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I Ching · 64 Hexagrams
Zhouyi / I Ching Hexagram 62: Small Exceeding, Thunder over Mountain, Zhen above Gen below
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Small Exceeding: Success. Favorable for perseverance. Small matters may be undertaken; great matters may not. A flying bird leaves its message behind. It is not favorable to rise; it is favorable to descend. Greatly auspicious.
The Tuan Commentary says: Small Exceeding means that what is small exceeds and thereby succeeds. Exceeding while benefiting from perseverance means moving with the times. The yielding line attains the center, so small matters are auspicious. The firm lines lose their positions and are not centered, so great matters cannot be undertaken. There is the image of a flying bird, and a flying bird leaves its message behind. It is not favorable to rise; it is favorable to descend—greatly auspicious, because rising goes against the natural order while descending follows it.
The Image says: Thunder over the mountain forms Small Exceeding. The noble person makes conduct more than ordinarily respectful, grief at funerals more than ordinarily sorrowful, and expenditures more than ordinarily frugal.
Hexagram 62 — original text and overview
Detailed explanation of Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Original text of the Small Exceeding hexagram
Small Exceeding. Success, favorable for perseverance. Small matters may be undertaken; great matters may not. A flying bird leaves its message behind. It is not favorable to rise; it is favorable to descend. Greatly auspicious.
The Image says: Thunder over the mountain, Small Exceeding. The noble person makes conduct more than ordinarily respectful, grief at funerals more than ordinarily sorrowful, and use more than ordinarily frugal.
Explanation in plain language
The Small Exceeding hexagram: Success; this is an auspicious divination for perseverance. It is suitable only for small matters, not great ones. A bird passes through the sky, leaving its cry by the ear, warning people: climbing high inevitably meets danger; going downward brings good fortune.
The Image Commentary says: The lower trigram is Gen, representing mountain; the upper trigram is Zhen, representing thunder. Thunder over the mountain is the image of Small Exceeding. The noble person observes this image, fears heavenly thunder, and dares not commit excess. Therefore, in conduct one does not dare to be overly deferential, in mourning not excessively sorrowful, and in expenditure not excessively frugal—only moderate.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Small Exceeding hexagram has Zhen above and Gen below; it is a wandering-soul hexagram of the Dui Palace. Receiving this hexagram is favorable for undertaking matters: small matters may be undertaken, but great matters may not.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Yin complies while Yang is constrained; employ gentleness in handling affairs. Exercise caution and self-restraint; it is inadvisable to advance hastily.
Those who receive this hexagram find matters generally unfavorable. Undertake small matters, not great ones, and guard especially against disputes and lawsuits caused by your own mistakes.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Living in lofty isolation invites others’ jealousy.
Finances: Prices do not align; there is no profit to be made.
Home: A house on high ground; an old husband with a young wife.
Health: Excessive cold or excessive heat.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This hexagram consists of contrasting trigrams, Gen below and Zhen above, repeated together. Gen is mountain and Zhen is thunder. Thunder sounds over the mountain, something that must be feared. Yang represents the great and yin the small; the four outer yin lines exceed the two central yang lines, hence it is called “Small Exceeding,” a slight overstepping.
Great Image: Thunder over the mountain. Although the thunder is loud, the mountain obstructs it and weakens its sound; this is “Small Exceeding.”
Fortune: Matters are generally unfavorable. Undertake small matters, not great ones; guard especially against small mistakes causing alarm, disputes, and lawsuits.
Career: Act cautiously and carefully; never take risks, especially by exploiting loopholes. As long as you persist in proper conduct, you may move forward courageously, work hard, and develop your career. However, keep within limits and do not aim unrealistically high, lest you invite disaster. Adaptability is the key.
Business: You do not fully understand market conditions. Test the waters slightly first, then immediately restrain your activity, or danger will result. Do not act on a large scale, but neither should you be timid; build steadily and develop step by step.
Seeking recognition: Follow the principles of centeredness and gradual progress to move forward steadily. Do not pursue empty fame, and never climb to a high position without regard for actual circumstances.
Love and marriage: Spend a longer time getting to know each other; do not act hastily.
Decision-making: Actions must stay within proper bounds and stop when enough has been done. When things are flourishing, guard against going too far and restrain yourself promptly. Excess will not accomplish matters and instead bring trouble. All actions must adapt to circumstances; do not be rigid.
Philosophical meaning of the sixty-second hexagram
The Small Exceeding hexagram consists of two contrasting trigrams, Gen below and Zhen above. Gen is mountain and Zhen thunder. The mountain is below and thunder above, meaning thunder and rain occur over the mountain. Thunder and rain can damage trees and cause soil and water erosion. Even so, without the nourishment of thunder and rain, all things on the mountain could not survive. By comparison, the loss caused by thunder and rain is only a small excess of thunder and rain, so this hexagram is named Small Exceeding.
The Small Exceeding hexagram follows Inner Truth. The Sequence Commentary explains: “What possesses trust must act, therefore Small Exceeding follows.” A trustworthy person must act; if one cannot grasp the limits of action, a small excess may occur, so Small Exceeding is discussed next.
The Image Commentary explains this hexagram: Thunder over the mountain, Small Exceeding. The noble person follows this image by being somewhat excessive in ordinary small matters: more respectful in conduct and bearing, more sorrowful in mourning, and more frugal in daily use, in order to correct excess by going somewhat beyond the norm.
The Small Exceeding image symbolizes being slightly excessive and teaches the principle that action must have limits. It is a moderately superior hexagram. The Image Commentary judges it: A traveler crosses a single-plank bridge; fear fills the heart and the eyes stare ahead. Walking briskly, one can get across, but walking slowly will certainly be unsafe.
Original text of the Small Exceeding hexagram
Small Exceeding. Success, favorable for perseverance. Small matters may be undertaken; great matters may not. A flying bird leaves its message behind. It is not favorable to rise; it is favorable to descend. Greatly auspicious.
The Image says: Thunder over the mountain, Small Exceeding. The noble person makes conduct more than ordinarily respectful, grief at funerals more than ordinarily sorrowful, and use more than ordinarily frugal.
Explanation in plain language
The Small Exceeding hexagram: Success; this is an auspicious divination for perseverance. It is suitable only for small matters, not great ones. A bird passes through the sky, leaving its cry by the ear, warning people: climbing high inevitably meets danger; going downward brings good fortune.
The Image Commentary says: The lower trigram is Gen, representing mountain; the upper trigram is Zhen, representing thunder. Thunder over the mountain is the image of Small Exceeding. The noble person observes this image, fears heavenly thunder, and dares not commit excess. Therefore, in conduct one does not dare to be overly deferential, in mourning not excessively sorrowful, and in expenditure not excessively frugal—only moderate.
Explanation from The Heavenly Mechanism of Divining Changes
The Small Exceeding hexagram has Zhen above and Gen below; it is a wandering-soul hexagram of the Dui Palace. Receiving this hexagram is favorable for undertaking matters: small matters may be undertaken, but great matters may not.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Yin complies while Yang is constrained; employ gentleness in handling affairs. Exercise caution and self-restraint; it is inadvisable to advance hastily.
Those who receive this hexagram find matters generally unfavorable. Undertake small matters, not great ones, and guard especially against disputes and lawsuits caused by your own mistakes.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Living in lofty isolation invites others’ jealousy.
Finances: Prices do not align; there is no profit to be made.
Home: A house on high ground; an old husband with a young wife.
Health: Excessive cold or excessive heat.
Traditional interpretation of the hexagram
This hexagram consists of contrasting trigrams, Gen below and Zhen above, repeated together. Gen is mountain and Zhen is thunder. Thunder sounds over the mountain, something that must be feared. Yang represents the great and yin the small; the four outer yin lines exceed the two central yang lines, hence it is called “Small Exceeding,” a slight overstepping.
Great Image: Thunder over the mountain. Although the thunder is loud, the mountain obstructs it and weakens its sound; this is “Small Exceeding.”
Fortune: Matters are generally unfavorable. Undertake small matters, not great ones; guard especially against small mistakes causing alarm, disputes, and lawsuits.
Career: Act cautiously and carefully; never take risks, especially by exploiting loopholes. As long as you persist in proper conduct, you may move forward courageously, work hard, and develop your career. However, keep within limits and do not aim unrealistically high, lest you invite disaster. Adaptability is the key.
Business: You do not fully understand market conditions. Test the waters slightly first, then immediately restrain your activity, or danger will result. Do not act on a large scale, but neither should you be timid; build steadily and develop step by step.
Seeking recognition: Follow the principles of centeredness and gradual progress to move forward steadily. Do not pursue empty fame, and never climb to a high position without regard for actual circumstances.
Love and marriage: Spend a longer time getting to know each other; do not act hastily.
Decision-making: Actions must stay within proper bounds and stop when enough has been done. When things are flourishing, guard against going too far and restrain yourself promptly. Excess will not accomplish matters and instead bring trouble. All actions must adapt to circumstances; do not be rigid.
Philosophical meaning of the sixty-second hexagram
The Small Exceeding hexagram consists of two contrasting trigrams, Gen below and Zhen above. Gen is mountain and Zhen thunder. The mountain is below and thunder above, meaning thunder and rain occur over the mountain. Thunder and rain can damage trees and cause soil and water erosion. Even so, without the nourishment of thunder and rain, all things on the mountain could not survive. By comparison, the loss caused by thunder and rain is only a small excess of thunder and rain, so this hexagram is named Small Exceeding.
The Small Exceeding hexagram follows Inner Truth. The Sequence Commentary explains: “What possesses trust must act, therefore Small Exceeding follows.” A trustworthy person must act; if one cannot grasp the limits of action, a small excess may occur, so Small Exceeding is discussed next.
The Image Commentary explains this hexagram: Thunder over the mountain, Small Exceeding. The noble person follows this image by being somewhat excessive in ordinary small matters: more respectful in conduct and bearing, more sorrowful in mourning, and more frugal in daily use, in order to correct excess by going somewhat beyond the norm.
The Small Exceeding image symbolizes being slightly excessive and teaches the principle that action must have limits. It is a moderately superior hexagram. The Image Commentary judges it: A traveler crosses a single-plank bridge; fear fills the heart and the eyes stare ahead. Walking briskly, one can get across, but walking slowly will certainly be unsafe.
Hexagram 62 — line-by-line explanation
Detailed explanation of the first line of Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Initial Six line statement
Six at the beginning: A flying bird brings misfortune.
The Image says: A flying bird brings misfortune; nothing can be done about it.
Explanation in plain language
Six at the beginning: A bird flying through the sky signals danger.
The Image Commentary says: A bird flying through the sky signals danger; this is an unavoidable matter.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who receive this line lack favorable timing, and disaster arrives suddenly. Officials worry about sudden calamity. For scholars, it may indicate a sudden rise to prominence.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Failing to remain content with one’s place leads to worrying results.
Finances: Overestimating your abilities makes failure unavoidable.
Home: The house should be low and small; the families should be well matched.
Health: The spirit and consciousness are difficult to preserve.
Initial Six changing hexagram
When the first line changes, it becomes Hexagram 55: Thunder over Fire, Abundance. This hexagram consists of contrasting trigrams, Li below and Zhen above, repeated together. Lightning flashes and thunder roars, signifying great achievement and reaching a peak, like the sun at midday. A warning: things must develop toward the opposite direction; prosperity and decline are impermanent, so one must remain vigilant.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The first line of Small Exceeding, line statement: Six at the beginning: A flying bird brings misfortune. Explanation of the line statement
The meaning of this line statement is: A bird forcing its flight upward will encounter danger.
From the hexagram image, Six at the beginning is a yielding line in a firm position. Its talent and substance are weak, yet it is active and eager to show its ability, like a young bird that has just learned to fly: its wings are not yet fully grown, but it insists on flying high, which will inevitably bring danger.
The Image explains this line as follows: “A flying bird brings misfortune”—there is nothing that can be done. This points out that “a bird flying forcefully upward will encounter danger”; the trouble is self-inflicted and unavoidable.
Those who obtain this hexagram should consider their actual abilities. Until their abilities, knowledge, and experience have reached a certain level, they should not seek a higher position or dream of making a great fortune. At this time, do not ask for too much; begin with small matters around you, learn gradually, and proceed step by step.
Six at the beginning: A flying bird brings misfortune.
The Image says: A flying bird brings misfortune; nothing can be done about it.
The classical text means: A flying bird brings danger.
The Image means: A flying bird brings danger, and there is no way to save it.
Detailed explanation of the second line, Nine in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Six in the second place line statement
Six in the second place: Passing by his grandfather, he meets his grandmother. Not reaching his ruler, he meets his minister. No blame.
The Image says: Not reaching his ruler means that a minister must not go beyond his ruler.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the second place: He missed his grandfather but met his grandmother; he did not reach the ruler but met his ministers. Though there was a delay, it was not in vain, and therefore there is no disaster.
The Image says: Not reaching the ruler is because a minister should not surpass the ruler.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line will receive guidance from a noble helper and succeed in their plans. Officials should be strict with themselves and faithfully uphold their duties; promotion may then be expected.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: A smooth period; having half is already sufficient.
Wealth: Though you may not have a full load, half is acceptable.
Household: An image of unrest; there may be an unsuitable match.
Health: The medicine has not taken effect; continue treatment.
Six in the second place changing hexagram
When the second line changes, it becomes Hexagram 32 of the Zhouyi: Duration, Thunder over Wind. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Wind below and Thunder above, repeated. Thunder represents the male and thunder; Wind represents the female and wind. The firm is above and the yielding below. Firm above and yielding below: creation follows a constant pattern, and they nourish each other. Yin and yang respond to each other in the normal order, hence the name Duration.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
The second line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, line statement: Six in the second place: Passing by his grandfather, he meets his grandmother; not reaching his ruler, he meets his minister; no blame. Explanation of the line statement
“Grandfather” refers to the paternal grandfather. “Grandmother” here refers to the paternal grandmother.
The meaning of this line statement is: When seeking instructions about family matters, one may ask the grandmother without going through the grandfather. When seeking instructions about affairs of state, if one cannot directly request an audience with the ruler, one may consult the ruler’s close ministers, and there will be no error.
From the hexagram image, Six in the second place is a yielding line in a yielding place, centered and upright, so its actions carefully follow rules and proper conduct. In ancient society, the family operated under patriarchal authority, and matters had to be submitted to the head of the family. This junior member did not ask the grandfather but passed over him to ask the grandmother. Since household chores concerned minor matters, this was not an error. For a minister, however, it is impermissible to bypass the ruler; one must ask the ruler. Only when a direct audience is impossible may one consult the ruler’s close ministers.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Not reaching his ruler”—a minister must not go beyond his ruler. This points out that one must not presumptuously bypass the ruler’s position, because a minister cannot surpass the supreme authority.
Those who obtain this line must follow the rules and regulations of their organization. When requesting instructions or reporting, they must address the principal leader and must not overstep their position or approach the wrong person. In the family, they should also respect their elders. Although society is no longer patriarchal and many matters may be decided independently, it is still better to consult them out of respect.
Six in the second place: Passing by his grandfather, he meets his grandmother; not reaching his ruler, he meets his minister; no blame.
The Image says: Not reaching his ruler means that a minister must not go beyond his ruler.
Detailed explanation of the third line, Nine in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Third Nine line
Nine in the third place: Do not go beyond; guard against it. If one follows along, someone may injure him. Misfortune.
The Image says: If one follows along and someone injures him, how could that not be disastrous?
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the third place: Do not overcriticize him, but stop his error from developing. If you let him run unchecked, you will instead harm him, and danger is sure to follow.
The Image says: Letting him run unchecked and thereby harming him is the height of danger, beyond description.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line have poor timing and should guard carefully against accidents. Officials must beware of being harmed by petty and treacherous people.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Do not advance rashly; protect yourself to avoid trouble.
Wealth: Going out to conduct business; beware of thieves.
Household: Guard carefully against misfortune; beware of enemies.
Health: Wounds from blades are dangerous.
Transformation of the Third Nine line
When the third line changes, it becomes Hexagram 16 of the Zhouyi: Delight, Thunder over Earth. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Earth below and Thunder above, repeated. Earth means receptivity and obedience; Thunder means movement. Thunder emerges in season, foretelling spring’s return to the earth. Movement arising from compliance is the source of harmony and joy. This hexagram and Humility are inverse hexagrams and interact with each other.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
The third line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, Nine in the third place: Do not go beyond; guard against it. If one follows along, someone may injure him. Misfortune. Explanation of the line statement
“Do not go beyond” means do not go too far. “Injure” means to harm.
The meaning of this line statement is: Relying on one’s strength and refusing to take sufficient precautions will lead to being harmed by others, hence misfortune.
The Image says: “If one follows along, someone may injure him”—how could this not be disastrous? This emphasizes how serious the danger of being harmed by others is.
Those who obtain this line should be content with their present circumstances. Do not become resentful or defiant merely because you have backing from above or someone appreciates you. Do not go to extremes in your actions; remain alert at all times to unexpected calamity. If you stay clearheaded, do not rely on your own toughness, and do not cross the middle path or violate convention, you can avoid disaster.
Nine in the third place: Do not go beyond; guard against it. If one follows along, someone may injure him. Misfortune.
The Image says: If one follows along and someone injures him, how could that not be disastrous?
The classical text means: Even without a fault, precautions should be taken; blindly following others brings danger.
The Image means: If one blindly follows others, what can be done about such danger?
Detailed explanation of the fourth line, Nine in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Fourth Nine line
Nine in the fourth place: No blame. Do not go beyond; meet him. Going forward brings danger; one must be warned. Do not employ it; remain steadfast forever.
The Image says: “Do not go beyond; meet him”—the position is inappropriate. “Going forward brings danger; one must be warned”—in the end, it cannot last.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fourth place: There is no error. Do not blame him, but prevent an error from occurring. If you go forward into danger, you must warn him immediately; there is no need to divine later fortune or misfortune.
The Image says: Do not overcriticize, but prevent error, because the firm line Nine in the fourth place occupies a yielding position, like a person in an unfavorable situation who is prone to mistakes. Going forward into danger must be warned against, because knowingly committing the offense can only hasten one’s failure.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should follow established routines and guard their duties; they must not act recklessly.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Observe the situation; do not act rashly.
Wealth: Know when enough is enough; do not become excessively greedy.
Household: It is best to live quietly; do not rush into matchmaking.
Health: Rest quietly and nourish the spirit.
Transformation of the Fourth Nine line
When the fourth line changes, it becomes Hexagram 15 of the Zhouyi: Humility, Earth over Mountain. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Mountain below and Earth above, repeated. Mountain is on the ground; the earth is low and the mountain high, meaning what is inwardly high and outwardly low. It describes great merit without self-importance, high reputation without self-praise, and high position without arrogance. This is Humility.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
The fourth line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, Nine in the fourth place: No blame; do not go beyond, meet him. Going forward brings danger; one must be warned. Do not employ it; remain steadfast forever. Explanation of the line statement
The meaning of this line statement is: There is no error; in all matters, do not force things excessively, but wait for the other person to meet you willingly. If you go actively toward him, danger will arise. You must remain vigilant, must not display your abilities, and must forever uphold the middle and upright way.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the fourth place is a firm line in a yielding position, facing the ruler’s position at Six in the fifth place. Nine in the fourth place occupies an improper position, so it is best to carefully maintain the yielding path. It must not actively flatter or try to conquer Six in the fifth place in order to win its employment. It should only wait for Six in the fifth place to come and “meet it” voluntarily. Before the ruler, do not show off excessively; remain vigilant and uphold the middle and upright way forever, and you can remain safe.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Do not go beyond; meet him”—the position is inappropriate. “Going forward brings danger; one must be warned”—in the end, it cannot last. This points out that one must not force matters excessively but wait for others to meet willingly, because Nine in the fourth place is firm in a yielding position and is improperly placed. “If one goes actively toward him, danger will arise” means that active accommodation will ultimately be unable to last.
Those who obtain this line should remain in a passive position in work or love, waiting for the right moment rather than taking the initiative; otherwise, it will be difficult to last. Do not seek out your leader to tell him how capable you are and ask him to employ you; do not seek out your lover to tell her or him how excellent and devoted you are and ask to be accepted. Such actions are asking for trouble, and the outcome will be unlikely to meet your wishes.
Nine in the fourth place: No blame; do not go beyond, meet him. Going forward brings danger; one must be warned. Do not employ it; remain steadfast forever. The Image says: “Do not go beyond; meet him”—the position is inappropriate. “Going forward brings danger; one must be warned”—in the end, it cannot last.
The classical text means: There is no disaster. Do not go beyond; you can meet him. Going forward is dangerous, so be sure to guard against it. Do not cling excessively to the upright path.
The Image means: Do not go beyond; you can meet him, because Nine in the fourth place occupies an inappropriate position. Going forward is dangerous and must be guarded against, showing that it will not last in the end.
Detailed explanation of the fifth line, Six in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Six in the fifth place line statement
Six in the fifth place: Dense clouds, but no rain, from my western outskirts. The duke shoots with a cord and captures what is in the cave.
The Image says: Dense clouds but no rain—the clouds have already risen.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the fifth place: Over my western outskirts, the clouds are dense and rain is about to fall. The duke went out to shoot birds but captured a wild animal in a cave.
The Image says: Dense clouds; rain is about to fall, because the rain clouds have gathered in the sky.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should not pursue undertakings; preserving the old ways is best. Officials face the danger of being dismissed.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: A plain period; major undertakings are difficult to accomplish.
Wealth: A small gain can be obtained; do not think of much more.
Household: A modestly comfortable home; there may be an unsuitable marriage.
Health: Acupuncture and moxibustion may cure it.
Six in the fifth place changing hexagram
When the fifth line changes, it becomes Hexagram 31 of the Zhouyi: Influence, Lake over Mountain. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Mountain below and Lake above, repeated. Mountain is below and Lake is water. The yielding is above and the firm below; water seeps downward, the yielding rises and the firm descends, and they respond to one another. Through influence, completion is achieved.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
The fifth line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, line statement: Six in the fifth place: Dense clouds but no rain, from my western outskirts; the duke shoots with a cord and captures what is in the cave. Explanation of the line statement
“Shooting with a cord” refers to an arrow attached to a cord. Here it conveys the meaning of sincerely seeking and visiting. “Cave” means a cave dwelling; here it refers to a recluse.
The meaning of this line statement is: Dark clouds from the western outskirts fill the sky but cannot bring rain. The dukes use fine cords tied to arrows to shoot the wild animals hiding in caves.
From the hexagram image, Six in the fifth place is a yielding line occupying the ruler’s position, but it is out of place, symbolizing poor ability to govern the state. “Dense clouds but no rain, from my western outskirts”: in the view of the ancients, clouds moving from west to east would not bring rain.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Dense clouds but no rain—the clouds have already risen.” This points out that dark clouds fill the sky without rain because yin energy exceeds yang energy; yin and yang do not harmonize, so rain cannot form. This is like a ruler who is sovereign of the country but cannot bestow grace upon the world. At such a time, one should, like a hunter, seek out capable people and recluses to come and assist, joining with yang energy so that the world can be governed.
Those who obtain this line may be in a leadership position, but their abilities are limited. The urgent task now is to find capable people to assist them. In marriage and romance, they should likewise seek someone complementary. Those who obtain this line have a desired undertaking that is still taking shape; they must wait patiently and avoid rash action.
Six in the fifth place: Dense clouds but no rain, from my western outskirts; the duke shoots with a cord and captures what is in the cave.
The Image says: Dense clouds but no rain—the clouds have already risen.
Detailed explanation of the top line, Upper Six in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Upper Six line statement
Upper Six: Do not meet; go beyond it. The flying bird is caught in a net. Misfortune. This is called calamity and human disaster.
The Image says: “Do not meet; go beyond it”—it has already become excessive.
Explanation in plain language
Upper Six: Without restraining it, he consequently commits an error, like a flying bird entering a net. How dangerous! This is called calamity.
The Image says: Without restraint, he commits an error; as shown by the image of the yielding line in the upper position, the person has become too reckless.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line have poor timing and do not know when to retreat and hold their ground; excessive rigidity leads to breaking.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Not knowing when to retreat, one brings disaster upon oneself.
Wealth: The timing is wrong; there will be losses rather than gains.
Household: An image of separation; beware of schemes by treacherous people.
Health: A dangerous illness; seek a good doctor quickly.
Upper Six changing hexagram
When the top line changes, it becomes Hexagram 56 of the Zhouyi: The Wanderer, Fire over Mountain. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Mountain below and Fire above, repeated. It is opposite to Abundance and forms an inverse hexagram with it. Fire burns in the mountains without stopping, spreading continuously forward like travelers hurrying along a road. Hence it is called the Wanderer hexagram.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
The sixth line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, line statement: Upper Six: Do not meet; go beyond it. The flying bird is caught in a net. Misfortune. This is called calamity and human disaster. Explanation of the line statement
“Calamity and human disaster”: A disaster sent by Heaven is called calamity; a disaster caused by people is called human disaster.
The meaning of this line statement is: There was no meeting; he went beyond, and the flying bird fell into a net. There is misfortune. This is both natural disaster and human-caused disaster.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Do not meet; go beyond it”—it has already become excessive. This points out that “not meeting and going beyond” means the excess has reached its extreme; it could not be more dangerous.
Those who obtain this line must understand the principle of humility, retreat, and self-restraint. You may be highly capable or a veteran of your company or organization, but because you have a poor relationship with the current leader, if you act on your own without support, you will certainly encounter trouble. If you refuse advice and insist on doing something contrary to reason, it is like a flying bird throwing itself into a net—you will have brought the blame upon yourself.
Upper Six: Do not meet; go beyond it. The flying bird is caught in a net. Misfortune. This is called calamity and human disaster.
The Image says: “Do not meet; go beyond it”—it has already become excessive.
The classical text means: Not meeting but going beyond; the flying bird is caught in a net. Danger—this truly is calamity.
Initial Six line statement
Six at the beginning: A flying bird brings misfortune.
The Image says: A flying bird brings misfortune; nothing can be done about it.
Explanation in plain language
Six at the beginning: A bird flying through the sky signals danger.
The Image Commentary says: A bird flying through the sky signals danger; this is an unavoidable matter.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who receive this line lack favorable timing, and disaster arrives suddenly. Officials worry about sudden calamity. For scholars, it may indicate a sudden rise to prominence.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Timing: Failing to remain content with one’s place leads to worrying results.
Finances: Overestimating your abilities makes failure unavoidable.
Home: The house should be low and small; the families should be well matched.
Health: The spirit and consciousness are difficult to preserve.
Initial Six changing hexagram
When the first line changes, it becomes Hexagram 55: Thunder over Fire, Abundance. This hexagram consists of contrasting trigrams, Li below and Zhen above, repeated together. Lightning flashes and thunder roars, signifying great achievement and reaching a peak, like the sun at midday. A warning: things must develop toward the opposite direction; prosperity and decline are impermanent, so one must remain vigilant.
Philosophical meaning of the First Nine line
The first line of Small Exceeding, line statement: Six at the beginning: A flying bird brings misfortune. Explanation of the line statement
The meaning of this line statement is: A bird forcing its flight upward will encounter danger.
From the hexagram image, Six at the beginning is a yielding line in a firm position. Its talent and substance are weak, yet it is active and eager to show its ability, like a young bird that has just learned to fly: its wings are not yet fully grown, but it insists on flying high, which will inevitably bring danger.
The Image explains this line as follows: “A flying bird brings misfortune”—there is nothing that can be done. This points out that “a bird flying forcefully upward will encounter danger”; the trouble is self-inflicted and unavoidable.
Those who obtain this hexagram should consider their actual abilities. Until their abilities, knowledge, and experience have reached a certain level, they should not seek a higher position or dream of making a great fortune. At this time, do not ask for too much; begin with small matters around you, learn gradually, and proceed step by step.
Six at the beginning: A flying bird brings misfortune.
The Image says: A flying bird brings misfortune; nothing can be done about it.
The classical text means: A flying bird brings danger.
The Image means: A flying bird brings danger, and there is no way to save it.
Detailed explanation of the second line, Nine in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Six in the second place line statement
Six in the second place: Passing by his grandfather, he meets his grandmother. Not reaching his ruler, he meets his minister. No blame.
The Image says: Not reaching his ruler means that a minister must not go beyond his ruler.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the second place: He missed his grandfather but met his grandmother; he did not reach the ruler but met his ministers. Though there was a delay, it was not in vain, and therefore there is no disaster.
The Image says: Not reaching the ruler is because a minister should not surpass the ruler.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line will receive guidance from a noble helper and succeed in their plans. Officials should be strict with themselves and faithfully uphold their duties; promotion may then be expected.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: A smooth period; having half is already sufficient.
Wealth: Though you may not have a full load, half is acceptable.
Household: An image of unrest; there may be an unsuitable match.
Health: The medicine has not taken effect; continue treatment.
Six in the second place changing hexagram
When the second line changes, it becomes Hexagram 32 of the Zhouyi: Duration, Thunder over Wind. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Wind below and Thunder above, repeated. Thunder represents the male and thunder; Wind represents the female and wind. The firm is above and the yielding below. Firm above and yielding below: creation follows a constant pattern, and they nourish each other. Yin and yang respond to each other in the normal order, hence the name Duration.
Philosophical meaning of the Second Nine line
The second line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, line statement: Six in the second place: Passing by his grandfather, he meets his grandmother; not reaching his ruler, he meets his minister; no blame. Explanation of the line statement
“Grandfather” refers to the paternal grandfather. “Grandmother” here refers to the paternal grandmother.
The meaning of this line statement is: When seeking instructions about family matters, one may ask the grandmother without going through the grandfather. When seeking instructions about affairs of state, if one cannot directly request an audience with the ruler, one may consult the ruler’s close ministers, and there will be no error.
From the hexagram image, Six in the second place is a yielding line in a yielding place, centered and upright, so its actions carefully follow rules and proper conduct. In ancient society, the family operated under patriarchal authority, and matters had to be submitted to the head of the family. This junior member did not ask the grandfather but passed over him to ask the grandmother. Since household chores concerned minor matters, this was not an error. For a minister, however, it is impermissible to bypass the ruler; one must ask the ruler. Only when a direct audience is impossible may one consult the ruler’s close ministers.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Not reaching his ruler”—a minister must not go beyond his ruler. This points out that one must not presumptuously bypass the ruler’s position, because a minister cannot surpass the supreme authority.
Those who obtain this line must follow the rules and regulations of their organization. When requesting instructions or reporting, they must address the principal leader and must not overstep their position or approach the wrong person. In the family, they should also respect their elders. Although society is no longer patriarchal and many matters may be decided independently, it is still better to consult them out of respect.
Six in the second place: Passing by his grandfather, he meets his grandmother; not reaching his ruler, he meets his minister; no blame.
The Image says: Not reaching his ruler means that a minister must not go beyond his ruler.
Detailed explanation of the third line, Nine in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Third Nine line
Nine in the third place: Do not go beyond; guard against it. If one follows along, someone may injure him. Misfortune.
The Image says: If one follows along and someone injures him, how could that not be disastrous?
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the third place: Do not overcriticize him, but stop his error from developing. If you let him run unchecked, you will instead harm him, and danger is sure to follow.
The Image says: Letting him run unchecked and thereby harming him is the height of danger, beyond description.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line have poor timing and should guard carefully against accidents. Officials must beware of being harmed by petty and treacherous people.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Do not advance rashly; protect yourself to avoid trouble.
Wealth: Going out to conduct business; beware of thieves.
Household: Guard carefully against misfortune; beware of enemies.
Health: Wounds from blades are dangerous.
Transformation of the Third Nine line
When the third line changes, it becomes Hexagram 16 of the Zhouyi: Delight, Thunder over Earth. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Earth below and Thunder above, repeated. Earth means receptivity and obedience; Thunder means movement. Thunder emerges in season, foretelling spring’s return to the earth. Movement arising from compliance is the source of harmony and joy. This hexagram and Humility are inverse hexagrams and interact with each other.
The philosophical meaning of the line of Nine in the third place
The third line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, Nine in the third place: Do not go beyond; guard against it. If one follows along, someone may injure him. Misfortune. Explanation of the line statement
“Do not go beyond” means do not go too far. “Injure” means to harm.
The meaning of this line statement is: Relying on one’s strength and refusing to take sufficient precautions will lead to being harmed by others, hence misfortune.
The Image says: “If one follows along, someone may injure him”—how could this not be disastrous? This emphasizes how serious the danger of being harmed by others is.
Those who obtain this line should be content with their present circumstances. Do not become resentful or defiant merely because you have backing from above or someone appreciates you. Do not go to extremes in your actions; remain alert at all times to unexpected calamity. If you stay clearheaded, do not rely on your own toughness, and do not cross the middle path or violate convention, you can avoid disaster.
Nine in the third place: Do not go beyond; guard against it. If one follows along, someone may injure him. Misfortune.
The Image says: If one follows along and someone injures him, how could that not be disastrous?
The classical text means: Even without a fault, precautions should be taken; blindly following others brings danger.
The Image means: If one blindly follows others, what can be done about such danger?
Detailed explanation of the fourth line, Nine in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Statement of the Fourth Nine line
Nine in the fourth place: No blame. Do not go beyond; meet him. Going forward brings danger; one must be warned. Do not employ it; remain steadfast forever.
The Image says: “Do not go beyond; meet him”—the position is inappropriate. “Going forward brings danger; one must be warned”—in the end, it cannot last.
Explanation in plain language
Nine in the fourth place: There is no error. Do not blame him, but prevent an error from occurring. If you go forward into danger, you must warn him immediately; there is no need to divine later fortune or misfortune.
The Image says: Do not overcriticize, but prevent error, because the firm line Nine in the fourth place occupies a yielding position, like a person in an unfavorable situation who is prone to mistakes. Going forward into danger must be warned against, because knowingly committing the offense can only hasten one’s failure.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should follow established routines and guard their duties; they must not act recklessly.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Observe the situation; do not act rashly.
Wealth: Know when enough is enough; do not become excessively greedy.
Household: It is best to live quietly; do not rush into matchmaking.
Health: Rest quietly and nourish the spirit.
Transformation of the Fourth Nine line
When the fourth line changes, it becomes Hexagram 15 of the Zhouyi: Humility, Earth over Mountain. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Mountain below and Earth above, repeated. Mountain is on the ground; the earth is low and the mountain high, meaning what is inwardly high and outwardly low. It describes great merit without self-importance, high reputation without self-praise, and high position without arrogance. This is Humility.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fourth place line
The fourth line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, Nine in the fourth place: No blame; do not go beyond, meet him. Going forward brings danger; one must be warned. Do not employ it; remain steadfast forever. Explanation of the line statement
The meaning of this line statement is: There is no error; in all matters, do not force things excessively, but wait for the other person to meet you willingly. If you go actively toward him, danger will arise. You must remain vigilant, must not display your abilities, and must forever uphold the middle and upright way.
From the hexagram image, Nine in the fourth place is a firm line in a yielding position, facing the ruler’s position at Six in the fifth place. Nine in the fourth place occupies an improper position, so it is best to carefully maintain the yielding path. It must not actively flatter or try to conquer Six in the fifth place in order to win its employment. It should only wait for Six in the fifth place to come and “meet it” voluntarily. Before the ruler, do not show off excessively; remain vigilant and uphold the middle and upright way forever, and you can remain safe.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Do not go beyond; meet him”—the position is inappropriate. “Going forward brings danger; one must be warned”—in the end, it cannot last. This points out that one must not force matters excessively but wait for others to meet willingly, because Nine in the fourth place is firm in a yielding position and is improperly placed. “If one goes actively toward him, danger will arise” means that active accommodation will ultimately be unable to last.
Those who obtain this line should remain in a passive position in work or love, waiting for the right moment rather than taking the initiative; otherwise, it will be difficult to last. Do not seek out your leader to tell him how capable you are and ask him to employ you; do not seek out your lover to tell her or him how excellent and devoted you are and ask to be accepted. Such actions are asking for trouble, and the outcome will be unlikely to meet your wishes.
Nine in the fourth place: No blame; do not go beyond, meet him. Going forward brings danger; one must be warned. Do not employ it; remain steadfast forever. The Image says: “Do not go beyond; meet him”—the position is inappropriate. “Going forward brings danger; one must be warned”—in the end, it cannot last.
The classical text means: There is no disaster. Do not go beyond; you can meet him. Going forward is dangerous, so be sure to guard against it. Do not cling excessively to the upright path.
The Image means: Do not go beyond; you can meet him, because Nine in the fourth place occupies an inappropriate position. Going forward is dangerous and must be guarded against, showing that it will not last in the end.
Detailed explanation of the fifth line, Six in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Six in the fifth place line statement
Six in the fifth place: Dense clouds, but no rain, from my western outskirts. The duke shoots with a cord and captures what is in the cave.
The Image says: Dense clouds but no rain—the clouds have already risen.
Explanation in plain language
Six in the fifth place: Over my western outskirts, the clouds are dense and rain is about to fall. The duke went out to shoot birds but captured a wild animal in a cave.
The Image says: Dense clouds; rain is about to fall, because the rain clouds have gathered in the sky.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Neutral: Those who obtain this line should not pursue undertakings; preserving the old ways is best. Officials face the danger of being dismissed.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: A plain period; major undertakings are difficult to accomplish.
Wealth: A small gain can be obtained; do not think of much more.
Household: A modestly comfortable home; there may be an unsuitable marriage.
Health: Acupuncture and moxibustion may cure it.
Six in the fifth place changing hexagram
When the fifth line changes, it becomes Hexagram 31 of the Zhouyi: Influence, Lake over Mountain. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Mountain below and Lake above, repeated. Mountain is below and Lake is water. The yielding is above and the firm below; water seeps downward, the yielding rises and the firm descends, and they respond to one another. Through influence, completion is achieved.
Philosophical meaning of the Nine in the fifth place line
The fifth line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, line statement: Six in the fifth place: Dense clouds but no rain, from my western outskirts; the duke shoots with a cord and captures what is in the cave. Explanation of the line statement
“Shooting with a cord” refers to an arrow attached to a cord. Here it conveys the meaning of sincerely seeking and visiting. “Cave” means a cave dwelling; here it refers to a recluse.
The meaning of this line statement is: Dark clouds from the western outskirts fill the sky but cannot bring rain. The dukes use fine cords tied to arrows to shoot the wild animals hiding in caves.
From the hexagram image, Six in the fifth place is a yielding line occupying the ruler’s position, but it is out of place, symbolizing poor ability to govern the state. “Dense clouds but no rain, from my western outskirts”: in the view of the ancients, clouds moving from west to east would not bring rain.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Dense clouds but no rain—the clouds have already risen.” This points out that dark clouds fill the sky without rain because yin energy exceeds yang energy; yin and yang do not harmonize, so rain cannot form. This is like a ruler who is sovereign of the country but cannot bestow grace upon the world. At such a time, one should, like a hunter, seek out capable people and recluses to come and assist, joining with yang energy so that the world can be governed.
Those who obtain this line may be in a leadership position, but their abilities are limited. The urgent task now is to find capable people to assist them. In marriage and romance, they should likewise seek someone complementary. Those who obtain this line have a desired undertaking that is still taking shape; they must wait patiently and avoid rash action.
Six in the fifth place: Dense clouds but no rain, from my western outskirts; the duke shoots with a cord and captures what is in the cave.
The Image says: Dense clouds but no rain—the clouds have already risen.
Detailed explanation of the top line, Upper Six in Hexagram 62 of the Zhouyi
Upper Six line statement
Upper Six: Do not meet; go beyond it. The flying bird is caught in a net. Misfortune. This is called calamity and human disaster.
The Image says: “Do not meet; go beyond it”—it has already become excessive.
Explanation in plain language
Upper Six: Without restraining it, he consequently commits an error, like a flying bird entering a net. How dangerous! This is called calamity.
The Image says: Without restraint, he commits an error; as shown by the image of the yielding line in the upper position, the person has become too reckless.
Explanation by Shao Yong, a Northern Song scholar of the Changes
Misfortune: Those who obtain this line have poor timing and do not know when to retreat and hold their ground; excessive rigidity leads to breaking.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, a Taiwanese master of traditional Chinese learning
Fortune: Not knowing when to retreat, one brings disaster upon oneself.
Wealth: The timing is wrong; there will be losses rather than gains.
Household: An image of separation; beware of schemes by treacherous people.
Health: A dangerous illness; seek a good doctor quickly.
Upper Six changing hexagram
When the top line changes, it becomes Hexagram 56 of the Zhouyi: The Wanderer, Fire over Mountain. This hexagram consists of two different trigrams, Mountain below and Fire above, repeated. It is opposite to Abundance and forms an inverse hexagram with it. Fire burns in the mountains without stopping, spreading continuously forward like travelers hurrying along a road. Hence it is called the Wanderer hexagram.
Philosophical meaning of the Upper Nine line
The sixth line of the Small Exceeding hexagram, line statement: Upper Six: Do not meet; go beyond it. The flying bird is caught in a net. Misfortune. This is called calamity and human disaster. Explanation of the line statement
“Calamity and human disaster”: A disaster sent by Heaven is called calamity; a disaster caused by people is called human disaster.
The meaning of this line statement is: There was no meeting; he went beyond, and the flying bird fell into a net. There is misfortune. This is both natural disaster and human-caused disaster.
The Image analyzes this line as follows: “Do not meet; go beyond it”—it has already become excessive. This points out that “not meeting and going beyond” means the excess has reached its extreme; it could not be more dangerous.
Those who obtain this line must understand the principle of humility, retreat, and self-restraint. You may be highly capable or a veteran of your company or organization, but because you have a poor relationship with the current leader, if you act on your own without support, you will certainly encounter trouble. If you refuse advice and insist on doing something contrary to reason, it is like a flying bird throwing itself into a net—you will have brought the blame upon yourself.
Upper Six: Do not meet; go beyond it. The flying bird is caught in a net. Misfortune. This is called calamity and human disaster.
The Image says: “Do not meet; go beyond it”—it has already become excessive.
The classical text means: Not meeting but going beyond; the flying bird is caught in a net. Danger—this truly is calamity.