I Ching

Hexagram 6 — The Conflict Song

Hexagram 6, The Conflict — the six lines

Classical meaning

Conflict with sincerity. Obstacles and hesitation. In the middle, good fortune; in the end, misfortune. It is favorable to see the great man. It is not favorable to cross the great river.

訟。有孚。窒惕。中吉。終凶。利見大人。不利涉大川。

Image: Heaven and water recede: the image of conflict. The superior man, when planning affairs, guards against disputes.

It represents disputes, opposition, and the need for just resolution. It requires wisdom to avoid direct confrontation.

The six lines

Line 1. Litigation – Do not persist indefinitely in the process. Minor grievances. Ultimately, auspicious. Do not prolong futile disputes. Let time dissolve minor quarrels, so the outcome will be favorable.
Line 2. Litigation – Cannot win the litigation. Withdraws and abandons his city. Three hundred families remain. Without fault. Know how to yield before total defeat. Withdraw to preserve what is still under your care.
Line 3. Litigation – Sustained by ancient virtues. Righteousness. Dangerous, yet ultimately auspicious. May serve the king, but accomplishes nothing. Remain faithful to the principles that have already proven their worth. The moment does not favor great deeds, only integrity.
Line 4. Litigation – Cannot win the litigation. Returns to leadership. Changes attitude and finds stability. Auspicious. Abandon the dispute and accept the higher guidance. Inner change brings peace and beneficial outcome.
Line 5. Litigation – Supreme auspice. Trust in truth and justice. When the foundation is sound, the outcome is great.
Line 6. Litigation – Grants him a silk belt. In the morning, it is taken from him three times. Favors gained through contention are unstable. Avoid attachment to illusory rewards.
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