Hexagram 6
Conflict (Arguing)
讼 (Sòng)
Heaven over Water
Hexagram 6 shows Heaven above and Water below, moving in opposite directions. Heaven moves upward, while water flows downward. This opposition creates tension and symbolizes conflict. An inner sincerity and strength (Heaven) is met with external danger and opposition (Water).
Key Concepts
The Judgment
This hexagram warns that while you may be in the right, pursuing a conflict to the bitter end will lead to disaster. The wise course of action is to stop halfway, seek compromise, and find an impartial mediator or wise advisor (the "great man") to help resolve the dispute. Pushing forward aggressively, even if you are right, will not be successful.
The Image
Conflict arises from opposing movements. The superior person understands this and takes great care at the beginning of any project or relationship to ensure all parties are aligned and potential sources of conflict are addressed early. By creating clarity and harmony from the start, they prevent disputes from ever taking root.
Interpretation & Guidance
Receiving Hexagram 6 is a clear signal that you are in or heading toward a conflict. This could be a legal dispute, a business disagreement, or a personal argument. The I Ching's advice is unequivocal: do not escalate. Even if you are convinced you will win, the cost of "winning" will be too high.
Your best strategy is to seek de-escalation. Be cautious, be willing to compromise, and find a neutral third party to help arbitrate. This is not a time for bold, aggressive moves ("crossing the great water"). It is a time for strategic retreat and careful negotiation. Focus on preventing the conflict from consuming you.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Six at the Beginning (初六)
Bottom line - Yin
"If the matter is not perpetuated, there is a little gossip. In the end, good fortune comes."
The conflict is minor and just beginning. If you let it go immediately and do not engage, you may endure some minor criticism, but ultimately you will have a good outcome. Do not fan the flames of a small fire.
Nine in the Second Place (九二)
Second line - Yang
"One cannot engage in conflict; one returns home and lies low. The people of his town, three hundred households, remain free of blame."
You are at a disadvantage and cannot win the conflict. The only correct move is to retreat, go home, and stay out of sight. By avoiding the fight, you not only save yourself but also protect your community or those associated with you from getting drawn into the trouble.
Six in the Third Place (六三)
Third line - Yin
"To nourish oneself on ancient virtue induces perseverance. Danger. In the end, good fortune comes. If by chance you are in the service of a king, seek no merit."
You are tempted to seek something you haven't earned, which could lead to conflict. The advice is to rely on your own inner resources and past accomplishments ("ancient virtue"). Stay in your place, be content, and do your work without seeking recognition. This path is dangerous but ultimately leads to good fortune.
Nine in the Fourth Place (九四)
Fourth line - Yang
"One cannot engage in conflict. One turns back and submits to fate, changes one's attitude, and finds peace in perseverance. Good fortune."
You realize you cannot win. The only path to a good outcome is to completely turn back from the conflict. This requires a fundamental change in mindset, accepting the situation and finding peace in doing what is right. This retreat and change of heart bring good fortune.
Nine in the Fifth Place (九五)
Fifth line - Yang
"To contend before him brings supreme good fortune."
This line represents the arrival of the "great man"—a fair and powerful arbitrator. If you bring your case before this just judge, you will receive a fair hearing and the conflict will be resolved perfectly. This is the ideal resolution to a dispute.
Nine at the Top (上九)
Top line - Yang
"Even if by chance one is awarded a leather belt, by the end of a morning it will have been snatched away three times."
This is a warning to those who "win" a conflict through aggression. Any victory will be hollow and short-lived. What is gained through fighting will be quickly lost, and the struggle will be endless. This path leads only to exhaustion and loss.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
In relationships, Hexagram 6 points to arguments and power struggles. You may feel you are right, but trying to "win" the argument will damage the relationship itself. The advice is to stop fighting, listen to your partner's perspective, and perhaps seek counseling (a "great man") to mediate. Prioritize harmony over being right.
Career & Business (事业)
This hexagram warns of disputes at work, contract disagreements, or legal challenges. Do not charge ahead. The best strategy is to halt legal proceedings if possible and seek a settlement through negotiation or arbitration. Pushing a case to its final verdict is likely to be a pyrrhic victory, costing more in time and resources than it's worth.
Health & Wellness (健康)
In health, "Conflict" can symbolize an internal battle—the body fighting an illness, or mental stress caused by inner turmoil. The message is to seek peace and reduce stress, as inner conflict can manifest as physical illness. Seek expert help (a doctor is a "great man") and follow a course of treatment designed to restore harmony to your system.
Financial Matters (财运)
Financially, this indicates disputes over money, inheritances, or contracts. Avoid lawsuits. The legal fees and stress will likely outweigh any potential gains. It is far better to compromise and accept a smaller settlement than to engage in a protracted and costly battle.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
This hexagram teaches a difficult but crucial lesson: the wisdom of non-contention. Personal growth comes from learning when to let go of the need to be right. It's about developing the inner strength to walk away from a fight, to prioritize peace over ego, and to be clever enough to solve problems before they become battles.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
This is a time for caution, retreat, and mediation. Do not initiate any new contentious actions. If you are already in a dispute, halt your advance. The advice is to be the first to offer a compromise. Seek out a wise, impartial person to help guide you and the other party to a peaceful resolution.
