8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)

Trigrams

Above

☵ Kǎn (Water)

Below

☷ Kūn (Earth)

Symbolic Meaning

比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.

Judgment

Original Chinese:
"比，吉。原筮，元永贞，无咎。不宁方来，后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)

"Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune."

This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.

Image

Original Chinese:
"水上有地，比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)

"There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends."

The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.

Line 1

Original Chinese:
"有孚比之，无咎。有孚盈缶，终来有它，吉。"
(Yǒu fú bǐ zhī, wú jiù. Yǒu fú yíng fǒu, zhōng lái yǒu tā, jí.)

"Sincerity in holding together brings no blame. Sincerity fills the empty vessel. Good fortune follows."

This line emphasizes the importance of sincerity in relationships. When one approaches others with sincerity, there is no blame. The empty vessel being filled represents the potential for success when trust is established.

Line 2

Original Chinese:
"比之自内，贞吉。"
(Bǐ zhī zì nèi, zhēn jí.)

"Holding together with those within brings good fortune."

This line advises strengthening relationships with those closest to you, whether family, friends, or colleagues. Unity within your inner circle brings security and good fortune.

Line 3

Original Chinese:
"比之匪人。"
(Bǐ zhī fěi rén.)

"Holding together with the wrong people."

This line warns against uniting with people who are dishonest or untrustworthy. Associating with the wrong people can lead to trouble. Choose your allies wisely.

Line 4

Original Chinese:
"外比之，贞吉。"
(Wài bǐ zhī, zhēn jí.)

"Holding together with those outside. Perseverance brings good fortune."

This line encourages forming alliances outside of your usual circle. Expanding your network and collaborating with others who may be outside your immediate group can lead to success.

Line 5

Original Chinese:
"显比，王用三驱，失前禽，邑人不诫，吉。"
(Xiǎn bǐ, wáng yòng sān qū, shī qián qín, yì rén bù jiè, jí.)

"The leader holds together openly. The king uses three hunts, but loses the game. The people of the city do not reproach him. Good fortune."

This line speaks of a leader who holds the group together openly and fairly. Even if some opportunities are lost, the people do not criticize, as they trust the leader’s integrity. In the end, good fortune follows from unity and trust.

Line 6

Original Chinese:
"比之无首，凶。"
(Bǐ zhī wú shǒu, xiōng.)

"Holding together without a leader brings misfortune."

This line warns that a group without a clear leader or direction is bound for failure. Strong leadership is essential for unity and success. Without it, the group will face misfortune.