Hexagram 6

Conflict (Sòng)

Above: Heaven · Below: Water

Winning an argument isn't always winning

Conflict (Sòng)

Hexagram 6 · Conflict (Sòng)

The judgment

You are in the right but feel blocked — stay alert. Stopping halfway brings good fortune; fighting to the very end brings misfortune.

The Image: Heaven and water move in opposite directions: conflict. So the noble person plans carefully at the very start of any undertaking.

Cleverness spreads and customs decay; in time all must return to plainness …

The world grows ever more cunning, but in the end it always comes back to simplicity and honesty.

On trade: the way of business is that agreement brings success and opposition brings failure … hence the saying, "plan carefully at the start."
On marriage: a marriage joins two families in friendship; it is about coming together, not standing against each other.

Disputes may come; stopping halfway is wise

Inner turmoil; ease your mind and rest

Agreement brings success, opposition failure

Divide money clearly; don't damage the bond

Two families joined; seek harmony, not argument

The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.

The six lines

Six at the beginning: Not dragging the matter out. A little gossip, but good fortune in the end.
Nine in the second place: He cannot win the dispute, so he withdraws and slips home. The three hundred households of his town come to no harm.
Six in the third place: Living on old merit. Steadfastness in danger; good fortune in the end. If one serves the king, one seeks no credit.
Nine in the fourth place: He cannot win the dispute; he turns back, accepts his lot and changes course. Staying steady brings good fortune.
Nine in the fifth place: Bringing the dispute to judgment. Supreme good fortune.
Nine at the top: Even if he is given a leather belt of honor, it is taken from him three times before the morning is out.

Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.