Hexagram 6, Line 2

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line describes a situation where you find yourself in a conflict you are destined to lose. The "Nine in the second place" is a strong, yang line, indicating an inner drive to fight. However, it is in a subordinate position, facing a much stronger and more established opponent (represented by the corresponding fifth line). The commentary is explicit: to challenge a superior from this position is to court disaster. The image of being in the middle of the lower trigram, Kǎn (The Abysmal, Danger), reinforces the peril of the situation. Therefore, the only wise course of action is a strategic retreat. The advice is to abandon the fight ("cannot win the conflict") and withdraw to safety ("returns and lies low"). This is not an act of cowardice but of profound wisdom and responsibility. The mention of protecting "three hundred households" signifies that by retreating, you not only save yourself but also safeguard those who depend on you—your family, your team, your community—from the destructive fallout of a losing battle. By choosing preservation over pride, you ensure there is "no misfortune."

Guidance for Action

Acknowledge that you are in an unwinnable situation. Your opponent has a decisive advantage in power, position, or resources. Do not allow ego, anger, or a desire for justice to push you into a direct confrontation. The wisest and most courageous action now is to withdraw. Let go of the need to be right or to win this particular battle. Retreat, lie low, and conserve your energy and resources. Focus on protecting what is truly important—your well-being and the security of those in your care. This strategic retreat will prevent further damage and allow you to wait for a more opportune moment to act in the future. Avoid lawsuits, formal complaints, or any direct challenge to authority at this time.

For Love & Relationships

In your relationship, you are engaged in a conflict of wills or a recurring argument that you simply cannot win. Your partner may be more stubborn, hold a stronger position in the dynamic, or the issue itself may be unresolvable in your favor right now. Continuing to push your point will only cause greater damage and emotional distress. The best course of action is to disengage from the fight. Drop the subject, give your partner space, and retreat from the emotional battlefield. This is not about surrendering your self-worth, but about preserving the peace and the foundation of the relationship itself—your "village." By backing down, you protect the shared life you have built from being torn apart by contention.

For Career & Business

You are facing a conflict at work, likely with a superior, a powerful department, or a competitor with a significant market advantage. Despite your strong case or work ethic, the power dynamics are stacked against you. To challenge this authority directly—by filing a grievance, escalating a dispute, or engaging in a political battle—would be career-limiting, if not catastrophic. The guidance is to strategically withdraw. Drop the issue, pull back your proposal, and avoid confrontation. Focus on your own duties and protect your team and projects ("your 300 households") from the negative fallout. Bide your time. By lying low and demonstrating prudence, you preserve your position and reputation for a future day when circumstances are more favorable.

For Financial Matters

This line serves as a strong warning against pursuing a financial dispute, investment, or lawsuit where you are the underdog. You may be considering legal action against a large corporation or fighting a financial claim where the other party has far deeper pockets and more power. The I Ching advises that you cannot win this fight. Continuing to pursue it will only lead to mounting legal fees and further losses, draining the very resources you seek to protect. The wisest move is to cut your losses and withdraw. Settle if you can, or simply walk away. By doing so, you protect your remaining assets (your "village of 300 households") from being consumed in a fruitless and costly battle. Avoid high-risk ventures where you are competing against established giants.