Hexagram 7, Line 6

The Line Text

Interpretation

This top line signifies the successful conclusion of the campaign. The conflict is over, and the objective has been achieved. The "great prince," representing the ultimate legitimate authority, now steps in to formalize the victory. The act of "founding states and establishing families" is a metaphor for creating a new, stable order. It involves bestowing honors, delegating authority, and distributing the spoils of victory to those who have earned them. The victory is not an end in itself but the foundation for a new era of peace and governance. However, the line ends with a critical and solemn warning: "Petty people should not be employed." At the moment of greatest success, opportunists, flatterers, and those of small character (the "petty people" or *xiǎo rén*) will flock to the victor, seeking to gain power and influence they did not earn. To give them positions of responsibility would be to plant the seeds of future corruption, discord, and collapse. True victory is consolidated not just by winning the battle, but by wisely and justly building the peace that follows. This requires rewarding true merit and consciously excluding those whose motives are self-serving, as they will inevitably undermine the new order.

Guidance for Action

You have reached the culmination of a significant effort or conflict. Success is at hand or has just been achieved. Now is the time for consolidation and establishing the future. Your primary task is to be a wise and discerning leader, even if you are only leading yourself. Review the entire process and identify who and what truly contributed to this success. Reward loyalty, skill, and integrity. Be extremely cautious about bringing new people into your inner circle or giving responsibility to those who only appeared once the hard work was done. Your judgment now will determine whether this victory leads to lasting stability or becomes a temporary high followed by decline. Do not compromise your principles for the sake of expediency or to appease those with slick words but no substance.

For Love & Relationships

A period of struggle or uncertainty in your relationship is coming to a successful close. You and your partner have overcome a significant challenge together. Now is the time to build the future—to "found the state" of your shared life. This could mean making long-term commitments, defining your future, or simply establishing a new, more stable and harmonious dynamic. The warning against "petty people" is crucial here. It advises you to protect your relationship from negative external influences—gossiping friends, meddling relatives, or anyone who seeks to create drama or doubt. Internally, it means not allowing "petty" behaviors like jealousy, score-keeping, or ego to corrupt the peace you have just won. Build your future on the foundation of trust and respect that saw you through the difficult times.

For Career & Business

A major project has been successfully completed, a difficult negotiation won, or a significant professional goal achieved. Your authority and reputation are at a high point. The "great prince" (senior management or you as the leader) is now in a position to implement changes, give promotions, and assign new roles. This is a critical moment. You must reward the team members who demonstrated skill, dedication, and loyalty throughout the struggle. Do not be tempted to promote the office politicians or sycophants who were absent during the hard work but are now positioning themselves for reward. Entrusting key responsibilities to such "petty people" will demotivate your true talent and sow the seeds of future failure. Build your team and department on a foundation of proven merit to ensure long-term success.

For Financial Matters

You have achieved a significant financial victory, perhaps through a successful investment, the sale of a business, or coming into an inheritance. The struggle to acquire this wealth is over; now, the work of managing it begins. "Founding states and establishing families" means creating a solid financial structure for the future—setting up trusts, creating a diverse investment portfolio, and securing your family's future. The warning is stark and clear: be extremely wary of "petty people." This refers to unscrupulous financial advisors, opportunistic relatives, and get-rich-quick schemers who will suddenly appear. Do your due diligence. Entrust your resources only to those with proven track records and unimpeachable integrity. A foolish decision now could squander the security you have just gained.