I Ching · No.22 · Pi / Grace

Primary Hexagram

Original Text (The Judgment)

Pî indicates that there should be free course (in what it denotes). There will be little advantage (however) if it be allowed to advance (and take the lead).

Translation

Pi hexagram. Success. There is a slight advantage in having a destination. The 'Great Symbolism' says: The upper trigram of this hexagram is Gen/Mountain, and the lower trigram is Li/Fire. There is fire under the mountain, fire burning the mountains; this is the image of the Pi hexagram. The noble person observes this symbol, thinks of the fierce fire burning the mountain, jade and stone burned together, vegetation completely consumed, and takes this as a warning, thereby clearly examining various political affairs and not daring to judge legal cases with severity.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Adornment and brightness, outer solidity and inner emptiness; a time of hidden worries, act according to one's capability. Minor misfortune: Those who obtain this hexagram have a grand appearance but are empty inside, with much vanity and little substance. One should enrich oneself, act with prudence, and act according to one's capability.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: There is resistance above; do not act arbitrarily.
• Wealth 财运: The manager is shrewd; beware of being locked in.
• Household 家宅: Beware of fire.
• Health 身体: Pent-up fire rising; use cold medicines with caution.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: At present, things are starting up, and all matters are smooth and suitable, but there is obstruction above, making it impossible to proceed directly as desired.
• Business 营商: Indicates that the manager's ability is strong and bright, sufficient to handle affairs; but the shrewd are bound to be harsh and calculating, so care should still be taken.
• Household 家宅: Fear of fire breaking out in the house at times, fortunately extinguished immediately, causing no great harm.
• Warfare 战征: There is a mountain ahead; it is not easy to attack.
• Illness 疾病: It is an illness of pent-up fire steaming upward; it is advisable to extinguish the fire, yet one must not overuse cold medicines, lest the true fire be extinguished.
• Travelers 行人: Wishing to return but stopping; not yet decided.
• Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by doubling two different trigrams (lower Li, upper Gen). Li is fire and brightness; Gen is mountain and stopping. Cultured and restrained. The Pi hexagram discusses the relationship between ornament (Wen) and substance (Zhi), prioritizing substance and using ornament for moderation. Pi means adornment or decoration.

• Overall Image 大象: The sun setting behind the western mountain, shining brightly, beautiful and splendid, while also symbolizing that the force of light is gradually fading and the force of darkness is expanding.
• Fortune 运势: Grand on the outside but empty on the inside; one must enrich oneself, be down-to-earth in all matters, and proceed step-by-step.
• Career 事业: Smooth, with minor achievements; it is advisable to summarize experience promptly and plot greater development. Establish confidence, and do not dwell on temporary gains and losses. Pursue substantial content, be cautious in all matters, do not drift with the tide, and seek support from influential figures to help oneself.
• Business 经商: Difficulties will be encountered at the beginning, but one should not be discouraged; it is advisable to analyze the situation comprehensively, pioneer boldly, plunge in bravely, unite with others in cooperation, and run the business according to the market.
• Seeking Fame 求名: One should not focus too much on outward appearance, but rather emphasize inner qualities. Recommend oneself boldly, but hold fast to one's ideals.
• Love & Marriage 婚恋: Choose carefully; if there is a suitable partner, pursue them urgently. Do not be half-hearted; must be single-minded. Focus on the partner's inner temperament, and do not be deceived by surface appearances.
• Decision 决策: Prone to focusing on outward appearance, lacking the perseverance to pursue inner temperament. Possessing a somewhat impetuous nature, fond of seeking empty fame, often hitting a wall or giving up halfway because of this. Educated by facts, one will change impractical ways, clearly observe society and life, restrain oneself, become self-controlled, focus on self-cultivation, and fulfill one's career, achieving great things after middle age, and still contributing in old age.

II. Line Statements

Nine at the Beginning 初九

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Line Text (Original)

The first line, undivided, shows one adorning (the way of) his feet. He can discard a carriage and walk on foot.

Line Text (Translation)

Nine at the beginning: Wearing decorated shoes, abandoning the carriage and walking on foot. The 'Great Symbolism' says: Abandoning the carriage and walking on foot; to show the beauty of the shoes, it is reasonable not to ride in the carriage.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Average. Those who obtain this line will be busy and constantly on the move; stillness brings misfortune, action brings good fortune. Officials must guard against the risk of dismissal.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: A lofty and pure personality; virtue excels reputation.
• Wealth 财运: Down-to-earth; though small, it is successful.
• Household 家宅: Building a family through diligence and thrift; contentment keeps one free from disgrace.
• Health 身体: An illness in its initial stage will recover naturally.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Naturally lofty and pure, out of step with current trends; succeeding through virtue, not reputation.
• Business 营商: Must be a trade carried on the shoulders rather than transport by boat or carriage; though small, it is successful.
• Household 家宅: Building the family through diligence and thrift, with a strong style of contentment without disgrace.
• Warfare 战征: Advantageous for the army.
• Travelers 行人: Encountering obstacles midway, returning on foot.
• Illness 疾病: The illness is in its initial stage and can recover without taking medicine.
• Litigation 讼事: Fear of the calamity of penal servitude.
• Lost Items 失物: It has already been abandoned; searching is in vain.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

When one's resting is like that of the back, and he loses all consciousness of self; when he walks in his courtyard, and does not see any (of the persons) in it,--there will be no error.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Gen Hexagram. Shedding responsibilities and retiring from office, he is no longer seen among the court ranks. Seeking him in his courtyard, he is not found. The person goes far away, so there is naturally no disaster. The *Xiang Zhuan* (Image Commentary) says: This hexagram is formed by two Gen trigrams stacked together. Gen represents the mountain; thus, the image of Gen is mountains standing one upon another, deep and stable. The superior man observes this hexagram image, takes it as a warning, does not let his thoughts go beyond his position, and preserves himself through wisdom and prudence.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Stopping and obstructing, there is no further progress; content with one's lot and not being greedy, one must not force things. Minor misfortune: For those who obtain this hexagram, the road ahead is blocked; it is not advisable to advance rashly, but rather to keep watch and wait for an opportunity.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking the same trigrams (Gen below and Gen above). Gen represents the mountain; two mountains stacked together symbolize stillness. It is the opposite of the Zhen (Shock/Thunder) Hexagram. After a climax, a low tide inevitably follows, entering a phase of relative stillness of things. Still as a mountain, one should stop when it is time to stop, and act when it is time to act. Acting and stopping—that is, movement and stillness—must not miss their opportunities; they should be just right, with movement and stillness properly balanced, stopping where appropriate.

Six in the Second Place 二六

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Line Text (Original)

The second line, divided, shows one adorning his beard.

Line Text (Translation)

Six in the second line: Adorning one's beard. The 'Great Symbolism' says: Adorning one's beard; this indicates that the elder refuses to grow old, helping the ruler to revitalize the nation.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Average. Those who obtain this line will receive promotion from others, and good fortune can be expected, but one must also act according to the times and not act willfully to avoid calamity. Officials will accomplish things through others, with hopes of promotion.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Plain and ordinary; accomplishing things by relying on others.
• Wealth 财运: Partnering with wealthy merchants will surely yield profit.
• Household 家宅: Blessings from ancestors; marriage should wait.
• Health 身体: Follow the doctor's advice.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: At present, average; one can only accomplish things by relying on others.
• Business 营商: Partnering in business with wealthy merchants will surely bring great prosperity, auspicious.
• Warfare 战征: Must advance together with the main army to achieve victory.
• Household 家宅: Receiving the blessings of superiors to bring glory to the family gate.
• Marriage 婚嫁: 'The marrying maiden waits'; it is still advisable to wait.
• Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Under the conditions of Tâ Khû it will be advantageous to be firm and correct. (If its subject do not seek to) enjoy his revenues in his own family (without taking service at court), there will be good fortune. It will be advantageous for him to cross the great stream.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

The Hexagram of Ta Ch'u (Great Accumulation / The Taming Power of the Great). A favorable omen of perseverance. Not eating at home, but eating at the court brings good fortune. Divining this hexagram is beneficial for crossing great rivers. The Image says: The inner trigram is Qian (Heaven) and the outer trigram is Gen (Mountain); the sun shines within the mountain, and all things absorb the sunlight, rain, and dew, each fulfilling its life. This is the image of Ta Ch'u. In accordance with this, the gentleman briefs himself on the words and deeds of the ancients to nourish his virtue.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Using Yang to accumulate Yin, restraining the desire to advance; firmly maintaining the correct path, misfortune at first followed by good fortune. A minor fortune: Those who obtain this hexagram should firmly maintain the correct path, keep their feet on the ground, and act practically so as to achieve great things. Do not be proud and self-satisfied, or look down on everything.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking two different trigrams (Qian below and Gen above). Qian is Heaven, strong and vigorous; Gen is Mountain, solid and sincere. 'Chu' means accumulation, so 'Ta Ch'u' means great accumulation. For this reason, one does not fear severe difficulties and dangers, striving to cultivate oneself to enrich one's moral deeds.

Nine in the Third Place 三九

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Line Text (Original)

The third line, undivided, shows its subject with the appearance of being adorned and bedewed (with rich favours). But let him ever maintain his firm correctness, and there will be good fortune.

Line Text (Translation)

Nine in the third line: Running forward, soaked in sweat. Divining on long-term fortune yields an auspicious omen. The 'Great Symbolism' says: Eternal perseverance brings good fortune, because no one will ever encroach upon a righteous person.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Auspicious. Those who obtain this line will experience good fortune, naturally thriving without effort; even if there are disputes, they are not a cause for concern. Officials will live in harmony with others and occupy key positions.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Winning both fame and wealth, shining with splendor.
• Wealth 财运: Financial resources flow like water; the foundation can be preserved.
• Household 家宅: Can reside long-term; growing old together.
• Health 身体: Swimming for fitness.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Amidst this prosperous fortune, shining with splendor, winning both fame and wealth, great success.
• Business 营商: Financial resources flow like water, gaining great moisture; the foundation can also be preserved for a long time, very auspicious.
• Household 家宅: The house is splendid and clean, and enhanced by flowing water; it is suitable for long-term residence, auspicious.
• Warfare 战征: The entire army feels the influence of virtue, rejoicing in unity; the righteous army can be called invincible.
• Litigation 讼事: Vindicated; the other party will not dare to offend again.
• Marriage 婚嫁: Growing old together, auspicious.
• Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a son.
• Travelers 行人: Returning home in silk robes and glory.
• Lost Items 失物: Search in the water, will find it.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Î indicates that with firm correctness there will be good fortune (in what is denoted by it). We must look at what we are seeking to nourish, and by the exercise of our thoughts seek for the proper aliment.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

The Yi Hexagram. Divination brings good fortune. The study of the way of nourishment lies in being self-reliant. The Image says: The upper trigram of this hexagram is Gen as Mountain, and the lower trigram is Zhen as Thunder. Thunder issues from the mountain, and all things sprout and grow; this is the image of the Yi Hexagram. The superior person, observing this image, contemplates the difficulty of sustaining life and growth, thereby being cautious in speech to avoid disaster, and temperate in eating and drinking to cultivate character.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Nurturing correctness and providing nourishment, being cautious in speech and temperate in food; observing practical matters, and knowing self-scrutiny and prudence. Minor misfortune: Those who obtain this hexagram must be cautious regarding speech and diet. One should adhere to the correct path and be prudent in word and deed; those harboring conspiracies will invite disaster.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by doubling two different trigrams (Zhen below and Gen above). Zhen is Thunder and Gen is Mountain. Mountain is above and Thunder is below; solid on the outside and hollow on the inside. The warmth of spring nurtures all things, nourishing the worthy and educating the people in accordance with the seasons. Yang is solid and Yin is empty; the solid nourishes others, while the empty is nourished by others. Be self-reliant.

Six in the Fourth Place 四六

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Line Text (Original)

The fourth line, divided, shows one looking as if adorned, but only in white. As if (mounted on) a white horse, and furnished with wings, (he seeks union with the subject of the first line), while (the intervening third pursues), not as a robber, but intent on a matrimonial alliance.

Line Text (Translation)

Six in the fourth line: Running out of breath under the blazing sun. A white horse gallops forward. Not coming to plunder, but coming to wed. The 'Great Symbolism' says: Six in the fourth line is a yin line in a yin position, situated appropriately. Once it is known that they are not coming to plunder but to wed, doubts melt away, and in the end there is no disaster.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Average. Those who obtain this line will experience misfortune followed by good fortune, with joy amidst worry; though there is danger, peace is ultimately achieved. The unmarried have hope of forming a family. For officials, it is difficult at first and easy later.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Staying in one's place brings good fortune; next year will be prosperous.
• Wealth 财运: Sell early and liquidate for profit.
• Household 家宅: A funeral first, followed by a wedding.
• Health 身体: Qi blocked in the chest; regulate upper and lower flows.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Currently, fortune is obstructed; staying in one's place brings good fortune, and next year will be prosperous.
• Business 营商: Should sell quickly; delay may cause the goods to change color.
• Household 家宅: Within one house, there is both a funeral and a wedding; blocked at first and open later, without blame.
• Warfare 战征: There are proposals for peace through marriage and friendly relations.
• Illness 疾病: There is obstruction in the middle of the chest, causing disharmony between upper and lower; once the accumulation is digested, there will be no blame.
• Fellow Travelers 同行人: Lingering due to affection for a female companion, not returning for the moment.
• Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Lî indicates that, (in regard to what it denotes), it will be advantageous to be firm and correct, and that thus there will be free course and success. Let (its subject) also nourish (a docility like that of) the cow, and there will be good fortune.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Li Hexagram. Auspicious divination, smooth and prosperous. Raising a cow brings good fortune. The Image says: The sun rises today, and the sun rises tomorrow, continuing without pause; this is the image of Li. Observing this image, the nobility and princes illuminate the four quarters with an endless flow of light.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Clinging to light, being humble and advancing slowly; just and gentle, conforming and keeping to one's course brings good fortune. Minor good fortune: Those who obtain this hexagram should be humble and cautious, and progress steadily, then the future will be bright. Those who advance hastily or act on impulse will surely suffer losses.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by doubling the same trigram (Li below and Li above). Li means beauty and clinging (attachment); a single Yin line clings to the two Yang lines above and below. The hexagram symbolizes fire, hollow inside and bright outside. Li represents fire and brightness; the sun rises and sets repeatedly, running endlessly, with gentleness and compliance at heart.

Six in the Fifth Place 五六

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Line Text (Original)

The fifth line, divided, shows its subject adorned by (the occupants of) the heights and gardens. He bears his roll of silk, small and slight. He may appear stingy; but there will be good fortune in the end.

Line Text (Translation)

Six in the fifth line: Moving toward hills and gardens, presenting many bolts of silk. Difficulties at first, but smooth in the end. The 'Great Symbolism' says: The good fortune mentioned in the line text of Six in the fifth line refers to the joy of marriage.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Auspicious. Those who obtain this line will meet benefactors, gain profit in business, and have many joyous events. Unoccupied officials will be heavily relied upon, and active ones will enjoy both blessings and wealth.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Although in a proper fortune, diligence and thrift are advisable.
• Wealth 财运: Both timber and silk can yield profit.
• Household 家宅: Diligence and thrift in family style; a virtuous wife brings joy.
• Health 身体: Recuperating in gardens and forests.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Currently experiencing proper fortune, yet in all matters, thrift and diligence bring good fortune.
• Business 营商: The trade is most suited to timber and silk; there is no need for large quantities of goods, yet the profit is excellent.
• Household 家宅: Farming and sericulture as occupation, family style of diligence and thrift, auspicious.
• Warfare 战征: It is advisable to recruit local elders to serve as guides to achieve victory.
• Marriage 婚嫁: Although the betrothal gifts are meager, it is fortunate to obtain a virtuous wife, a great joy.
• Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a son.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

For (the realisation of what is taught in) Kiâ Zăn, (or for the regulation of the family), what is most advantageous is that the wife be firm and correct.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

The Chia Jên (Family) hexagram. Divination regarding the affairs of women is auspicious. The Image says: The outer trigram of this hexagram is Sun, and Sun represents wind; the inner trigram is Li, and Li represents fire. Fire within and wind without: wind assists the fire's force, and fire assists the wind's power, complementing each other, which is the image of the Family. The gentleman observes this image, thereby realizing that his words must have substance so as not to be empty, and his conduct must be persistent to be abundant.

Shao Yong's Commentary

People's hearts turn inward, and the family way flourishes; strict, upright, and constant, their minds cannot be swayed. Slightly auspicious: For those who obtain this hexagram, collaborating and working with others will be beneficial, and there are many signs of happy events. Those with harmonious families can work together with one heart to develop their careers.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by doubling two different trigrams (Li below and Sun above). Li represents fire; Sun represents wind. Fire makes hot air rise, becoming wind. All things should be based on the internal, and then extend to the external. What originates within takes shape without. It metaphorically implies governing the family first, and then governing the world. When the family way is correct, the world will be at peace and happy.

Nine at the Top 上九

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Line Text (Original)

The sixth line, undivided, shows one with white as his (only) ornament. There will be no error.

Line Text (Translation)

Nine at the top: Presenting silk with a white background decorated with patterns of various colors; it will not lead to failure. The 'Great Symbolism' says: Silk with a white background decorated with patterns of various colors has no calamity, because Nine at the top occupies the supreme position of the hexagram, like a person standing high above, fully satisfied and self-complacent.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Average. Those who obtain this line must guard against good fortune turning into misfortune, or elder family members/relatives reaching the end of their lives. Officials will be promoted.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Good fortune has ended; be tranquil and content.
• Wealth 财运: Direct sales are still profitable.
• Household 家宅: Pure and noble.
• Health 身体: Clearing heat with pure conversation; may pass away.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

• Fortune 时运: Good fortune has ended; the weary should return to ease, and the active should return to quiet, enjoying themselves and finding amusement.
• Business 营商: Currently, prices are already high and the season is ending; there is no need for decoration, they can be sold as they are and profit will surely be gained.
• Household 家宅: A clean and pure family style, occupying a high position, auspicious.
• Warfare 战征: Serving as a general, with a magnificent array and upright banners, winning naturally without relying on deceitful plans or strange stratagems. Auspicious.
• Illness 疾病: Illness is in the upper burner; it is advisable to use mild remedies, auspicious.
• Travelers 行人: Returning with profits.
• Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a son.
• Lost Items 失物: Search in high places, will find it.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Ming Î indicates that (in the circumstances which it denotes) it will be advantageous to realise the difficulty (of the position), and maintain firm correctness.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Ming I (Darkening of the light) Hexagram. It is beneficial to divine about difficult matters. The Image says: The inner hexagram of this hexagram is Li, Li is the sun; the outer hexagram is Kun, Kun is the earth. The sun sinking into the earth is the image of Darkening of the light. Observing this image, the gentleman governs the people and administers the government not by being harshly scrutinizing to show intelligence, but by being outwardly simple and inwardly wise, tolerating things and drawing close to the masses.

Shao Yong's Commentary

The sun enters into the earth, and the light is damaged; all things are obstructed, waiting for fortune. Inauspicious: For those who get this hexagram, their fortune is poor, and everything is laborious. They should firmly adhere to the correct path, be patient and self-respecting, and await the opportunity.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by doubling different trigrams (Li below, Kun above). Li is light, Kun is obedience; Li is the sun, Kun is the earth. The sun sinks into the earth, light is damaged, the future is unclear, and the environment is difficult. It is advisable to follow the times and nurture obscurity, firmly adhere to the correct path, be outwardly simple and inwardly wise, and hide one's light and nurture obscurity.

III. Casting Example

You can use this site's I Ching divination tool to cast a hexagram and see this hexagram applied in practice. You may also try Plum Blossom Numerology and Xiao Liu Ren to explore other divination methods.