Trigrams
☰☵ – Heaven above, Water below
Meaning
Represents dispute, litigation, and the danger of prolonged conflict. Inner sincerity is blocked by outer obstruction. It is wise to settle matters early and find compromise rather than pursuing conflict to its end.
Interpretation
- Avoid dragging conflicts to their conclusion; seek early resolution.
- Consult a wise and impartial mediator when disputes arise.
- Even in the right, excessive contention leads to exhaustion and loss.
Six Yao (Lines) with Classical Quotes
1st Yao (初爻)
不永所事，小有言，终吉。
English: Not pursuing the matter to the end. There are minor disputes, but the outcome is good. Stop the conflict early and avoid escalation.
Luck Level: Good
2nd Yao (二爻)
不克讼，归而逃，其邑人三百户，无眨。
English: Unable to win the dispute, retreating to one's village of three hundred households. No disaster. A strategic retreat is wise; protect what is small and certain.
Luck Level: Neutral
3rd Yao (三爻)
食旧德，贞厉，终吉；或从王事，无成。
English: Living on old merits. Persistence in difficulty, but good fortune in the end. If serving in royal affairs, nothing is accomplished by oneself. Rely on established virtue.
Luck Level: Good
4th Yao (四爻)
不克讼，复即命渝，安贞，吉。
English: Unable to win the dispute, returning to follow one's mandate, yielding and finding peace. Good fortune. Surrender pride and return to what is right.
Luck Level: Good
5th Yao (五爻)
讼，元吉。
English: In the conflict, great good fortune. The just and capable judge finds a perfect resolution. The right person in the right role brings excellent outcomes.
Luck Level: Excellent
6th Yao (上爻)
或锡之盘带，终朝三襲之。
English: Perhaps a leather belt is awarded, but it will be snatched away three times before the day is out. Gains from conflict are unstable and short-lived.
Luck Level: Caution