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I Ching · No.35 · Chin / Progress

Chin / Progress (Hexagram 35): English translation of the I Ching judgment, line statements and changing-line readings.

Primary Hexagram

Six RelativesNajiaChin / Progress
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Parent 父母Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄
Sibling 兄弟Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Self 世
Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄
Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应

Original Text (The Judgment)

In Ȝin we see a prince who secures the tranquillity (of the people) presented on that account with numerous horses (by the king), and three times in a day received at interviews.

Translation

Hexagram Chin (Progress). Marquis Kang used the fine horses bestowed by King Cheng to breed horses, mating them multiple times in a single day. The Xiang Commentary (The Image) says: 'The upper trigram of this hexagram is Li, representing the sun; the lower trigram is Kun, representing the earth. The sun shines upon the earth, and all things are bathed in its glory'—this is the image of Chin. In accordance with this, the superior man brightens his own bright virtue.

Shao Yong's Commentary

The sun rises above the earth, and all things progress; rewards are generous, and all plans succeed. Auspicious: For those who obtain this hexagram, it is like the rising sun, with booming fortune, abundant income, successful undertakings, and everything going as desired.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Good fortune has newly arrived, rising step by step.
  • Wealth 财运: Industries associated with light or brightness yield the greatest profit.
  • Household 家宅: A sunlit house.
  • Health 身体: Self-awareness.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Good fortune is newly arriving, like the morning sun just emerging, rising higher and higher, shining its bright light everywhere. Auspicious.
  • Warfare 战征: When the army first sets out, it should advance smoothly along the path; it is suitable for daytime battle, but not for nighttime attack.
  • Business 营商: Most beneficial for businesses related to coal, geothermal energy, and fire, drawing upon their brightness. Auspicious.
  • Fame & Career 功名: An image of rapid promotion and fame just around the corner. Auspicious.
  • Litigation 讼事: It is best to turn inward and examine one's own faults.
  • Household 家宅: This house faces southeast, is spacious and bright, and receives the auspicious light of the sun. Extremely auspicious.
  • Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.
  • Lost Items 失物: Search for it in the main hall; it will be found.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking two different trigrams (Kun below and Li above). Li is the sun, representing brightness; Kun is the earth. The sun hangs high, illuminating the earth; the earth is humble and receptive, and all things grow. It is open, honest, gentle in its advance, and moving upward, symbolizing a flourishing and progressing career.

  • Overall Image 大象: The sun rises above the ground, illuminating the earth; there is an image of bright progress.
  • Fortune 运势: Career, reputation, and wealth are all auspicious; it is a sign of promotion and advancement in rank.
  • Career 事业: Smooth. One should adhere to the correct path, meet difficulties head-on, overcome the enemy to win, and guide actions according to circumstances. Establish good interpersonal relationships and win the hearts of others. Go all out without any hesitation, and avoid being indecisive; rather, do not be discouraged by defeat and press forward courageously. Pay attention to working together in harmony and progressing together.
  • Business 经商: Good market conditions. Market competition goes smoothly. However, some difficulties will also be encountered; one must face them head-on, guide actions according to circumstances, and defeat the obstacles. Strive for the support of the public. Setbacks on the way forward are inevitable, but as long as motives are pure, danger will surely be turned into safety.
  • Seeking Fame 求名: Through hard work and struggle, the foundation for pioneering a career has been laid, but due to a lack of recommendation, success is temporarily out of reach. One must never give up on oneself because of this, but must wait patiently for the right opportunity. Meanwhile, actively create favorable conditions.
  • Love & Marriage 婚恋: Auspicious stars shine high. There will be an ideal outcome, but one must never behave indifferently or be overly critical due to self-conceit over superior conditions.
  • Decision 决策: In a continuously rising situation, there will be no excessive resistance. However, one must strive to gain the trust of others, win their hearts, and make persistent efforts. As long as motives are pure and a speculative mindset is overcome, joy will surely descend from heaven.

II. Line Statements

Six at the Beginning 初六

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Six RelativesNajiaChin / ProgressSix RelativesNajiaShih Ho / Biting Through
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄Offspring 子孙Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Parent 父母Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄Wealth 妻财Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄  Self 世
Sibling 兄弟Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Self 世Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄Wealth 妻财Geng Chen 庚辰▄▄           ▄▄
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄Sibling 兄弟Geng Yin 庚寅▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应
Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应 × →Parent 父母Geng Zi 庚子▄▄▄▄▄▄▄

Line Text (Original)

The first line, divided, shows one wishing to advance, and (at the same time) kept back. Let him be firm and correct, and there will be good fortune. If trust be not reposed in him, let him maintain a large and generous mind, and there will be no error.

Line Text (Translation)

First Six: Attacking the enemy and defeating them; divination yields an auspicious sign. The victorious army does not take captives or plunder goods; there will be no disaster. The Xiang Commentary (The Image) says: 'Attacking the enemy and defeating them' is because the general is able to follow the correct path, thereby achieving victory. Calmly deploying troops to defeat the enemy without disaster indicates that the general can adapt to circumstances and make independent decisions.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Fair. For those who obtain this line, sorrow and joy are half and half; stillness brings good fortune, while action brings misfortune. It is not advisable for officials to advance, and they must guard against rumors.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Wait patiently; there is no need to rush forward.
  • Wealth 财运: Wait a little while, and great profits can be obtained.
  • Household 家宅: An auspicious house suitable for living; marriage will be completed slowly.
  • Health 身体: Relax the mind and relieve anxiety.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Currently, good fortune is just starting to arrive. Although there is no disaster or blame, it has not yet reached its peak; it is best to be patient and wait. Auspicious.
  • Warfare 战征: When marching for the first time, the minds of the multitude are not yet settled; it is best to treat them with leniency. Auspicious.
  • Business 营商: The goods have just arrived, and market relations are not yet established. It is best to allow some time—four days at the earliest, or four months at the latest. By the time of the fourth line, which says 'all accord,' the goods can sell briskly and surely yield great profits.
  • Fame & Career 功名: Fame and success are naturally yours; it is only a matter of sooner or later. Relax and wait.
  • Household 家宅: This house is inherently auspicious, but moving in is not permitted for the time being because the two parties are not yet in harmony; waiting will surely bring success.
  • Marriage 婚姻: Because inquiries are not yet confirmed, delay will lead to success.
  • Lost Items 失物: Will be recovered in the future.
  • Illness 疾病: It is best to recuperate slowly and gently; recovery is possible.
  • Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Shih Ho indicates successful progress (in the condition of things which it supposes). It will be advantageous to use legal constraints.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Shi He (Biting Through). Success. Favorable for legal proceedings. The Image says: The lower trigram is Zhen, representing thunder; the upper trigram is Li, representing lightning. Thunder and lightning uniting is the image of Biting Through. The ancient kings, observing this image, took guidance from the awe-inspiring thunder and the illuminating lightning, resolved to govern with strict clarity, thereby clarifying punishments and refining the laws.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Biting through hard bones, a firm attitude; many difficulties and obstacles, yet actively striving. Misfortune: For those who obtain this hexagram, matters do not go as desired, disputes are inevitable, and all things are obstructed. It is advisable to adhere to routine, not be enticed by gain, so that peace and safety can be preserved.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by the stacking of different trigrams (Zhen below, Li above). Li is a yin trigram; Zhen is a yang trigram. Yin and Yang intersect, biting through hard objects, symbolizing the simultaneous application of benevolence and authority, combining leniency with severity, and tempering hardness with softness. Shi He represents the biting together of the upper and lower jaws, chewing.

Six in the Second Place 二六

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Six RelativesNajiaChin / ProgressSix RelativesNajiaWei Chi / Before Completion
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄Sibling 兄弟Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Response 应
Parent 父母Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄Offspring 子孙Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄
Sibling 兄弟Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Self 世Wealth 妻财Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄Sibling 兄弟Wu Wu 戊午▄▄           ▄▄  Self 世
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄  × →Offspring 子孙Wu Chen 戊辰▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应Parent 父母Wu Yin 戊寅▄▄           ▄▄

Line Text (Original)

The second line, divided, shows its subject with the appearance of advancing, and yet of being sorrowful. If he be firm and correct, there will be good fortune. He will receive this great blessing from his grandmother.

Line Text (Translation)

Second Six: Attacking the enemy and overwhelming them; divination yields an auspicious sign. Great blessing is received due to the protection of the late grandmother. The Xiang Commentary (The Image) says: 'Receiving this great blessing' is because the second six line occupies the middle position of the lower trigram, symbolizing a person who has attained the path of balance and correctness.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Auspicious. For those who obtain this line, their plans will succeed, often receiving help from their mother or gaining wealth from their wife. For officials, those who maintain correctness will advance.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Many obstacles in what is sought; maintaining correctness will surely lead to success.
  • Wealth 财运: Endure the low tide, and blessings will naturally follow.
  • Household 家宅: Relocate to live with the elderly; wait a little for marriage.
  • Health 身体: Listen more to the advice of the elderly.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Currently, fortune is not bad, but what is sought meets many obstacles, inevitably causing anxiety in the heart. If one can maintain correctness without changing, ultimate success and great benefit will surely be achieved.
  • Warfare 战征: The previous attack met with setbacks; advancing again now brings deep anxiety and fear. However, being apprehensive in the face of action will eventually lead to good fortune. The second six corresponds with the fifth six. The fifth six is associated with the Earthly Branch Mao, and corresponds to the constellations Di, Fang, Xin, and Wei. The two main stars of the Di constellation govern the Empress; hence the image of the Royal Mother, praying to her brings blessings.
  • Business 营商: Because the goods previously traded suffered losses, there is inevitable worry now, hence the saying 'progressing, yet sorrowing.' But by maintaining balance, correctness, and self-possession, the fifth line says 'no need to worry about loss or gain; advancing brings good fortune, everything is favorable.' This advises one not to worry, for blessings will come naturally.
  • Fame & Career 功名: Although there is worry now, the fifth line says 'advancing brings celebration,' meaning auspiciousness can be attained after two years.
  • Marriage 婚姻: Auspicious, but it will not be settled immediately; it will take until the third year to succeed. A grandmother will make the decision.
  • Household 家宅: One should relocate to live and eat together with the grandmother. Auspicious.
  • Lost Items 失物: Will be recovered after a long time.
  • Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Wei Ȝî intimates progress and success (in the circumstances which it implies). (We see) a young fox that has nearly crossed (the stream), when its tail gets immersed. There will be no advantage in any way.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Wei Chi (Before Completion). Success. The little fox has almost crossed the river, but gets its tail wet. There is no advantage in any direction. The Image says: The upper trigram of this hexagram is Li, representing fire; the lower trigram is Kan, representing water. Fire is above water; water cannot overcome fire. This is the image of Before Completion. The superior man, observing this image, senses that water and fire are misplaced and cannot overcome each other, and thus with caution distinguishes the nature of things and examines their proper positions.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Cannot assist, wait for the right time to act; grow from small to large, do not advance impetuously. Minor misfortune: For those who obtain this hexagram, their fortune is obstructed, and things do not go as wished. It is advisable to progress from small to large, advance steadily, and patiently break through difficulties, then success will eventually be achieved.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking two different trigrams (Kan below, Li above). Li represents fire, and Kan represents water. Fire is above and water is below. The fire overpowers the water, and the task of putting out the fire is not yet completed, hence it is called Wei Chi (Before Completion). The Book of Changes (I Ching) begins with the two hexagrams Qian and Kun, and ends with Chi Chi (After Completion) and Wei Chi (Before Completion), fully reflecting the philosophy of change and development.

Six in the Third Place 三六

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Six RelativesNajiaChin / ProgressSix RelativesNajiaLü / The Wanderer
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄Sibling 兄弟Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Parent 父母Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄Offspring 子孙Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄
Sibling 兄弟Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Self 世Wealth 妻财Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Response 应
Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄  × →Wealth 妻财Bing Shen 丙申▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄Sibling 兄弟Bing Wu 丙午▄▄           ▄▄
Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应Offspring 子孙Bing Chen 丙辰▄▄           ▄▄  Self 世

Line Text (Original)

The third line, divided, shows its subject trusted by all (around him). All occasion for repentance will disappear.

Line Text (Translation)

Third Six: Millions of hearts beating as one, launching a full-scale attack, with no cause for regret. The Xiang Commentary (The Image) says: 'Trusted by the multitude,' thus the ambition will be realized.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Fair. For those who obtain this line, they will receive help from friends and their plans will go smoothly, but they must guard against unexpected dangers. Officials will have opportunities for promotion.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: The multitude is pleased and compliant, so there is naturally no regret.
  • Wealth 财运: Harmony between both parties; buying and selling are both profitable.
  • Household 家宅: Harmonious atmosphere; mutual understanding between genders.
  • Health 身体: Group exercise; mediation of lawsuits.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Currently, disasters and regrets have departed, and the public is pleased and compliant. Therefore, auspicious.
  • Business 营商: Initially hindered by the crowd and unable to profit, now there is harmony among all, allowing for no blame; buying and selling are both profitable.
  • Warfare 战征: Unity of purpose is a formidable fortress; victory is assured in battle and success in every attack, advancing upward without regret.
  • Fame & Career 功名: Success is achieved through the recommendation of the multitude.
  • Household 家宅: Indicates harmony among family members. Auspicious.
  • Marriage 婚姻: Harmony between the two families. Auspicious.
  • Litigation 讼事: A third party steps in to resolve it, both sides agree, and there is no regret.
  • Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Lü intimates that (in the condition which it denotes) there may be some little attainment and progress. If the stranger or traveller be firm and correct as he ought to be, there will be good fortune.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Lü Hexagram. Small success. Divining on traveling is auspicious. The Image says: The upper trigram of this hexagram is Li, representing fire; the lower trigram is Gen, representing mountain. Fire on the mountain, illuminating the hidden depths: this is the image of the Wanderer. The superior man, in accordance with this, is clear and cautious in administering justice and executing penalties, neither daring to abuse punishments nor delaying the cases.

Shao Yong's Commentary

The journey is destitute, drifting and unstable; small hopes can be achieved, but grand ambitions are hard to realize. Inauspicious: For those who obtain this hexagram, matters undergo many changes, as if being in a foreign land. Small matters can succeed, but great matters are hard to accomplish; it is advisable to adhere strictly to routine.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking two different trigrams (Gen below, Li above). This hexagram is the opposite of the Feng hexagram (Abundance), serving as its inversed hexagram. Fire burns on the mountain, burning without stopping, the flames constantly spreading forward, like a traveler on the road, hurrying on their journey. Hence it is named Lü (The Wanderer).

Nine in the Fourth Place 四九

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Six RelativesNajiaChin / ProgressSix RelativesNajiaPo / Splitting Apart
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄Wealth 妻财Bing Yin 丙寅▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Parent 父母Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄Offspring 子孙Bing Zi 丙子▄▄           ▄▄  Self 世
Sibling 兄弟Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Self 世 ○ →Parent 父母Bing Xu 丙戌▄▄           ▄▄
Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应
Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄

Line Text (Original)

The fourth line, undivided, shows its subject with the appearance of advancing, but like a marmot. However firm and correct he may be, the position is one of peril.

Line Text (Translation)

Nine Four: Attacking the enemy while being as cowardly as a rat; divination yields an inauspicious sign. The Xiang Commentary (The Image) says: 'Attacking the enemy while being as cowardly as a rat; divination yields an inauspicious sign' because the nine four line is yang occupying a yin position, representing a person in an unfavorable position.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Inauspicious. For those who obtain this line, their fortune is poor, or they may face disputes and lawsuits. Officials should not attempt to advance, as there are obstacles; they must maintain correctness.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: It is best to maintain correctness; playing tricks will surely bring misfortune.
  • Wealth 财运: Greed for wealth leads to failure; quit while you are ahead.
  • Household 家宅: Excessive losses and expenses; improper marriage.
  • Health 身体: Scabies or hematemesis, both are critical.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Fortune is tricky; one should deal with it in an open and upright manner. If one remains double-minded, vacillating, and prone to deceit, misfortune is certain.
  • Warfare 战征: The Tuan Commentary on Chin says: 'In the course of a single day he is received three times' (or some say 'received' means 'victory', meaning three victories in one day). If one is both suspicious and greedy, like a rat hiding by day and active by night, it is dangerous.
  • Fame & Career 功名: The line mentions 'the large rat,' which refers to having five poor skills but mastering none; thus, one is bound to be frustrated and unable to fulfill one's ambitions.
  • Business 营商: The nature of a rat is greed, and greed always leads to failure. Guard against associates whose greed for wealth causes ruin.
  • Household 家宅: Rats are burrowing pests good at stealing. A house with many rats indicates losses and drain. Unfavorable.
  • Illness 疾病: The Book of Odes says 'mournful thoughts like weeping blood,' possibly indicating hematemesis; it also mentions 'rat-like worry leading to itching,' possibly indicating scabies. Both are critical.
  • Litigation 讼事: Vacillating, taking one step back and one step forward, unable to reach a decision for the time being.
  • Travelers 行人: Hiding by day and travelling by night; there must be some trouble, and they will not return for now.
  • Lost Items 失物: Already inside a rat hole; cannot be recovered.
  • Marriage 婚姻: 'Rat' implies petty theft; the marriage is improper.
  • Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Po indicates that (in the state which it symbolises) it will not be advantageous to make a movement in any direction whatever.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Po Hexagram. It is not favorable to have any destination. The Image says: The upper trigram of this hexagram is Gen as Mountain, and the lower trigram is Kun as Earth. The mountain lies on the earth, eroded by wind and rain; this is the image of Splitting Apart (Po). The superior man observes this image, takes warning from the peeling of mountains and the collapse of cliffs, thereby generously winning the hearts of the people and enabling them to live and work in peace.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Erosion and decay, anxiety over disaster; difficult to advance and succeed, stop in accordance with the times. Ominous: For those who obtain this hexagram, fortune is unfavorable, losses are many, and progress is blocked. It is advisable to stop in accordance with the times, keep to one's place, and guard oneself.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking two different trigrams (Kun below, Gen above). Five Yin are below and one Yang is on top, indicating Yin is prosperous while Yang is isolated; the high mountain is attached to the earth. Both are images of peeling away, hence it is the 'Po Hexagram'. In this hexagram, Yin is strong and Yang is weak, symbolizing that petty people are in power, superior men are in distress, and careers are ruined.

Six in the Fifth Place 五六

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Six RelativesNajiaChin / ProgressSix RelativesNajiaP'i / Standstill [Stagnation]
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄Parent 父母Ren Xu 壬戌▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Response 应
Parent 父母Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄  × →Sibling 兄弟Ren Shen 壬申▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Sibling 兄弟Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Self 世Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ren Wu 壬午▄▄▄▄▄▄▄
Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄  Self 世
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄
Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄

Line Text (Original)

The fifth line, divided, shows how all occasion for repentance disappears (from its subject). (But) let him not concern himself about whether he shall fail or succeed. To advance will be fortunate, and in every way advantageous.

Line Text (Translation)

Fifth Six: No cause for regret. Do not be discouraged by defeat. As long as persistent efforts are made, defeat will eventually be turned into victory. Everything is favorable. The Xiang Commentary (The Image) says: 'Do not be discouraged by setbacks'; forge ahead courageously, and celebration will surely descend.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Auspicious. For those who obtain this line, good fortune has arrived, and their plans will yield profit. Officials will have the joy of promotion.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Disasters depart and blessings arrive; obtained unexpectedly.
  • Wealth 财运: Previous minor losses will now lead to great gains.
  • Household 家宅: The fortune of the house is turning for the better; marriage is auspicious.
  • Health 身体: No longer of major concern.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Currently experiencing peak fortune. Disasters depart and blessings arrive; only gains and no losses. Extremely auspicious.
  • Warfare 战征: Turning defeat into victory relies on this single battle; press forward courageously, and success will be immediate.
  • Business 营商: Previous minor losses will now lead to great gains. Auspicious.
  • Fame & Career 功名: No need to pursue fame anxiously; it can be obtained unexpectedly. Auspicious.
  • Household 家宅: The sun rises in the east, and the Li trigram is positioned in the south; this house must face southeast. Previously there were minor disasters and regrets, but now the fortune of the house has turned. Auspicious, with nothing unfavorable.
  • Marriage 婚姻: Treating nine five as the groom's family and six two as the bride's family, both lines are auspicious. Highly beneficial.
  • Litigation 讼事: Saying 'regret vanishes' means disasters have already departed; dropping the lawsuit is auspicious.
  • Lost Items 失物: Go search for it and it will surely be found.
  • Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

In Phî there is the want of good understanding between the (different classes of) men, and its indication is unfavourable to the firm and correct course of the superior man. We see in it the great gone and the little come.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Hexagram Pi. Obstructed by petty men, this is an unfavorable divination for the superior man, and undertakings will turn from prosperity to decline. The Image says: Heaven and Earth do not interact, and all things are choked and cannot grow freely; this is the image of the Pi hexagram. The superior man, observing this image, when national politics are obstructed, should contemplate living in seclusion without taking office, practicing thrift to avoid disaster, and not taking pride in wealth and salary.

Shao Yong's Commentary

The great departs and the small arrives, closed and obstructed; when obstruction reaches its extreme, peace arrives; cultivate virtue to avoid disaster. Inauspicious: For those who obtain this hexagram, it is an image of all things being closed and obstructed, upper and lower levels not in harmony, everything going against one's wishes. In all matters, one should endure and wait for the fortune to turn for the better before taking action.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking two different trigrams (Kun below, Qian above). Its structure is opposite to that of the Tai hexagram. The Yang energy rises while the Yin energy descends; Heaven and Earth do not interact, and all things are blocked. They are 'inverse hexagrams' (Zong Gua) to each other, indicating that extreme peace leads to obstruction, and extreme obstruction leads to peace, serving as cause and effect for each other.

Nine at the Top 上九

Primary & Changing Hexagram

Six RelativesNajiaChin / ProgressSix RelativesNajiaYü / Enthusiasm
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Ji Si 己巳▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  ○ →Wealth 妻财Geng Xu 庚戌▄▄           ▄▄
Parent 父母Ji Wei 己未▄▄           ▄▄Officer/Ghost 官鬼Geng Shen 庚申▄▄           ▄▄
Sibling 兄弟Ji You 己酉▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Self 世Offspring 子孙Geng Wu 庚午▄▄▄▄▄▄▄  Response 应
Wealth 妻财Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄Sibling 兄弟Yi Mao 乙卯▄▄           ▄▄
Officer/Ghost 官鬼Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄Offspring 子孙Yi Si 乙巳▄▄           ▄▄
Parent 父母Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Response 应Wealth 妻财Yi Wei 乙未▄▄           ▄▄  Self 世

Line Text (Original)

The topmost line, undivided, shows one advancing his horns. But he only uses them to punish the (rebellious people of his own) city. The position is perilous, but there will be good fortune. (Yet) however firm and correct he may be, there will be occasion for regret.

Line Text (Translation)

Top Nine: When attacking the enemy, one must weigh the strength of both sides; attacking the enemy's cities may be considered. However, the outcome is unpredictable: it may be dangerous, auspicious, free from disaster, or realizing an inauspicious sign. The Xiang Commentary (The Image) says: 'Considering attacking the enemy's cities' indicates that the royal way has not been widely implemented, leading to rebellion in subordinate towns.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Fair. For those who obtain this line, there is the joy of renovating a house; for those who behave badly, there is the worry of disputes and lawsuits. Officials will have the honor of a fief.

Fu Peirong's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Good fortune is nearing its end; guard against accidents or incidents.
  • Wealth 财运: Disputes within the industry; fortunately, there will be no blame.
  • Household 家宅: Unrest in the neighborhood; starting with disputes and ending in harmony.
  • Health 身体: Take care of the head; ending disputes is auspicious.

Takashima Donsho's Commentary

  • Fortune 时运: Currently, good fortune is nearing its end; guard against incidents, but there is no great harm.
  • Warfare 战征: One should only wage local campaigns domestically, and not launch distant expeditions overseas. Dangerous, but ultimately auspicious.
  • Business 营商: Guard against disputes within the industry. For matters, it is dangerous; for goods, it is profitable; for relationships, it is cause for regret. Fortunately, there is no blame.
  • Fame & Career 功名: 'Chin means to advance.' Horns are on the head, representing the image of being selected first. After achieving fame and success, guard against military conscription. Auspicious.
  • Household 家宅: The residents will have disputes within the local community, causing inevitable unrest, but there is no great blame.
  • Marriage 婚姻: The top line corresponds with the third line; the top and third represent the two families of the groom and bride. At first there is disturbance, but in the end harmony is attained, hence 'regret vanishes,' same as the third line.
  • Litigation 讼事: The poem 'Que Jiao' (Sparrow's Horns) criticizes lawsuits. Dropping the lawsuit is auspicious.
  • Pregnancy 六甲: Giving birth to a daughter.

Changing Hexagram (Original)

Yü indicates that, (in the state which it implies), feudal princes may be set up, and the hosts put in motion, with advantage.

Changing Hexagram (Translation)

Yü (Enthusiasm). Favorable for establishing feudal lords and mobilizing armies. The Image says: The upper trigram is Zhen (Thunder) representing thunder, and the lower trigram is Kun (Earth) representing the earth. Spring thunder rumbles and the earth shakes, stimulating and bringing forth all things; this is the image of the Yü hexagram. Observing this, the ancient kings took inspiration from the thunder that fills the earth to create music, praising virtue, presenting it magnificently to the Supreme Lord (Shangdi) and extending the honor to their ancestors.

Shao Yong's Commentary

Thunder emerges from the earth; pleasing, obedient, and joyful. In times of peace and happiness, one must guard against troubles and adversity. Auspicious: Those who obtain this hexagram accord with heaven and adapt to the times. Everything goes auspiciously, and one can receive assistance from elders. However, one must guard against sexual temptations and must not indulge in the world of sensual pleasures.

Traditional Interpretation

This hexagram is formed by stacking two different trigrams (Kun below, Zhen above). Kun represents Earth and compliance; Zhen represents Thunder and movement. Thunder emerges according to the season, signifying the return of spring to the earth. Acting in compliance is the source of harmony and joy. This hexagram and the Qian (Modesty) hexagram are reverse hexagrams (zong gua) to each other, interacting with one another.


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.

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