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I Ching · 64 Hexagrams
Zhouyi I Ching Hexagram 45: Cui, Lake over Earth, Dui above Kun below
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Cui: Success. The king approaches the ancestral temple. It is beneficial to see a great person; success. Correctness is beneficial. Using a great sacrificial animal is auspicious. It is beneficial to have somewhere to go.
The Tuan Commentary says: Cui means gathering. Yielding and joyful, firm at the center and responding, therefore there is gathering. The king approaches the ancestral temple: he presents filial offerings. It is beneficial to see a great person and success: gathering through correctness. Using a great sacrificial animal is auspicious; having somewhere to go is beneficial: following Heaven's mandate. Observe what gathers, and the nature of Heaven, Earth, and all things can be seen.
The Image says: The lake is above the earth: Cui. Thus the noble person repairs weapons and prepares against the unexpected.
Hexagram 45 — original text and overview
Detailed explanation of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi Hexagram
Original text of the Cui hexagram
Cui: Success. The king approaches the ancestral temple. It is beneficial to see a great person; success. Correctness is beneficial. Using a great sacrificial animal is auspicious. It is beneficial to have somewhere to go.
The Image says: The lake is above the earth: Cui. Thus the noble person repairs weapons and prepares against the unexpected.
Explanation in plain language
Cui hexagram: Prosperity. The king goes to the ancestral temple to perform sacrifices. Obtaining this hexagram is favorable for meeting nobles and princes; success is assured, and this is an auspicious sign for maintaining correctness. Sacrificing cattle is also auspicious, and travel is favorable.
The Image says: The upper trigram is Dui, the Lake; the lower trigram is Kun, the Earth. Lake water flooding the earth is the image of Cui. The noble person observes this image and takes overflowing floods and gathered calamities as a warning; thus he repairs weapons and prepares for unexpected disorder.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Cui hexagram has Dui above and Kun below and is the second-generation hexagram of the Dui palace. It indicates water gathering on the earth into a lake to nourish all things and benefit the people. Obtaining this hexagram is favorable for seeing a great person; sacrificing a large animal is auspicious.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Abundant products and rich gathering; with a noble person's guidance, nothing is unfavorable.
Those who obtain this hexagram have very good fortune, receive help from noble people, gain substantial profits, and find nothing unfavorable wherever they go.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Do not forget danger in times of safety, and you will naturally have no worries.
Finances: A sign of wealth gathering, though there will be both accumulation and dispersal.
Home: Guard against water entering the house; maintain personal purity and self-respect.
Health: Fluid retention in the chest and abdomen; regulate it early.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Kun below and Dui above. Kun is Earth and compliance; Dui is Lake and water. The lake overflows and submerges the earth, while crowds struggle against one another and crises lurk everywhere. One must follow Heaven, appoint the worthy, prepare before trouble, and remain yielding and harmonious so that all sides benefit and live and work in peace. Cui means gathering and solidarity.
The Image: The lake is on the earth; water gathers in the soil, nourishing plants and trees so that they grow luxuriantly.
Fortune: Auspicious fortune flourishes, and elders provide support. Career benefits greatly, but beware financial disputes.
Career: Prosperity, development, unity, and harmony. You are rising steadily, but with too much water and too many people, competition will inevitably be fierce. Prosperity must decline eventually, so do not become proud; caution is best. Yet do not hesitate indecisively either. Move forward bravely and develop new business. You must win people over through high moral character.
Business: Cooperate sincerely, unite, and help one another. Encouragement is a sign of flourishing business. Expand the market boldly but advance steadily; with preparation, there will be no trouble, and continued development is assured.
Seeking recognition: Relying only on personal effort will not achieve much. You must obtain others' help and combine it with your own strengths to reach the ideal state.
The philosophical meaning of the Forty-Fifth Hexagram
The image of the Cui hexagram: the symbolic meaning of Lake over Earth
The Cui hexagram is formed by two different trigrams, with Kun below and Dui above. Dui is the Lake, water above; Kun is the Earth, compliance below. It shows water on the earth gathering into a lake, whose water irrigates fertile fields and makes crops grow densely, creating a flourishing scene. Yet water can benefit harvests by irrigating fields, or it can overflow and cause disaster; this must be guarded against early.
From another perspective, Dui is joy and Kun is compliance. This also shows that as long as the earth moves according to natural laws, joy will follow one another and happiness will gather.
The Cui hexagram follows the Gou hexagram. The Sequence explains: “Things meet, and afterward they gather; therefore Cui follows. Cui means gathering.” Only after encounters can there be gathering and union. Cui means gathering.
The Image explains this hexagram: “The lake is above the earth: Cui. Thus the noble person repairs weapons so that there will be no unexpected trouble.” This indicates that the image of Cui is Kun, Earth, below and Dui, Lake, above: a lake on the earth, with streams from all directions continually flowing into it, symbolizing gathering. When many streams converge, fish and dragons mix and mud and sand flow together; therefore the noble person should repair armor, staffs, and weapons to prevent unforeseen changes.
The Cui hexagram symbolizes gathering and belongs to the upper-middle class of hexagrams. The Image says: “Playing fish are startled by a net; leaping over the Dragon Gate, the body becomes a dragon; a willow three feet long hangs with golden coins; ten thousand peach blossoms reveal your ability.”
Love and marriage: Do not rush to force success; love and cherish one another for a happy marriage.
Decision-making: You are good at uniting with others for cooperation and have leadership ability. Yet you must be broad-minded and far-sighted, taking honesty and central correctness as your foundation without abandoning principles. Be especially strict with yourself and tolerant of others. When opposed, reflect seriously on yourself and learn the lesson. If you conduct yourself with this attitude, you can remain safe throughout life and your career will certainly prosper.
Original text of the Cui hexagram
Cui: Success. The king approaches the ancestral temple. It is beneficial to see a great person; success. Correctness is beneficial. Using a great sacrificial animal is auspicious. It is beneficial to have somewhere to go.
The Image says: The lake is above the earth: Cui. Thus the noble person repairs weapons and prepares against the unexpected.
Explanation in plain language
Cui hexagram: Prosperity. The king goes to the ancestral temple to perform sacrifices. Obtaining this hexagram is favorable for meeting nobles and princes; success is assured, and this is an auspicious sign for maintaining correctness. Sacrificing cattle is also auspicious, and travel is favorable.
The Image says: The upper trigram is Dui, the Lake; the lower trigram is Kun, the Earth. Lake water flooding the earth is the image of Cui. The noble person observes this image and takes overflowing floods and gathered calamities as a warning; thus he repairs weapons and prepares for unexpected disorder.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Cui hexagram has Dui above and Kun below and is the second-generation hexagram of the Dui palace. It indicates water gathering on the earth into a lake to nourish all things and benefit the people. Obtaining this hexagram is favorable for seeing a great person; sacrificing a large animal is auspicious.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Abundant products and rich gathering; with a noble person's guidance, nothing is unfavorable.
Those who obtain this hexagram have very good fortune, receive help from noble people, gain substantial profits, and find nothing unfavorable wherever they go.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Do not forget danger in times of safety, and you will naturally have no worries.
Finances: A sign of wealth gathering, though there will be both accumulation and dispersal.
Home: Guard against water entering the house; maintain personal purity and self-respect.
Health: Fluid retention in the chest and abdomen; regulate it early.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Kun below and Dui above. Kun is Earth and compliance; Dui is Lake and water. The lake overflows and submerges the earth, while crowds struggle against one another and crises lurk everywhere. One must follow Heaven, appoint the worthy, prepare before trouble, and remain yielding and harmonious so that all sides benefit and live and work in peace. Cui means gathering and solidarity.
The Image: The lake is on the earth; water gathers in the soil, nourishing plants and trees so that they grow luxuriantly.
Fortune: Auspicious fortune flourishes, and elders provide support. Career benefits greatly, but beware financial disputes.
Career: Prosperity, development, unity, and harmony. You are rising steadily, but with too much water and too many people, competition will inevitably be fierce. Prosperity must decline eventually, so do not become proud; caution is best. Yet do not hesitate indecisively either. Move forward bravely and develop new business. You must win people over through high moral character.
Business: Cooperate sincerely, unite, and help one another. Encouragement is a sign of flourishing business. Expand the market boldly but advance steadily; with preparation, there will be no trouble, and continued development is assured.
Seeking recognition: Relying only on personal effort will not achieve much. You must obtain others' help and combine it with your own strengths to reach the ideal state.
The philosophical meaning of the Forty-Fifth Hexagram
The image of the Cui hexagram: the symbolic meaning of Lake over Earth
The Cui hexagram is formed by two different trigrams, with Kun below and Dui above. Dui is the Lake, water above; Kun is the Earth, compliance below. It shows water on the earth gathering into a lake, whose water irrigates fertile fields and makes crops grow densely, creating a flourishing scene. Yet water can benefit harvests by irrigating fields, or it can overflow and cause disaster; this must be guarded against early.
From another perspective, Dui is joy and Kun is compliance. This also shows that as long as the earth moves according to natural laws, joy will follow one another and happiness will gather.
The Cui hexagram follows the Gou hexagram. The Sequence explains: “Things meet, and afterward they gather; therefore Cui follows. Cui means gathering.” Only after encounters can there be gathering and union. Cui means gathering.
The Image explains this hexagram: “The lake is above the earth: Cui. Thus the noble person repairs weapons so that there will be no unexpected trouble.” This indicates that the image of Cui is Kun, Earth, below and Dui, Lake, above: a lake on the earth, with streams from all directions continually flowing into it, symbolizing gathering. When many streams converge, fish and dragons mix and mud and sand flow together; therefore the noble person should repair armor, staffs, and weapons to prevent unforeseen changes.
The Cui hexagram symbolizes gathering and belongs to the upper-middle class of hexagrams. The Image says: “Playing fish are startled by a net; leaping over the Dragon Gate, the body becomes a dragon; a willow three feet long hangs with golden coins; ten thousand peach blossoms reveal your ability.”
Love and marriage: Do not rush to force success; love and cherish one another for a happy marriage.
Decision-making: You are good at uniting with others for cooperation and have leadership ability. Yet you must be broad-minded and far-sighted, taking honesty and central correctness as your foundation without abandoning principles. Be especially strict with yourself and tolerant of others. When opposed, reflect seriously on yourself and learn the lesson. If you conduct yourself with this attitude, you can remain safe throughout life and your career will certainly prosper.
Hexagram 45 — line-by-line explanation
Detailed explanation of the First Line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi Hexagram
Initial Six line statement
Six at the Beginning. There is trust, but it is not maintained to the end; then disorder and gathering. If one cries out, all join hands in laughter. Do not worry; going forward brings no blame.
The Image says: Then disorder and gathering—their aims are confused.
Explanation in plain language
Six at the Beginning: A captive is captured but then escapes, causing confusion and anxiety, and everyone cries out while pursuing him in all directions. At last he is recaptured, and everyone laughs happily; there is no need to worry. Obtaining this line, proceed boldly and there will be no disaster.
The Image says: Disorder and distress—the person's mind is confused.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Ordinary: Those who obtain this line may be framed by petty people; it is inauspicious first and auspicious later, so act cautiously. Officials will be demoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: One moment goes smoothly and the next does not; you receive someone's assistance.
Finances: Accumulation and dispersal are unstable, but blame can be avoided.
Home: Do not remain there for long; disorder at first, abandonment in the end.
Health: The mind and spirit are confused; medical treatment can cure it.
Initial Six changing hexagram
!["周易第45卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_45_1.png)
When the changing line is the First Six, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 17 of the Zhouyi: Following, Lake over Thunder. This hexagram consists of the doubled opposite trigrams (Thunder below and Lake above). Thunder signifies movement; Lake signifies joy. Movement accompanied by joy is “Following.” Following means mutual compliance: the self follows things, things can follow the self, and both sides communicate. Following must accord with the time and follow the situation, with principles and conditions, and with steadfastness as its prerequisite.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The first line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: First Six: There is trust, but it does not last; then disorder and gathering. If one cries out, those within reach join in laughter. Do not worry; going forward brings no blame. Explanation of the line statement
Trust: sincerity and good faith. Worry: concern.
From the hexagram image, the First Six is in a proper correspondence with the Ninth Four, hence “there is trust.” However, it is situated in the Gathering hexagram, which represents the people drawing close to the ruler, the Ninth Five. Thus the one whom the First Six intends to approach is the Ninth Five, creating the situation of “trust in the Ninth Four that does not last.”
The Image says: “Then disorder and gathering”—its intentions are confused.
This points out that “all kinds of trouble will arise and pile together.” The main reason is not anything else, but that inner sincerity cannot remain constant, resulting in confusion and bewilderment.
Those who obtain this line should, when undertaking matters, remain consistent from beginning to end. Do not be of two minds or give up halfway, always thinking that the other mountain
is higher than this one. Otherwise all kinds of troubles and problems will appear, and facing these accumulated problems will leave you overwhelmed and unable to cope.
First Six: There is trust, but it does not last; then disorder and gathering. If one cries out, those within reach join in laughter. Do not worry; going forward brings no blame.
The Image says: Then disorder and gathering—their aims are confused.
The classical text means: There is trust, but it is not maintained to the end; thus confusion and a new gathering arise. Amid the confused cries, those gathered laugh aloud. There is no need to worry; going forward brings no disaster.
Detailed explanation of the Second Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the second place line statement
Six in the Second Place. Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame. With trust, even a modest spring sacrifice is beneficial.
The Image says: “Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame,” because the center has not changed.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the Second Place: If this line is obtained, there is good fortune for a long time and no disaster. When asking about sacrifice, the omen shows that at the spring sacrifice it is favorable to use a prisoner as a human offering.
The Image Commentary says: “Good fortune for a long time and no disaster,” because the yielding line Six in the Second Place occupies the center of the lower trigram, symbolizing a person who holds to the right path and never changes.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Good fortune: Those who obtain this line are in a period of good luck; influential helpers offer support, and plans bring profit. An official receives recommendations and may be promoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: A period of centered and upright fortune; you receive others’ support.
Finances: Cooperation is favorable; sincerely repay the gods.
Home: Ancestors have accumulated virtue; marriage may be arranged.
Health: Practice qigong diligently.
Six in the second place changing hexagram
!["周易第45卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_45_2.png)
When the Second Six changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 47 of the Zhouyi: Exhaustion, Lake over Water. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Water below and Lake above). Lake is yin and signifies joy; Water is yang and signifies danger. Lake over Water means being trapped in adversity: one’s abilities are difficult to use. Yet by remaining on the right path and finding joy within oneself, one can accomplish matters and escape the predicament.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
Interpretation of the line statement
The bow-and-divination character means to summon or draw in. Trust: sincerity. The rare character means the spring sacrifice.
The line statement means: Withdrawal and humble yielding bring good fortune and no harm; as long as the heart is sincere, even a modest spring sacrifice can bring good fortune.
From the hexagram image, the Second Six is a yielding line in a yielding position and occupies the center of the lower trigram. It holds to the center and the right, possessing the virtue of yielding, centered uprightness. Although it corresponds with the ruler line, the Ninth Five, it does not actively advance to seek favor; it waits wholeheartedly for the Ninth Five to summon it.
The Image says: “Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame”—the center has not changed. This means that withdrawal and humble yielding bring good fortune and no disaster because the line occupies a central and appropriate position. When people gather, it is neither biased nor extreme, nor excessively conservative. It sincerely follows the middle way without ever changing, and therefore can yield humbly and turn misfortune into good fortune.
Those who obtain this line should understand this principle: in dealing with people and conducting oneself, sincerity is fundamental. It is not about what one declares or how one declares it. Just as in sacrifice, the issue is not the quantity of offerings, but whether the sacrificer’s heart is sincere.
Six in the Second Place: Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame. With trust, even a modest spring sacrifice is beneficial.
The Image says: “Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame,” because the center has not changed.
The classical text means: (Six in the Second Place) Being drawn forward by a superior, the Ninth Five, is auspicious and brings no disaster. Because there is trust, the drawing forward is auspicious and brings no disaster. Because there is trust, a light offering is enough to achieve the desired effect.
The Image means: Being drawn forward by a superior brings good fortune because the Second Six occupies the center and holds to the right without changing.
Detailed explanation of the Third Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the third place line statement
Six in the Third Place: Gathering in distress, sighing in distress; nothing is beneficial. Going forward brings no blame, though there is slight regret.
The Image says: Going forward brings no blame because the upper position is yielding and compliant.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the Third Place: Sorrowful sighing. Nothing is beneficial. Going out brings no disaster, but there are minor troubles.
The Image Commentary says: Going out brings no disaster because the yielding line Six in the Third Place is beneath the yang line Ninth Four, like a minister complying with the ruler and acting cautiously.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line may have an unsettled home; the six kinds of close relations suffer loss, and the elderly face much misfortune. Officials are uneasy in office and face hardship when away.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: An ordinary course of fortune; beware of petty people.
Finances: Move the business elsewhere and there will be no blame.
Home: Moving is advisable; a lament over a resentful couple.
Health: Chest discomfort; pay attention to elimination.
Six in the third place changing hexagram
!["周易第45卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_45_3.png)
When the Third Six changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 31 of the Zhouyi: Influence, Lake over Mountain. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Mountain below and Lake above). Mountain is firm below and Lake is yielding above; water seeps downward, the yielding is above and the firm below, and they respond to one another. Through mutual influence, completion is achieved.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
The line statement means: Gathering gives rise to sighs and brings no benefit. Yet taking action brings no disaster, only a little trouble.
From the hexagram image, the Third Six is a yielding line in a yielding position, neither central nor correct. Above, it opposes the Upper Six; below, it has an adverse relationship with the Second Six, leaving it isolated and without support. Yet the Third Six still has close relations with the Ninth Four and Ninth Five. If it can humbly comply with them, it can work together with them and avoid disaster.
The Image says: “Going forward brings no blame”—the upper position is yielding. This indicates that when encountering those of strong yang energy in higher positions, the yielding side below can always show humility and compliance, thereby avoiding possible disaster.
Those who obtain this line may have self-centered or narcissistic tendencies. Even when attending friends’ gatherings, they find it difficult to fit in and cannot find like-minded friends. If they wish to work with capable partners, they should treat them with humility and sincerity. There may be minor troubles because of personality or other reasons, but no major disaster.
Those who obtain this line and attend a gathering will suffer no disaster, only minor unpleasantness or inconvenience—or the banquet may seem stingy and cheap, leaving them dissatisfied.
Six in the Third Place: Gathering in distress and sighing in distress; nothing is beneficial. Note: no blame, but slight regret.
The Image says: Going forward brings no blame because the upper position is yielding and compliant.
The classical text means: Gathering brings lamentation and no benefit. Going forward brings no disaster, but there will be minor worry and regret.
The Image means: Going forward brings no disaster because the upper trigram is the yielding and compliant Wind.
Detailed explanation of the Fourth Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fourth Nine line
Nine in the Fourth Place: Great good fortune; no blame.
The Image says: “Great good fortune and no blame,” because the position is inappropriate.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the Fourth Place: Great good fortune and great profit; no disaster.
The Image Commentary says: The omen should have been great good fortune and great profit, but the result is merely freedom from disaster, because a yang line occupies a yin position—like a person of limited talent and virtue holding high office. As for official prospects, it indicates smooth progress; as for remaining in office, one can only seek freedom from disaster.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line and fail to follow the right path will face misfortune; only a person of great virtue can correct mistakes and gain blessings. Officials should beware of others’ suspicion; it is auspicious to leave high office for a lower one and withdraw before the tide turns.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: Although everything is highly favorable, virtue does not match the position.
Finances: Great profits are at hand; restraint is the better course.
Home: Prosperous and peaceful; the family status is uneven.
Health: Strong on the outside but weak within.
Transformation of the Fourth Nine line
!["周易第45卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_45_4.png)
When the Fourth Nine changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 8 of the Zhouyi: Fellowship, Water over Earth. This hexagram consists of doubled opposite trigrams (Earth below and Water above). Water clings to the great earth, while earth receives rivers and seas; they depend on each other and are intimate. This hexagram is the exact opposite of the Army hexagram and forms its reversed counterpart. It explains the principle of mutual affection and assistance, broad generosity without selfishness, and sincere unity.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
The fourth line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: Ninth Four: Great good fortune; no blame. Explanation of the line statement
The line statement means: Only under conditions of great good fortune and great profit can one be free of harm.
From the hexagram image, the Ninth Four faces the Kun trigram below; Kun represents the multitude, and the people gather to support the Ninth Four, hence “great good fortune.” The Ninth Four is a yang line in a yin position, neither central nor correct. Even if widely loved, it is difficult for it to achieve great things; it can only attain “no blame.”
The Image says: “Great good fortune and no blame,” because the position is inappropriate. This indicates that only under conditions of great good fortune and great profit can one avoid harm: the position is unsuitable and may bring injury at any time, so only great good fortune can prevent it.
Those who obtain this line may be a leader’s indispensable assistant in an organization, like a minister close to the ruler. Because they handle interpersonal relations well, they have strong support from subordinates. But note that the leader does not want to see this situation. Thus you will have no trouble only when everything is highly favorable. Under ordinary circumstances, the leader or superior will find fault with you and cause problems.
Those who obtain this line have many friends and a wide social circle, but should also note that some of them may bring trouble. As long as you maintain the correct position and do nothing wrong, there will be no danger.
Ninth Four: Great good fortune; no blame. The Image says: “Great good fortune and no blame,” because the position is inappropriate.
The classical text means: In divination, great good fortune and great profit are required in order to have no disaster.
The Image means: Divination must be greatly auspicious for there to be no disaster, because the Ninth Four, a yang line, occupies a yin position.
The Ninth Four is an upright official who stands up for the poor common people represented by the First Six, upholds justice for them, and is also harmoniously paired with the Third Six. Thus he is very fortunate. Yet this fortune does not mean gaining much benefit; it means merely avoiding disaster. Why? Because the firm line occupies an even position and is therefore out of place. In other words, he is a minister with a forthright character who shows no mercy toward the emperor’s errors and shortcomings.
Although he does this for the emperor’s benefit, such conduct ultimately cannot make the emperor fully pleased with him.
Detailed explanation of the Fifth Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the Fifth Place: Gathering while occupying the position; no blame. If trust is lacking, establish enduring steadfastness; regret disappears.
The Image says: “Gathering while occupying the position”—the intention has not yet shone forth.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the Fifth Place: Exhausting one’s heart and strength in one’s duties brings no disaster. Do not lightly punish others. When asking about long-term fortune and misfortune, the omen shows no great regret.
The Image Commentary says: Exhausting one’s heart and strength in one’s duties results in merely no disaster because one’s abilities are inferior and one cannot accomplish anything significant.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line face discord in human relationships and obstacles in their plans. Officials do not win people’s hearts; their intentions have not shone forth.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: You have position and power, so you should cultivate virtue even more.
Finances: Although there are profits, you must keep to what is right.
Home: The clan lives together; one may be called a noble son-in-law.
Health: The mind and spirit are unsettled; quiet rest is best.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
!["周易第45卦的其中之一变卦卦的卦图]("https://mypublicforweb.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/inching/64_45_5.png)
When the Fifth Nine changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 16 of the Zhouyi: Enthusiasm, Thunder over Earth. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Earth below and Thunder above). Earth signifies receptivity and compliance; Thunder signifies movement. Thunder emerges according to its time, heralding spring’s return to the earth. Movement arising from compliance is the source of harmony and joy. This hexagram and Humility are reversed counterparts and interact with each other.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
The fifth line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: Ninth Five: Gathering while occupying the position; no blame. If trust is lacking, establish enduring steadfastness; regret disappears. Explanation of the line statement
Lack of trust: a deficiency of sincerity.
The line statement means: When everyone gathers together, occupying a noble position brings no disaster, but sincerity is lacking. If one can steadfastly uphold justice and promote a pure and upright custom, regret over wrongdoing can be avoided.
From the hexagram image, the Ninth Five occupies the center and holds to the right. Compared with the Ninth Four, however, the Ninth Four is below and gathers people around itself, amounting to gathering people beyond its authority. This makes the Ninth Five appear lacking in trust among the people and unable to make them willingly submit.
The Image explains: “Gathering while occupying the position”—the intention to unite the realm and win the hearts of all under heaven has not yet been glorified
and one must still cultivate virtue and establish prestige so that the masses willingly submit.
Those who obtain this line should pay attention to the people around them. Their bad influence may damage your image among subordinates or others. At gatherings, arrange seats according to official rank. Those whose conduct is improper should be restrained and taught the rules from the beginning, so they do not steal your limelight and cause future regret. You must also build a good personal image.
Those who obtain this line may attract someone of the opposite sex because of their position. You could have invited that person to meet you, but after consideration you gave up; in the long run, that was the correct choice.
Ninth Five: Gathering while occupying the position; no blame. If trust is lacking, establish enduring steadfastness; regret disappears.
The Image says: “Gathering while occupying the position”—the intention has not yet shone brightly.
The classical text means: Through gathering, one gains position and has no disaster. One does not obtain trust; from the beginning, one holds steadfastly to the right path, and there is no regret.
The Image means: Gaining position through gathering shows that one’s intention has not yet been glorified.
As the ruler of a state, the Ninth Five
naturally wishes to gather all under heaven. But because he has not occupied the throne for long, he has not yet gained the people’s universal trust.
But as long as he continues to hold to the right path,
no regrettable matter will occur.
Analyzed through the hexagram image, the First Six and Third Six gather around the Ninth Four, while the Ninth Four and Ninth Five repel each other because they are both of the same polarity. Thus only the Second Six gathers with the Ninth Five, making the ruler of the Ninth Five appear somewhat isolated. By holding firmly to correctness, he can transform the world and eliminate regret.
Detailed explanation of the Upper Six line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Upper Six line statement
Six at the Top: Sighing and sobbing, with tears and mucus flowing; no blame.
The Image says: “Sighing and sobbing with tears and mucus flowing”—it is not secure in the upper position.
Explanation in plain language
Six at the Top: Sighing and shedding tears, deeply worried, but no disaster.
The Image Commentary says: Sighing and shedding tears, deeply worried, because the Upper Six is at the end of the hexagram, hanging alone without support. It is like a person in high office walking on thin ice, living each day in fear.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line face many vexations and cannot find peace. There may be indifference above and below, sorrow among young and old, and fame and gain may prove empty.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: Old age brings declining fortune; wait for someone’s helping hand.
Finances: No profit is available, fortunately there is rescue.
Home: The household is unsettled; separation through life or death.
Health: Grief causes illness; relax your mind.
Upper Six changing hexagram
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When the Upper Six changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 12 of the Zhouyi: Stagnation, Earth under Heaven. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Earth below and Heaven above). Its structure is the reverse of Peace: yang energy rises while yin energy descends, Heaven and Earth do not interact, and all things are blocked. They are reversed counterparts, showing that when Peace reaches its extreme it becomes Stagnation, and when Stagnation reaches its extreme Peace returns; each is the cause and effect of the other.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
The sixth line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: Upper Six: Sighing and sobbing, with tears and mucus flowing; no blame. Explanation of the line statement
Sighing and sobbing: lamentation and sorrowful sighs. Tears and mucus: tears and nasal discharge flowing together.
The line statement means: Sorrowful sighing and bitter weeping, yet no disaster.
From the hexagram image, the Upper Six has no proper correspondence below and is isolated without support. It rides above the Ninth Five, feeling insecure and constrained. Seeing everyone else gathered while remaining alone, it sighs and weeps bitterly.
The Image analyzes this line: “Sighing and sobbing with tears and mucus flowing”—it is not secure in the upper position. This means the Upper Six understands the difficulty of its situation and does not truly wish to remain in the high position. It wants to gather with others but cannot achieve its wish, so it can be “without blame.”
Those who obtain this line may be unable, for various objective reasons, to gather or associate normally with colleagues. At the same time, they seem to stand above their leaders or superiors, leaving them isolated and sorrowful. For example, if a superior appoints you to supervise the leaders and colleagues of your own department, you will fall into the same situation as this line. Your sorrow will show others that this was not your intention, so they will not oppose you, and you will suffer no disaster.
Those who obtain this line may experience twists and turns in love. When the person you love misunderstands you and leaves, she initially sighs and cries. Later she realizes that you were not entirely responsible for the outcome, and her emotions gradually stabilize. If you want to win her back, there is still hope.
Upper Six: Sighing and sobbing, with tears and mucus flowing; no blame.
The Image says: “Sighing and sobbing with tears and mucus flowing”—it is not secure in the upper position.
The classical text means: Lamentation and bitter weeping, but no disaster.
The Image means: Lamenting and bitter weeping result from being uneasy in the upper position.
When this Upper Six is linked with the Ninth Five, it is comparable to Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang of the Great Qing. As a woman, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang knew that her and Kangxi’s combined power could not stand against the four senior regents at court. Thus she was deeply worried, fearing for Kangxi’s personal safety and the fate of the Great Qing.
From the hexagram image, the Upper Six is the top line of the Lake trigram, representing water in a marsh. The marsh water has risen above the ground and must overflow, hence the image of tears and nasal discharge. Moreover, apart from joining with the Ninth Five, the Upper Six has no other corresponding or harmonious line, so it is isolated and weak and inevitably risks being pushed out. Thus the line statement of the Upper Six is sorrowful, yet there is no disaster.
Initial Six line statement
Six at the Beginning. There is trust, but it is not maintained to the end; then disorder and gathering. If one cries out, all join hands in laughter. Do not worry; going forward brings no blame.
The Image says: Then disorder and gathering—their aims are confused.
Explanation in plain language
Six at the Beginning: A captive is captured but then escapes, causing confusion and anxiety, and everyone cries out while pursuing him in all directions. At last he is recaptured, and everyone laughs happily; there is no need to worry. Obtaining this line, proceed boldly and there will be no disaster.
The Image says: Disorder and distress—the person's mind is confused.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Ordinary: Those who obtain this line may be framed by petty people; it is inauspicious first and auspicious later, so act cautiously. Officials will be demoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: One moment goes smoothly and the next does not; you receive someone's assistance.
Finances: Accumulation and dispersal are unstable, but blame can be avoided.
Home: Do not remain there for long; disorder at first, abandonment in the end.
Health: The mind and spirit are confused; medical treatment can cure it.
Initial Six changing hexagram
When the changing line is the First Six, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 17 of the Zhouyi: Following, Lake over Thunder. This hexagram consists of the doubled opposite trigrams (Thunder below and Lake above). Thunder signifies movement; Lake signifies joy. Movement accompanied by joy is “Following.” Following means mutual compliance: the self follows things, things can follow the self, and both sides communicate. Following must accord with the time and follow the situation, with principles and conditions, and with steadfastness as its prerequisite.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The first line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: First Six: There is trust, but it does not last; then disorder and gathering. If one cries out, those within reach join in laughter. Do not worry; going forward brings no blame. Explanation of the line statement
Trust: sincerity and good faith. Worry: concern.
From the hexagram image, the First Six is in a proper correspondence with the Ninth Four, hence “there is trust.” However, it is situated in the Gathering hexagram, which represents the people drawing close to the ruler, the Ninth Five. Thus the one whom the First Six intends to approach is the Ninth Five, creating the situation of “trust in the Ninth Four that does not last.”
The Image says: “Then disorder and gathering”—its intentions are confused.
This points out that “all kinds of trouble will arise and pile together.” The main reason is not anything else, but that inner sincerity cannot remain constant, resulting in confusion and bewilderment.
Those who obtain this line should, when undertaking matters, remain consistent from beginning to end. Do not be of two minds or give up halfway, always thinking that the other mountain
is higher than this one. Otherwise all kinds of troubles and problems will appear, and facing these accumulated problems will leave you overwhelmed and unable to cope.
First Six: There is trust, but it does not last; then disorder and gathering. If one cries out, those within reach join in laughter. Do not worry; going forward brings no blame.
The Image says: Then disorder and gathering—their aims are confused.
The classical text means: There is trust, but it is not maintained to the end; thus confusion and a new gathering arise. Amid the confused cries, those gathered laugh aloud. There is no need to worry; going forward brings no disaster.
Detailed explanation of the Second Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the second place line statement
Six in the Second Place. Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame. With trust, even a modest spring sacrifice is beneficial.
The Image says: “Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame,” because the center has not changed.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the Second Place: If this line is obtained, there is good fortune for a long time and no disaster. When asking about sacrifice, the omen shows that at the spring sacrifice it is favorable to use a prisoner as a human offering.
The Image Commentary says: “Good fortune for a long time and no disaster,” because the yielding line Six in the Second Place occupies the center of the lower trigram, symbolizing a person who holds to the right path and never changes.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Good fortune: Those who obtain this line are in a period of good luck; influential helpers offer support, and plans bring profit. An official receives recommendations and may be promoted.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: A period of centered and upright fortune; you receive others’ support.
Finances: Cooperation is favorable; sincerely repay the gods.
Home: Ancestors have accumulated virtue; marriage may be arranged.
Health: Practice qigong diligently.
Six in the second place changing hexagram
When the Second Six changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 47 of the Zhouyi: Exhaustion, Lake over Water. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Water below and Lake above). Lake is yin and signifies joy; Water is yang and signifies danger. Lake over Water means being trapped in adversity: one’s abilities are difficult to use. Yet by remaining on the right path and finding joy within oneself, one can accomplish matters and escape the predicament.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
Interpretation of the line statement
The bow-and-divination character means to summon or draw in. Trust: sincerity. The rare character means the spring sacrifice.
The line statement means: Withdrawal and humble yielding bring good fortune and no harm; as long as the heart is sincere, even a modest spring sacrifice can bring good fortune.
From the hexagram image, the Second Six is a yielding line in a yielding position and occupies the center of the lower trigram. It holds to the center and the right, possessing the virtue of yielding, centered uprightness. Although it corresponds with the ruler line, the Ninth Five, it does not actively advance to seek favor; it waits wholeheartedly for the Ninth Five to summon it.
The Image says: “Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame”—the center has not changed. This means that withdrawal and humble yielding bring good fortune and no disaster because the line occupies a central and appropriate position. When people gather, it is neither biased nor extreme, nor excessively conservative. It sincerely follows the middle way without ever changing, and therefore can yield humbly and turn misfortune into good fortune.
Those who obtain this line should understand this principle: in dealing with people and conducting oneself, sincerity is fundamental. It is not about what one declares or how one declares it. Just as in sacrifice, the issue is not the quantity of offerings, but whether the sacrificer’s heart is sincere.
Six in the Second Place: Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame. With trust, even a modest spring sacrifice is beneficial.
The Image says: “Drawing support brings good fortune and no blame,” because the center has not changed.
The classical text means: (Six in the Second Place) Being drawn forward by a superior, the Ninth Five, is auspicious and brings no disaster. Because there is trust, the drawing forward is auspicious and brings no disaster. Because there is trust, a light offering is enough to achieve the desired effect.
The Image means: Being drawn forward by a superior brings good fortune because the Second Six occupies the center and holds to the right without changing.
Detailed explanation of the Third Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Six in the third place line statement
Six in the Third Place: Gathering in distress, sighing in distress; nothing is beneficial. Going forward brings no blame, though there is slight regret.
The Image says: Going forward brings no blame because the upper position is yielding and compliant.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the Third Place: Sorrowful sighing. Nothing is beneficial. Going out brings no disaster, but there are minor troubles.
The Image Commentary says: Going out brings no disaster because the yielding line Six in the Third Place is beneath the yang line Ninth Four, like a minister complying with the ruler and acting cautiously.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line may have an unsettled home; the six kinds of close relations suffer loss, and the elderly face much misfortune. Officials are uneasy in office and face hardship when away.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: An ordinary course of fortune; beware of petty people.
Finances: Move the business elsewhere and there will be no blame.
Home: Moving is advisable; a lament over a resentful couple.
Health: Chest discomfort; pay attention to elimination.
Six in the third place changing hexagram
When the Third Six changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 31 of the Zhouyi: Influence, Lake over Mountain. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Mountain below and Lake above). Mountain is firm below and Lake is yielding above; water seeps downward, the yielding is above and the firm below, and they respond to one another. Through mutual influence, completion is achieved.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
The line statement means: Gathering gives rise to sighs and brings no benefit. Yet taking action brings no disaster, only a little trouble.
From the hexagram image, the Third Six is a yielding line in a yielding position, neither central nor correct. Above, it opposes the Upper Six; below, it has an adverse relationship with the Second Six, leaving it isolated and without support. Yet the Third Six still has close relations with the Ninth Four and Ninth Five. If it can humbly comply with them, it can work together with them and avoid disaster.
The Image says: “Going forward brings no blame”—the upper position is yielding. This indicates that when encountering those of strong yang energy in higher positions, the yielding side below can always show humility and compliance, thereby avoiding possible disaster.
Those who obtain this line may have self-centered or narcissistic tendencies. Even when attending friends’ gatherings, they find it difficult to fit in and cannot find like-minded friends. If they wish to work with capable partners, they should treat them with humility and sincerity. There may be minor troubles because of personality or other reasons, but no major disaster.
Those who obtain this line and attend a gathering will suffer no disaster, only minor unpleasantness or inconvenience—or the banquet may seem stingy and cheap, leaving them dissatisfied.
Six in the Third Place: Gathering in distress and sighing in distress; nothing is beneficial. Note: no blame, but slight regret.
The Image says: Going forward brings no blame because the upper position is yielding and compliant.
The classical text means: Gathering brings lamentation and no benefit. Going forward brings no disaster, but there will be minor worry and regret.
The Image means: Going forward brings no disaster because the upper trigram is the yielding and compliant Wind.
Detailed explanation of the Fourth Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fourth Nine line
Nine in the Fourth Place: Great good fortune; no blame.
The Image says: “Great good fortune and no blame,” because the position is inappropriate.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the Fourth Place: Great good fortune and great profit; no disaster.
The Image Commentary says: The omen should have been great good fortune and great profit, but the result is merely freedom from disaster, because a yang line occupies a yin position—like a person of limited talent and virtue holding high office. As for official prospects, it indicates smooth progress; as for remaining in office, one can only seek freedom from disaster.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line and fail to follow the right path will face misfortune; only a person of great virtue can correct mistakes and gain blessings. Officials should beware of others’ suspicion; it is auspicious to leave high office for a lower one and withdraw before the tide turns.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: Although everything is highly favorable, virtue does not match the position.
Finances: Great profits are at hand; restraint is the better course.
Home: Prosperous and peaceful; the family status is uneven.
Health: Strong on the outside but weak within.
Transformation of the Fourth Nine line
When the Fourth Nine changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 8 of the Zhouyi: Fellowship, Water over Earth. This hexagram consists of doubled opposite trigrams (Earth below and Water above). Water clings to the great earth, while earth receives rivers and seas; they depend on each other and are intimate. This hexagram is the exact opposite of the Army hexagram and forms its reversed counterpart. It explains the principle of mutual affection and assistance, broad generosity without selfishness, and sincere unity.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
The fourth line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: Ninth Four: Great good fortune; no blame. Explanation of the line statement
The line statement means: Only under conditions of great good fortune and great profit can one be free of harm.
From the hexagram image, the Ninth Four faces the Kun trigram below; Kun represents the multitude, and the people gather to support the Ninth Four, hence “great good fortune.” The Ninth Four is a yang line in a yin position, neither central nor correct. Even if widely loved, it is difficult for it to achieve great things; it can only attain “no blame.”
The Image says: “Great good fortune and no blame,” because the position is inappropriate. This indicates that only under conditions of great good fortune and great profit can one avoid harm: the position is unsuitable and may bring injury at any time, so only great good fortune can prevent it.
Those who obtain this line may be a leader’s indispensable assistant in an organization, like a minister close to the ruler. Because they handle interpersonal relations well, they have strong support from subordinates. But note that the leader does not want to see this situation. Thus you will have no trouble only when everything is highly favorable. Under ordinary circumstances, the leader or superior will find fault with you and cause problems.
Those who obtain this line have many friends and a wide social circle, but should also note that some of them may bring trouble. As long as you maintain the correct position and do nothing wrong, there will be no danger.
Ninth Four: Great good fortune; no blame. The Image says: “Great good fortune and no blame,” because the position is inappropriate.
The classical text means: In divination, great good fortune and great profit are required in order to have no disaster.
The Image means: Divination must be greatly auspicious for there to be no disaster, because the Ninth Four, a yang line, occupies a yin position.
The Ninth Four is an upright official who stands up for the poor common people represented by the First Six, upholds justice for them, and is also harmoniously paired with the Third Six. Thus he is very fortunate. Yet this fortune does not mean gaining much benefit; it means merely avoiding disaster. Why? Because the firm line occupies an even position and is therefore out of place. In other words, he is a minister with a forthright character who shows no mercy toward the emperor’s errors and shortcomings.
Although he does this for the emperor’s benefit, such conduct ultimately cannot make the emperor fully pleased with him.
Detailed explanation of the Fifth Nine line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Statement of the Fifth Nine line
Nine in the Fifth Place: Gathering while occupying the position; no blame. If trust is lacking, establish enduring steadfastness; regret disappears.
The Image says: “Gathering while occupying the position”—the intention has not yet shone forth.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the Fifth Place: Exhausting one’s heart and strength in one’s duties brings no disaster. Do not lightly punish others. When asking about long-term fortune and misfortune, the omen shows no great regret.
The Image Commentary says: Exhausting one’s heart and strength in one’s duties results in merely no disaster because one’s abilities are inferior and one cannot accomplish anything significant.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line face discord in human relationships and obstacles in their plans. Officials do not win people’s hearts; their intentions have not shone forth.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: You have position and power, so you should cultivate virtue even more.
Finances: Although there are profits, you must keep to what is right.
Home: The clan lives together; one may be called a noble son-in-law.
Health: The mind and spirit are unsettled; quiet rest is best.
Transformation of the Fifth Nine line
When the Fifth Nine changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 16 of the Zhouyi: Enthusiasm, Thunder over Earth. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Earth below and Thunder above). Earth signifies receptivity and compliance; Thunder signifies movement. Thunder emerges according to its time, heralding spring’s return to the earth. Movement arising from compliance is the source of harmony and joy. This hexagram and Humility are reversed counterparts and interact with each other.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
The fifth line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: Ninth Five: Gathering while occupying the position; no blame. If trust is lacking, establish enduring steadfastness; regret disappears. Explanation of the line statement
Lack of trust: a deficiency of sincerity.
The line statement means: When everyone gathers together, occupying a noble position brings no disaster, but sincerity is lacking. If one can steadfastly uphold justice and promote a pure and upright custom, regret over wrongdoing can be avoided.
From the hexagram image, the Ninth Five occupies the center and holds to the right. Compared with the Ninth Four, however, the Ninth Four is below and gathers people around itself, amounting to gathering people beyond its authority. This makes the Ninth Five appear lacking in trust among the people and unable to make them willingly submit.
The Image explains: “Gathering while occupying the position”—the intention to unite the realm and win the hearts of all under heaven has not yet been glorified
and one must still cultivate virtue and establish prestige so that the masses willingly submit.
Those who obtain this line should pay attention to the people around them. Their bad influence may damage your image among subordinates or others. At gatherings, arrange seats according to official rank. Those whose conduct is improper should be restrained and taught the rules from the beginning, so they do not steal your limelight and cause future regret. You must also build a good personal image.
Those who obtain this line may attract someone of the opposite sex because of their position. You could have invited that person to meet you, but after consideration you gave up; in the long run, that was the correct choice.
Ninth Five: Gathering while occupying the position; no blame. If trust is lacking, establish enduring steadfastness; regret disappears.
The Image says: “Gathering while occupying the position”—the intention has not yet shone brightly.
The classical text means: Through gathering, one gains position and has no disaster. One does not obtain trust; from the beginning, one holds steadfastly to the right path, and there is no regret.
The Image means: Gaining position through gathering shows that one’s intention has not yet been glorified.
As the ruler of a state, the Ninth Five
naturally wishes to gather all under heaven. But because he has not occupied the throne for long, he has not yet gained the people’s universal trust.
But as long as he continues to hold to the right path,
no regrettable matter will occur.
Analyzed through the hexagram image, the First Six and Third Six gather around the Ninth Four, while the Ninth Four and Ninth Five repel each other because they are both of the same polarity. Thus only the Second Six gathers with the Ninth Five, making the ruler of the Ninth Five appear somewhat isolated. By holding firmly to correctness, he can transform the world and eliminate regret.
Detailed explanation of the Upper Six line of the Forty-Fifth Zhouyi hexagram
Upper Six line statement
Six at the Top: Sighing and sobbing, with tears and mucus flowing; no blame.
The Image says: “Sighing and sobbing with tears and mucus flowing”—it is not secure in the upper position.
Explanation in plain language
Six at the Top: Sighing and shedding tears, deeply worried, but no disaster.
The Image Commentary says: Sighing and shedding tears, deeply worried, because the Upper Six is at the end of the hexagram, hanging alone without support. It is like a person in high office walking on thin ice, living each day in fear.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line face many vexations and cannot find peace. There may be indifference above and below, sorrow among young and old, and fame and gain may prove empty.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing and luck: Old age brings declining fortune; wait for someone’s helping hand.
Finances: No profit is available, fortunately there is rescue.
Home: The household is unsettled; separation through life or death.
Health: Grief causes illness; relax your mind.
Upper Six changing hexagram
When the Upper Six changes, the resulting hexagram is Hexagram 12 of the Zhouyi: Stagnation, Earth under Heaven. This is a doubled opposite hexagram (Earth below and Heaven above). Its structure is the reverse of Peace: yang energy rises while yin energy descends, Heaven and Earth do not interact, and all things are blocked. They are reversed counterparts, showing that when Peace reaches its extreme it becomes Stagnation, and when Stagnation reaches its extreme Peace returns; each is the cause and effect of the other.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
The sixth line of the Gathering hexagram, line statement: Upper Six: Sighing and sobbing, with tears and mucus flowing; no blame. Explanation of the line statement
Sighing and sobbing: lamentation and sorrowful sighs. Tears and mucus: tears and nasal discharge flowing together.
The line statement means: Sorrowful sighing and bitter weeping, yet no disaster.
From the hexagram image, the Upper Six has no proper correspondence below and is isolated without support. It rides above the Ninth Five, feeling insecure and constrained. Seeing everyone else gathered while remaining alone, it sighs and weeps bitterly.
The Image analyzes this line: “Sighing and sobbing with tears and mucus flowing”—it is not secure in the upper position. This means the Upper Six understands the difficulty of its situation and does not truly wish to remain in the high position. It wants to gather with others but cannot achieve its wish, so it can be “without blame.”
Those who obtain this line may be unable, for various objective reasons, to gather or associate normally with colleagues. At the same time, they seem to stand above their leaders or superiors, leaving them isolated and sorrowful. For example, if a superior appoints you to supervise the leaders and colleagues of your own department, you will fall into the same situation as this line. Your sorrow will show others that this was not your intention, so they will not oppose you, and you will suffer no disaster.
Those who obtain this line may experience twists and turns in love. When the person you love misunderstands you and leaves, she initially sighs and cries. Later she realizes that you were not entirely responsible for the outcome, and her emotions gradually stabilize. If you want to win her back, there is still hope.
Upper Six: Sighing and sobbing, with tears and mucus flowing; no blame.
The Image says: “Sighing and sobbing with tears and mucus flowing”—it is not secure in the upper position.
The classical text means: Lamentation and bitter weeping, but no disaster.
The Image means: Lamenting and bitter weeping result from being uneasy in the upper position.
When this Upper Six is linked with the Ninth Five, it is comparable to Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang of the Great Qing. As a woman, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang knew that her and Kangxi’s combined power could not stand against the four senior regents at court. Thus she was deeply worried, fearing for Kangxi’s personal safety and the fate of the Great Qing.
From the hexagram image, the Upper Six is the top line of the Lake trigram, representing water in a marsh. The marsh water has risen above the ground and must overflow, hence the image of tears and nasal discharge. Moreover, apart from joining with the Ninth Five, the Upper Six has no other corresponding or harmonious line, so it is isolated and weak and inevitably risks being pushed out. Thus the line statement of the Upper Six is sorrowful, yet there is no disaster.