I Ching

Hexagram 38 — The Opposition Kui

Hexagram 38, The Opposition — the six lines

Classical meaning

Small things bring good fortune.

睽。小事吉。

Image: Fire above the lake: the image of opposition. Thus the noble maintains clarity of mind even amid divergences.

It represents divergence, difference of viewpoints, and creative contrast.

The six lines

Line 1. The Opposition – Regret disappears. Losing the horse: do not pursue it, it will return on its own. Encountering an unpleasant person: no fault. Do not force nor pursue what withdraws. What is yours will find its way back.
Line 2. The Opposition – Meeting the lord in the alley. No blame. Even in times of conflict, a sincere connection can dissolve differences.
Line 3. The Opposition – One sees the chariot being pulled, the ox struggling to draw it, the man with a marked forehead and nose. At the beginning, it is adverse, but in the end, there is a result. Even in great oppression and suffering, remain steadfast: obstacles can transform into learning.
Line 4. The Opposition – Isolated in divergence, one encounters the great man. Through mutual trust, although there is danger, there will be no fault. When solitude weighs heavily, seek the trust of a person of integrity. Unity dispels risk.
Line 5. The Opposition – Regret disappears. The clan bites the flesh. Advancing brings no guilt. Trust and closeness dissolve conflicts. Proceed without fear of error.
Line 6. The Opposition – Isolated in divergence, one sees a pig covered in mud and a carriage full of ghosts. First, one draws the bow against them, then lowers it. They are not enemies, but companions in union. If, upon proceeding, one encounters rain, it will be auspicious. Do not hasten to judge. What seemed hostile may become an ally, and reconciliation will yield good fruits.
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