I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 6 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 2
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 6.2.4.5.6 -> 2
6. Conflict (訟 Sòng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 6
Hexagram 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.
Hexagram 6 Judgment
"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.
Hexagram 6 Image
"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 2 Changing
"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 4 Changing
"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 Changing
"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 Changing
"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.
Changing to:
2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 2
Hexagram 坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.
Hexagram 2 Judgment
"元亨,利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
“The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.”
The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.
Hexagram 2 Image
"地势坤,君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
“The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world.”
The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team