I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 6 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5 to Hexagram 23
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 6.2.4.5 -> 23
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.
Changing to:
23. Splitting Apart (剝 Bō)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 23
Hexagram 剝 (Bō) symbolizes splitting apart or decay. This hexagram represents a time when things are falling apart or being stripped away. It advises patience and waiting for better times rather than trying to resist the natural cycle of decline.
Hexagram 23 Judgment
"剝，不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Splitting apart. It is not favorable to undertake anything.”
This hexagram warns against taking action during a time of decline or decay. It advises patience and acceptance of the situation. Resistance will not bring success, and it is better to wait for conditions to improve.
Hexagram 23 Image
"山附於地，剝。上以厚下，安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
“The mountain rests on the earth: The image of Splitting Apart. The superior person maintains a firm foundation below and keeps peace in their dwelling.”
The image of a mountain resting on the earth suggests stability, but also decay at the edges. The superior person focuses on maintaining stability and peace within their environment, even as the outer world may be falling apart.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team