perilous, but in the end good fortune. Perhaps follow the king’s affairs; there will be no achievement.
The Image says: Feed on old virtue; following those above brings good fortune.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the third place: Rely on the inherited work of one’s predecessors for a living. Divination gives an ominous sign, but in the end it is auspicious. However, if one serves the king’s affairs in pursuit of office and emolument, one will not succeed.
The Image Commentary says: Living by relying on the inherited achievements of one’s forebears, because the image of the Third Six line shows that, being below the Fourth Nine, one gains auspiciousness only by relying on the remaining protection of one’s ancestors.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should maintain the normal state and will avoid disaster. An official should carefully hold to the regular duties of the post; promotion is unlikely.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Hold to the old occupation; seeking office will not succeed.
Wealth: Hold on to the family property; in the end profit can be gained.
Home: It is not advisable to build a new residence elsewhere.
Health: Follow the original doctor’s instructions.
Six in the third place changing hexagram
!["周易第6卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_6_3.png)
When the Third Six line changes, it produces Hexagram 44: Heaven over Wind, Coming to Meet. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Wind below and Heaven above. Qian represents Heaven and Xun represents Wind. Wind exists beneath Heaven, blowing across the whole earth; yin and yang unite, and all things flourish. The Gou hexagram is the opposite of the Breakthrough hexagram, and the two are nuclear inverses. Gou means union: yin and yang encounter each other. But with five yang lines and one yin line, they cannot remain together for long.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
Shi means food and drink, extended to mean preference and preservation.
“Old virtue” refers to one’s existing merits, or the merits left by one’s ancestors. “Feeding on old virtue” means preserving one’s former merits, or enjoying the protection left by one’s ancestors—in other words, living off past capital.
This line statement has two interpretations. First, it means enjoying one’s ancestors’ protection: holding firmly to what is right brings danger but ultimately auspiciousness; or, when working for the ruler, one achieves nothing. Second, it means comfortably enjoying an old stipend while observing the right path. Although the divination encounters an ominous sign of danger, the final result is still auspicious; even after rendering great service to the state and ruler, one does not claim the achievement as one’s own.
Those who obtain this line should also note that they must not live off past capital for too long. This past capital may mean wealth or virtue left by ancestors, or past personal connections. One should carefully assess current conditions and demand strict standards of oneself: while preserving former wealth and relationships, one must also create new undertakings and establish new networks.
The Third Six does not compete with the world and can live by relying on the protection left by its ancestors. Since it does not contend with others, it is naturally auspicious. The Third Six corresponds with the Top Nine, and the Top Nine is the position of the ancestral temple; therefore, the hexagram image shows the Third Six benefiting from the ancestral temple.
Detailed explanation of the Fourth Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Fourth Nine line
Nine in the fourth place. Unable to win the Conflict, return to the mandate; change and rest in correctness—good fortune.
The Image says: Return to the mandate, change and rest in correctness—good fortune; there is no loss.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fourth place: The lawsuit fails; after returning home, obey the judgment. Divination concerning safety brings an auspicious sign.
The Image Commentary says: Return home after losing the lawsuit, obey the judgment, and peacefully keep to one’s proper place; thus the correct path is not lost.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line will turn danger into safety. An official may be restored to office during a period of leisure.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Turn danger into safety.
Wealth: The partnership fails, which is actually a good thing.
Home: Changing the marriage arrangement does not violate the proper way.
Health: There is danger; changing one’s way of life brings good fortune.
Transformation of the Fourth Nine line
!["周易第6卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_6_4.png)
When the Fourth Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 59: Wind over Water, Dispersion. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Water below and Wind above. Wind moves across the water, pushing and spreading the waves in all directions. Dispersion means water flowing and scattering. It symbolizes an organization and people’s hearts becoming dispersed; active means and methods must be used to overcome the defects, remedy the dispersion, and turn danger into safety.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
Fu means restoration. Ming means mandate or destiny. “Return to the mandate” means restoring the original state of destiny.
Yu means change.
The meaning of this line is: The litigation does not succeed; return to one’s original state, be content with the present, hold firmly to the correct path, and good fortune follows.
From the hexagram image, the Fourth Nine has already entered the upper trigram. It is a firm line in a yielding position, out of position and not central. It is overly forceful and competitive, and therefore lacks popular support. After understanding its own mistake, the Fourth Nine changes its contentious character and thereby gains auspiciousness.
Those who obtain this line cannot win in disputes or lawsuits. When this happens, although you may feel dissatisfied, defiant, and furious, restrain yourself and accept the result. Return to the normal course of life; do not let the lawsuit or dispute disrupt ordinary life and work, and do not harm others to vent your resentment. Do not think of revenge. Accept the legal judgment as an arrangement of destiny, return home, and continue your former life; only then will there be good fortune.
Detailed explanation of the Fifth Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the fifth place. Conflict; supreme good fortune.
The Image says: Conflict brings supreme good fortune because it is centered and correct.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fifth place: In a dispute, if divination obtains this line, there is great good fortune.
The Image Commentary says: Engaging in dispute brings great auspiciousness, because the Fifth Nine occupies the central position of the upper trigram, like a person who observes the way of centrality and uprightness.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line will have great fortune in business, plans, and seeking wealth. An official will be entrusted with important responsibilities. A scholar will achieve excellent results.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Seek advancement through correctness; you will surely shine.
Wealth: Conduct business fairly and obtain legitimate wealth.
Home: Marry into a wealthy and honored family.
Health: Breathing and energy-regulation practices preserve health.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
!["周易第6卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_6_5.png)
When the Fifth Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 64: Fire over Water, Before Completion. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Water below and Fire above. Li represents Fire and Kan represents Water. Fire is above and water below; the force of the fire overwhelms that of the water, yet the task of putting out the fire has not been completed, hence the name Before Completion. The Zhouyi begins with Qian and Kun and ends with Completion and Before Completion, fully reflecting the idea of change and development.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
Interpretation of the fifth line statement of the Conflict hexagram: Supreme good fortune means great auspiciousness.
The meaning of this line is: The lawsuit receives a just judgment; supreme good fortune.
This is the fifth line of the Conflict hexagram. For someone who obtains this line, a lawsuit will certainly end in complete victory. The reason for winning is that the person encounters a fair judge and fortunately meets a noble helper. Within the Conflict hexagram, the Fifth Nine is a yang line in a firm position, exactly where it belongs. This indicates that the great person is in the proper position and handles litigation with a fair and rigorous attitude. Therefore, the case will be resolved justly. Clearly, for a lawsuit to receive a fair resolution, it is not enough for you to be in the right; it also depends on whether the judge you meet is fair. The story of Judge Bao defending Qin Xianglian’s justice and angrily executing Chen Shimei expresses precisely the meaning of this line.
Detailed explanation of the Top Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Top Nine line
Topmost Nine. Someone may be awarded a ceremonial belt, but before the day ends it will be taken away three times.
The Image says: To receive official robes through litigation is not worthy of respect.
Explanation in plain language
Topmost Nine: A feudal lord bestows a ceremonial belt on someone, but before the day is over it is bestowed and stripped away three times.
The Image Commentary says: Someone receives the honor of an official belt because of litigation; this is not a matter worthy of respect.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line may face worries over disputes or lawsuits. They should cultivate virtue and nurture their well-being, turning major problems into minor ones. Officials may experience both success and failure, and suffer from anxiety over gains and losses. Students who study diligently are sure to achieve good results.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Anxiety over gains and losses is truly not worthwhile.
Wealth: It is not legitimate wealth; the gain does not compensate for the loss.
Home: It is difficult to live in peace.
Health: The illness improves and worsens by turns; there is fear of an ominous outcome.
Transformation of the Top Nine line
!["周易第6卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_6_6.png)
When the Top Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 47: Lake over Water, Exhaustion. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Water below and Lake above. Dui represents yin, Lake, and joy; Kan represents yang, Water, and danger. Lake over Water signifies being trapped in hardship: one’s talents and intelligence are difficult to put into practice. Yet by remaining firm in the right path and finding joy within oneself, one can accomplish things and escape the predicament.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
Interpretation of the sixth line statement of the Conflict hexagram
Xi is the same as bestow, meaning to grant. A ceremonial belt is a broad belt, part of ancient official attire. Chi means to strip off clothing. The meaning of this line is: One may be granted the broad belt of official attire, but within a single day it is stripped away repeatedly.
Our culture values “patience is precious, harmony is supreme.” Those who obtain this hexagram may love bringing lawsuits and rely on strength to contend, eventually gaining certain benefits, including a chance at promotion, wearing official robes and a ceremonial belt. Yet because this conduct violates traditional culture, public opinion condemns it, and gaining office this way is considered dishonorable. Because people evaluate you poorly, it will affect your superiors’ impression of you. You may be unable to keep your office, and may even have your official robes stripped off repeatedly in one day—that is, be dismissed several times. Your position is unstable and extremely dangerous.
Those who obtain this line should be careful about matters such as changing homes, renting a home, promotion, and a pay raise; they may be toyed with repeatedly. Of course, take care not to go back on your word to others or toy with them.
Initial Six line statement
Nine at the beginning. Do not perpetuate the affair; there is a little talk, but in the end good fortune.
The Image says: Do not perpetuate the affair—the Conflict cannot last; although there is a little talk, the issue will be clarified.
Explanation in plain language
Nine at the beginning: One cannot persevere in carrying on an affair; after a minor mistake, the outcome is still auspicious.
The Image Commentary says: One cannot persevere in carrying on an affair; this shows that the lawsuit cannot continue for long. Although there is a minor mistake, the rights and wrongs of both sides will ultimately be distinguished clearly.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line will encounter disputes, but the outcome is ultimately auspicious. The sick will recover without medicine. An official may suffer slander, but his innocence will become clear without argument.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: You will not remain trapped for long; in the end you can become known.
Wealth: Sell in time; disputes over words will cause no obstruction.
Home: There may be some disagreement; clarify the matter and it will be fine.
Health: A recent illness can be cured; a long-standing illness is ominous.
Initial Six changing hexagram
When the Initial Six line changes, it produces Hexagram 10: Heaven over Lake, Treading. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Lake below and Heaven above. Qian represents Heaven and Dui represents Lake; Heaven is likened to the ruler and Lake to the people. The original text says: “Treading on the tiger’s tail; it does not bite the person.” Therefore, the outcome is auspicious. The ruler is above and the people below, and each is in its proper place. The yielding Dui meets the firm Qian, so what is being trodden is dangerous. Treading means putting principles into practice; the meaning of the hexagram is to advance steadfastly and realistically.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The Conflict hexagram represents disputes. The Initial Six may be regarded as the beginning stage. A yielding line in a yielding position, with an obedient character, shows that the person will not carry the dispute on for long. There may be a minor verbal quarrel, but the final outcome will be auspicious.
Those who obtain this line should learn from Lin Xiangru’s conduct. Conflicts between people are unavoidable. Once a conflict occurs, as this line’s meaning indicates, the best course is to dissolve it quickly, reach reconciliation, and end the struggle in the state of “a little talk,” rather than expand and continue it.
Those who obtain this line: If someone says one wrong thing or does one wrong deed, it is acceptable to mention it occasionally; only in this way will there be good fortune. Do not keep harping on it, or you will provoke trouble.
Those who obtain the Conflict hexagram: Because its inner trigram is Kan, it indicates a self-important temperament. Although the person wishes to cooperate with others, they are often arrogant and disrespectful, fond of acting as a teacher, and thereby provoke disputes. Those who obtain this line should take care to restrain themselves.
Detailed explanation of the Second Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Second Nine line
Nine in the second place. Unable to win the Conflict, return and flee; the people of the settlement, three hundred households, are free from misfortune.
The Image says: Unable to win the Conflict, return and flee. To litigate from below against one above is to invite trouble.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the second place: The lawsuit fails; on returning to the fief, three hundred household slaves flee. There is no major calamity.
The Image Commentary says: The lawsuit fails and one flees home; this is avoiding a counter-suit. When a minor official litigates against a senior official, defeat and return are inevitable. Fortunately, the disaster does not spread further.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line will remain safe and unharmed. An official will enjoy the honor of possessing a fief.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Withdraw and live in seclusion to remain unharmed.
Wealth: There will be a small loss; do not worry excessively.
Home: Marriage is not advisable.
Health: Contract an illness away from home; return home to recuperate.
Transformation of the Second Nine line
When the Second Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 12: Heaven and Earth Obstructed. This is a contrasting hexagram, with Kun below and Qian above. Its structure is the reverse of Peace: yang energy rises, yin energy descends, Heaven and Earth do not interact, and nothing can communicate. These two are nuclear inverses, showing that when Peace reaches its extreme, Obstruction follows, and when Obstruction reaches its extreme, Peace returns; each is the cause of the other.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
Interpretation of the second line statement of the Conflict hexagram
Ke means victory. “Win the Conflict” is similar to winning a lawsuit. Bu means to flee. Sheng means a calamity caused by one’s own actions.
Yi is the fief of a great officer. Three hundred households is the territory of a minor great officer.
The meaning of this line is: The litigation does not succeed; one returns and takes refuge, while the three hundred households of the fief suffer no calamity.
From the hexagram image, the Second Nine is a yang line in a yin position. Although it is out of position, it occupies the central place. Within this hexagram,
Only the Second Nine and Fifth Nine are yang lines. The Fifth Nine, a yang line in a yang position, occupies the honored position and the position of the great person; it is centered and upright in the ruler’s place. The Second Nine, however, is the second line of the lower trigram, and its status is clearly lower than that of the Fifth Nine. The Second Nine and Fifth Nine are hostile-response partners, and the two sides have entered a dispute over some matter. The Second Nine is of course no match for the Fifth Nine, but relies on its own opinion, believing that no matter how powerful or high-ranking the opponent is, if it is in the right, it can still argue the case. Yet one must understand that a subordinate cannot offend a superior, just as earth cannot press against Heaven. The Fifth Nine is honored, and the Second Nine challenging it amounts to a subordinate defying a superior. In the centralized society of that time, this was inviting disaster, and it plainly could not win the lawsuit.
According to the hexagram image, the lower trigram is Kan, which represents danger, and the Second Nine is exactly at the center of Kan, in the midst of danger; therefore, the lawsuit is unfavorable to it. Fortunately, the Second Nine recognized the situation and did not continue its hostility. Instead, it chose avoidance and fled back to its home region. In this way it barely escaped trouble, and the people of its town were not implicated.
Those who obtain this line: If you are engaged in litigation, understand the situation clearly. If it is unfavorable and the other side has an obvious advantage, first avoid the matter to prevent disaster. Find a place for leisure to clear your mind and temporarily stay away for a few days; right and wrong will then dissipate without a fight. Thus this line mainly tells people to avoid at the proper time.
Detailed explanation of the Third Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Six in the third place line statement
Six in the third place. Feed on old virtue; perseverance is perilous, but in the end good fortune. Perhaps follow the king’s affairs; there will be no achievement.
The Image says: Feed on old virtue; following those above brings good fortune.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the third place: Rely on the inherited work of one’s predecessors for a living. Divination gives an ominous sign, but in the end it is auspicious. However, if one serves the king’s affairs in pursuit of office and emolument, one will not succeed.
The Image Commentary says: Living by relying on the inherited achievements of one’s forebears, because the image of the Third Six line shows that, being below the Fourth Nine, one gains auspiciousness only by relying on the remaining protection of one’s ancestors.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should maintain the normal state and will avoid disaster. An official should carefully hold to the regular duties of the post; promotion is unlikely.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Hold to the old occupation; seeking office will not succeed.
Wealth: Hold on to the family property; in the end profit can be gained.
Home: It is not advisable to build a new residence elsewhere.
Health: Follow the original doctor’s instructions.
Six in the third place changing hexagram
When the Third Six line changes, it produces Hexagram 44: Heaven over Wind, Coming to Meet. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Wind below and Heaven above. Qian represents Heaven and Xun represents Wind. Wind exists beneath Heaven, blowing across the whole earth; yin and yang unite, and all things flourish. The Gou hexagram is the opposite of the Breakthrough hexagram, and the two are nuclear inverses. Gou means union: yin and yang encounter each other. But with five yang lines and one yin line, they cannot remain together for long.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
Shi means food and drink, extended to mean preference and preservation.
“Old virtue” refers to one’s existing merits, or the merits left by one’s ancestors. “Feeding on old virtue” means preserving one’s former merits, or enjoying the protection left by one’s ancestors—in other words, living off past capital.
This line statement has two interpretations. First, it means enjoying one’s ancestors’ protection: holding firmly to what is right brings danger but ultimately auspiciousness; or, when working for the ruler, one achieves nothing. Second, it means comfortably enjoying an old stipend while observing the right path. Although the divination encounters an ominous sign of danger, the final result is still auspicious; even after rendering great service to the state and ruler, one does not claim the achievement as one’s own.
Those who obtain this line should also note that they must not live off past capital for too long. This past capital may mean wealth or virtue left by ancestors, or past personal connections. One should carefully assess current conditions and demand strict standards of oneself: while preserving former wealth and relationships, one must also create new undertakings and establish new networks.
The Third Six does not compete with the world and can live by relying on the protection left by its ancestors. Since it does not contend with others, it is naturally auspicious. The Third Six corresponds with the Top Nine, and the Top Nine is the position of the ancestral temple; therefore, the hexagram image shows the Third Six benefiting from the ancestral temple.
Detailed explanation of the Fourth Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Fourth Nine line
Nine in the fourth place. Unable to win the Conflict, return to the mandate; change and rest in correctness—good fortune.
The Image says: Return to the mandate, change and rest in correctness—good fortune; there is no loss.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fourth place: The lawsuit fails; after returning home, obey the judgment. Divination concerning safety brings an auspicious sign.
The Image Commentary says: Return home after losing the lawsuit, obey the judgment, and peacefully keep to one’s proper place; thus the correct path is not lost.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line will turn danger into safety. An official may be restored to office during a period of leisure.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Turn danger into safety.
Wealth: The partnership fails, which is actually a good thing.
Home: Changing the marriage arrangement does not violate the proper way.
Health: There is danger; changing one’s way of life brings good fortune.
Transformation of the Fourth Nine line
When the Fourth Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 59: Wind over Water, Dispersion. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Water below and Wind above. Wind moves across the water, pushing and spreading the waves in all directions. Dispersion means water flowing and scattering. It symbolizes an organization and people’s hearts becoming dispersed; active means and methods must be used to overcome the defects, remedy the dispersion, and turn danger into safety.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
Fu means restoration. Ming means mandate or destiny. “Return to the mandate” means restoring the original state of destiny.
Yu means change.
The meaning of this line is: The litigation does not succeed; return to one’s original state, be content with the present, hold firmly to the correct path, and good fortune follows.
From the hexagram image, the Fourth Nine has already entered the upper trigram. It is a firm line in a yielding position, out of position and not central. It is overly forceful and competitive, and therefore lacks popular support. After understanding its own mistake, the Fourth Nine changes its contentious character and thereby gains auspiciousness.
Those who obtain this line cannot win in disputes or lawsuits. When this happens, although you may feel dissatisfied, defiant, and furious, restrain yourself and accept the result. Return to the normal course of life; do not let the lawsuit or dispute disrupt ordinary life and work, and do not harm others to vent your resentment. Do not think of revenge. Accept the legal judgment as an arrangement of destiny, return home, and continue your former life; only then will there be good fortune.
Detailed explanation of the Fifth Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the fifth place. Conflict; supreme good fortune.
The Image says: Conflict brings supreme good fortune because it is centered and correct.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fifth place: In a dispute, if divination obtains this line, there is great good fortune.
The Image Commentary says: Engaging in dispute brings great auspiciousness, because the Fifth Nine occupies the central position of the upper trigram, like a person who observes the way of centrality and uprightness.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Auspicious: Those who obtain this line will have great fortune in business, plans, and seeking wealth. An official will be entrusted with important responsibilities. A scholar will achieve excellent results.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Seek advancement through correctness; you will surely shine.
Wealth: Conduct business fairly and obtain legitimate wealth.
Home: Marry into a wealthy and honored family.
Health: Breathing and energy-regulation practices preserve health.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
When the Fifth Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 64: Fire over Water, Before Completion. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Water below and Fire above. Li represents Fire and Kan represents Water. Fire is above and water below; the force of the fire overwhelms that of the water, yet the task of putting out the fire has not been completed, hence the name Before Completion. The Zhouyi begins with Qian and Kun and ends with Completion and Before Completion, fully reflecting the idea of change and development.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
Interpretation of the fifth line statement of the Conflict hexagram: Supreme good fortune means great auspiciousness.
The meaning of this line is: The lawsuit receives a just judgment; supreme good fortune.
This is the fifth line of the Conflict hexagram. For someone who obtains this line, a lawsuit will certainly end in complete victory. The reason for winning is that the person encounters a fair judge and fortunately meets a noble helper. Within the Conflict hexagram, the Fifth Nine is a yang line in a firm position, exactly where it belongs. This indicates that the great person is in the proper position and handles litigation with a fair and rigorous attitude. Therefore, the case will be resolved justly. Clearly, for a lawsuit to receive a fair resolution, it is not enough for you to be in the right; it also depends on whether the judge you meet is fair. The story of Judge Bao defending Qin Xianglian’s justice and angrily executing Chen Shimei expresses precisely the meaning of this line.
Detailed explanation of the Top Nine line of Hexagram 6 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Top Nine line
Topmost Nine. Someone may be awarded a ceremonial belt, but before the day ends it will be taken away three times.
The Image says: To receive official robes through litigation is not worthy of respect.
Explanation in plain language
Topmost Nine: A feudal lord bestows a ceremonial belt on someone, but before the day is over it is bestowed and stripped away three times.
The Image Commentary says: Someone receives the honor of an official belt because of litigation; this is not a matter worthy of respect.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line may face worries over disputes or lawsuits. They should cultivate virtue and nurture their well-being, turning major problems into minor ones. Officials may experience both success and failure, and suffer from anxiety over gains and losses. Students who study diligently are sure to achieve good results.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Anxiety over gains and losses is truly not worthwhile.
Wealth: It is not legitimate wealth; the gain does not compensate for the loss.
Home: It is difficult to live in peace.
Health: The illness improves and worsens by turns; there is fear of an ominous outcome.
Transformation of the Top Nine line
When the Top Nine line changes, it produces Hexagram 47: Lake over Water, Exhaustion. This is a contrasting hexagram, formed by Water below and Lake above. Dui represents yin, Lake, and joy; Kan represents yang, Water, and danger. Lake over Water signifies being trapped in hardship: one’s talents and intelligence are difficult to put into practice. Yet by remaining firm in the right path and finding joy within oneself, one can accomplish things and escape the predicament.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
Interpretation of the sixth line statement of the Conflict hexagram
Xi is the same as bestow, meaning to grant. A ceremonial belt is a broad belt, part of ancient official attire. Chi means to strip off clothing. The meaning of this line is: One may be granted the broad belt of official attire, but within a single day it is stripped away repeatedly.
Our culture values “patience is precious, harmony is supreme.” Those who obtain this hexagram may love bringing lawsuits and rely on strength to contend, eventually gaining certain benefits, including a chance at promotion, wearing official robes and a ceremonial belt. Yet because this conduct violates traditional culture, public opinion condemns it, and gaining office this way is considered dishonorable. Because people evaluate you poorly, it will affect your superiors’ impression of you. You may be unable to keep your office, and may even have your official robes stripped off repeatedly in one day—that is, be dismissed several times. Your position is unstable and extremely dangerous.
Those who obtain this line should be careful about matters such as changing homes, renting a home, promotion, and a pay raise; they may be toyed with repeatedly. Of course, take care not to go back on your word to others or toy with them.