6. Conflict (訟 Sòng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
Symbolic Meaning
Sòng (Conflict) represents a time of dispute or disagreement. This hexagram signals a moment when conflicts must be addressed. The key to resolution lies in upholding righteousness and avoiding impulsive reactions driven by anger or emotion.
Judgment
Original Chinese:
"有孚，窒惕，中吉，终凶。利见大人，不利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, zhì tì, zhōng jí, zhōng xiōng. Lì jiàn dà rén, bù lì shè dà chuān.)
"Conflict demands sincerity. Be cautious and halt before it escalates. There is success in the middle, but disaster awaits at the end. It is beneficial to consult a wise person, but unfavorable to undertake major ventures, like crossing a great river."
Conflict is best managed through sincerity and careful restraint. Success comes from resolving disputes in the middle stage, before they intensify. While there may be some early success, prolonged conflict leads to harm. Seeking advice from a wise figure is beneficial, but engaging in large-scale endeavors (crossing a great river) is unwise during this time.
Image
Original Chinese:
"天与水违行，訟。君子以作事谋始。"
(Tiān yǔ shuǐ wéi xíng, sòng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zuò shì móu shǐ.)
"Heaven and water move in opposite directions—this is the image of Conflict. The wise person uses this time to plan carefully at the outset of any endeavor."
Heaven and water moving apart symbolize discord and opposition. The wise person uses this time to strategize and avoid rushing into any new ventures, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning in navigating conflict.
Line 1
Original Chinese:
"不永所事，小有言，终吉。"
(Bù yǒng suǒ shì, xiǎo yǒu yán, zhōng jí.)
"Do not keep pushing your case. There may be a minor argument, but it will ultimately end well."
This line advises against prolonging conflict. Small disputes may occur, but it is wise not to press them. Letting go leads to a favorable resolution.
Line 2
Original Chinese:
"不克訟，归而逋。其邑人三百户，无眚。"
(Bù kè sòng, guī ér bù. Qí yì rén sān bǎi hù, wú shěng.)
"You cannot win this conflict. Withdraw and retreat. The people in your community (300 households) will remain unharmed."
Continuing the conflict will not bring success. By retreating, you prevent harm to yourself and your community, ensuring peace and safety for those around you.
Line 3
Original Chinese:
"食旧德，贞厉，终吉。或从王事，无成。"
(Shí jiù dé, zhēn lì, zhōng jí. Huò cóng wáng shì, wú chéng.)
"Relying on past achievements. Perseverance invites danger, but it will ultimately end well. Serving the king brings no reward."
This line warns against relying solely on past accomplishments. While persistence may lead to challenges, staying true to your principles will bring a positive outcome. However, official duties or serving higher powers may not bring any tangible results at this time.
Line 4
Original Chinese:
"或訟之，几，终凶。"
(Huò sòng zhī, jī, zhōng xiōng.)
"Conflict is brought against you. You may approach cautiously, but it will ultimately lead to misfortune."
Conflict initiated by others is difficult to avoid, even with caution. Without proper resolution, it is likely to end poorly.
Line 5
Original Chinese:
"訟元吉。"
(Sòng yuán jí.)
"Resolving the conflict brings great good fortune."
This line shows that resolving disputes through fair and sincere means leads to significant success and prosperity.
Line 6
Original Chinese:
"或锡之鞶带，终朝三褫之。"
(Huò xī zhī pán dài, zhōng zhāo sān chǐ zhī.)
"An honor is bestowed, but it is taken away three times before noon."
This line serves as a warning that rewards or recognition may be fleeting. Temporary honors can quickly vanish, leading to a loss of status or reputation.