I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 6 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 6 to Hexagram 8

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 6.2.4.6 -> 8

Old Yang Young Yang Old Yang Young Yin Old Yang Young Yin

6. Conflict

Yin Yang Yin Yin Yin Yin

8. Holding Together

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

The Judgment reads:
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.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
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.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
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.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"或訟之，几，终凶。"
(Huò sòng zhī, jī, zhōng xiōng.)
English Translation:
“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 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"或锡之鞶带，终朝三褫之。"
(Huò xī zhī pán dài, zhōng zhāo sān chǐ zhī.)
English Translation:
“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:

8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 8

Hexagram 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.

Hexagram 8 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
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.)
English Translation:
“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.

Hexagram 8 Image

The Image reads:
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.)
English Translation:
“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.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team