Hexagram 32 – Héng (恒)
Symbolism of the Héng Hexagram: Thunder and Wind
The Héng hexagram is composed of two trigrams: Zhèn (震) above and Xùn (巽) below. Zhèn represents thunder, which is a symbol of masculinity, and Xùn represents wind, a symbol of femininity. With Zhèn being strong (yang) above and Xùn being gentle (yin) below, this hexagram embodies a harmonious balance between strength and flexibility. The energy of the hexagram is one of constant, enduring growth, where both forces nurture and support one another. This cyclical, consistent pattern is what we understand as Héng, meaning “permanence” or “constancy.”
Position of the Héng Hexagram
The Héng hexagram follows the Xián (咸) hexagram in the sequence. In the Xù Guà (序卦, Sequence of Hexagrams), it says: “The way of the couple must not be without longevity, thus it is followed by Héng. Héng means enduring and lasting.” The Xián hexagram speaks to the emotional spark between partners, and after this initial connection, the focus shifts to long-term stability and permanence, which is where Héng comes in.
Interpretation of the Héng Hexagram in the “Duàn Yì Tiān Jī” (断易天机)
The hexagram consists of Zhèn (thunder) above and Xùn (wind) below, forming the Zhèn Palace three-time hexagram. The essence of the Héng hexagram is to persist, remain constant, and maintain determination, for it is through consistency that success is achieved.
Interpretation by Song Dynasty Scholar Shao Yong
Shao Yong, a prominent scholar of the Song Dynasty, explained that the essence of Héng is to remain constant, to endure over time. A gentleman should always adhere to the right path, without deviation, and continually strive towards their goals. Those who lack perseverance or are fickle in their intentions will never succeed.
Interpretation by Taiwan’s Classical Scholar Fu Pei-Rong
- Fortune: Keep working diligently and avoid impatience.
- Financial Prosperity: Business ventures should not be changed frequently.
- Family Life: Maintain consistency, ensuring a harmonious and lasting relationship.
- Health: If experiencing shortness of breath and phlegm, continue with traditional remedies.
Traditional Interpretation of the Héng Hexagram
The Héng hexagram is composed of Xùn (wind) below and Zhèn (thunder) above. Zhèn represents masculinity and strength, while Xùn represents femininity and gentleness. The dynamic is one where the strong, active force is on top, while the flexible, yielding force is on the bottom. Together, they create a natural, eternal cycle of mutual support and growth. The hexagram symbolizes continuity and the natural progression of things, and it is thus referred to as “permanence.”
Great Image (Dà Xiàng) Explanation:
Zhèn (thunder) represents movement and external development, while Xùn (wind) represents inwardness and internal growth. The balance between these two forces—one external and one internal—creates a harmonious, unchanging state, symbolizing the nature of a successful and enduring partnership, like that of a married couple. This principle of balance and consistency is what makes the relationship last.
Fortune and Career Insights:
The Héng hexagram is a sign of ongoing success and stability. It suggests that everything will go smoothly if one is persistent and remains true to their path. However, reckless action or impatience may bring disaster. Therefore, the key is consistency, patience, and a steady, well-thought-out approach. Success comes from perseverance, not from rushing or forceful actions.
For one’s career, the Héng hexagram emphasizes the importance of persistence and staying true to your goals. Long-term success is built on consistency. Be cautious about jumping to conclusions, but also be flexible in your approach when necessary. Avoid blindly following others’ paths and focus on creating your own strategy, based on careful analysis.
Business Insights:
When engaging in business, Héng advises bold but cautious action. If you see an opportunity, pursue it, but always keep an eye on market conditions and surrounding circumstances. Be willing to adjust your strategy in response to changes, but never abandon your core values and principles. Stick to what works, avoid unnecessary risks, and be mindful of your limits. Do not be swayed by trends, but focus on making thoughtful decisions.
Name and Reputation:
Success in terms of reputation requires commitment and consistency. Start with a clear purpose and finish what you begin. You must stay grounded and humble, learning from others along the way. Through sustained effort and focus, you will find success in gaining recognition.
Romantic Relationships:
In romantic matters, Héng suggests that the path may not always be smooth, and there will be ups and downs. However, the key is to remain committed and not be swayed by temporary challenges. Communication, understanding, and compromise are essential for a lasting and harmonious relationship. Avoid changing your mind too often, and ensure that both parties remain aligned in their goals.
Decision-Making:
When making decisions, the Héng hexagram advises gradual progress. Avoid setting unrealistically high expectations at the beginning of a venture. While it is important to be persistent, do not give up on your goals, even if you face setbacks. Stay grounded, and make sure that your actions are based on practicality. Avoid being overly ambitious or taking unnecessary risks. Trust that the universe is always in motion, and continually adjust your understanding and approach to new circumstances.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Héng Hexagram
Line Text: Chū liù (初六): Xùn Héng, zhēn xiōng, wú yōu lì.
Interpretation of the Line Text:
Xùn (浚) refers to deep dredging, meaning to dig or clear the riverbed to deepen the flow. In the context of this line, it means to make an intensive effort to pursue something with long-lasting constancy, but such an approach is ultimately dangerous and unwise, with no positive outcome.
This line suggests that if one tries to deeply pursue the path of lasting consistency too forcefully, the result will be adverse and harmful, offering no benefit.
Advice for This Line:
- Trying to go too deep in shallow waters leads to unwise decisions.
- Positioning oneself in a lowly state but aiming for a high position will result in conflict.
- Taking aggressive actions in an unsuitable situation will lead to disaster.
- Seeking too much depth in areas where it is not needed will only worsen the situation.
- Better to retreat and wait for safety.
Transformation of the First Line of the Héng Hexagram
The first line changes to the Dà Zhuàng (大壮) hexagram, Hexagram 34 of the Zhou Yi. This hexagram is formed by the combination of Qián (乾, Heaven) below and Zhèn (震, Thunder) above. Zhèn represents thunder, a symbol of strength and action, while Qián represents Heaven, a force of creativity and authority. This hexagram indicates the eruption of powerful energy, with thunder roaring and the sky resounding, signaling an overwhelming strength and vitality. Dà Zhuàng signifies strength in action, with potential for success through bold and decisive efforts.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Héng Hexagram
Line Text: Jiǔ èr (九二): Huǐ wáng.
Interpretation of the Line Text:
Huǐ wáng (悔亡) means that regret will disappear on its own. If one takes the right course, regret will naturally fade. This line suggests that when one acts with integrity and consistency, any previous doubts or regrets will vanish.
Advice for This Line:
- Stick to neutrality and fairness when making decisions; there’s no need for worry if you do so.
- If you regret something you’ve done, take a break or redirect your attention. Time will help you recover, and the regret will fade.
- Maintaining inner moral integrity and staying true to your path will keep you at ease, naturally bringing success.
- Long-term perseverance in the right direction will lead to the elimination of regrets over time.
Transformation of the Second Line of the Héng Hexagram
The second line changes to the Xiǎo Guò (小过) hexagram, Hexagram 62 of the Zhou Yi. This hexagram is formed by Gèn (艮, Mountain) below and Zhèn (震, Thunder) above. Zhèn, representing thunder, suggests powerful movement, while Gèn represents a mountain, symbolizing a slow, steady pace. The combination here represents overcoming small obstacles with careful and gradual actions. It also reflects the idea that small transgressions may be rectified with care, but overstepping one’s limits can result in misfortune.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Héng Hexagram
Line Text: Jiǔ sān (九三): Bù Héng qí dé, huò chéng zhī xiū, zhēn lì.
Interpretation of the Line Text:
This line warns against inconsistency in moral conduct. Those who cannot maintain steady virtue will often be humiliated. If they refuse to change their ways, they will encounter difficulties. The line speaks of a person, particularly a woman in the context of marriage or romantic relationships, whose aggressive or unstable character leads to challenges and shame.
Advice for This Line:
- Failure to maintain steadfast virtue will bring shame and difficulty.
- Seasonal changes, like frost and flowers, show that things might not always last.
- If you are too fickle in your plans, you risk failing.
- Avoid haste and being overly busy.
- Take time to think things through carefully rather than rushing or acting impulsively.
- If your actions do not align with your values, it will be harder to achieve success.
Transformation of the Third Line of the Héng Hexagram
The third line changes to the Jiě (解) hexagram, Hexagram 40 of the I Ching. This hexagram is formed by the combination of Kǎn (坎, Water) below and Zhèn (震, Thunder) above. Kǎn symbolizes danger and obstacles, while Zhèn represents movement and action. This combination signifies that difficulties and blockages are being removed, and that after a period of stagnation (symbolized by winter), new life (spring) will begin, leading to an overall resolution of problems. It suggests a moment of release and renewal, clearing away previous hardships.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Héng Hexagram
Line Text: Jiǔ sì (九四): Tián wú qín.
Interpretation of the Line Text:
The phrase Tián wú qín (田无禽) literally means “No game in the field,” referring to a hunting trip where no animals are caught. In the context of this line, it suggests a lack of success in one’s endeavors. In terms of marriage, it indicates disharmony. In the Héng hexagram, the upper trigram represents the male, and this line, located in the upper trigram, indicates that the man’s efforts to provide for the family are unsuccessful. Historically, men were expected to hunt to feed their families, so if a man returns from the hunt empty-handed, it symbolizes his inability to fulfill his responsibilities. This could reflect a lack of talent, opportunities, or the misfortune of being unable to provide for his family, which might lead to instability in the marital relationship.
Advice for This Line:
- Trying to succeed in shallow efforts will yield no results.
- Attempting to do something beyond one’s capability will only lead to frustration.
- Old methods may need reevaluation and adjustment; there’s no point in stubbornly clinging to them.
- Persistence in effort without proper results will only drain energy, with no reward.
- Focusing on short-term gains rather than long-term stability could lead to failure.
Transformation of the Fourth Line of the Héng Hexagram
The fourth line changes to the Shēng (升) hexagram, Hexagram 46 of the Zhou Yi. This hexagram is formed by the combination of Xùn (巽, Wind) below and Kūn (坤, Earth) above. Xùn represents wind, symbolizing movement, and Kūn represents Earth, symbolizing support and growth. The combination reflects the process of steady growth, as Earth nurtures plants and trees, allowing them to rise gradually and achieve success. This symbolizes a gradual rise in one’s career and potential for future success.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Héng Hexagram
Line Text: Liù wǔ (六五): Héng qí dé, zhēn; fùrén jí, fūzǐ xiōng.
Interpretation of the Line Text:
This line speaks to the virtues of maintaining consistency in one’s moral integrity. For women, maintaining steadfastness and virtue brings good fortune, while for men, it can lead to misfortune if they fail to adhere to similar principles.
In the context of relationships, the line emphasizes that women should be virtuous and devoted, while men should avoid being overly rigid or domineering, as this could cause problems in the relationship.
Advice for This Line:
- Women should remain virtuous and devoted, as this will bring good fortune.
- Men should avoid being too rigid or inflexible, as this could lead to negative outcomes.
- To maintain harmony in relationships, balance and mutual respect are key.
- In business, consistency and focus will bring success, while rash or sudden changes will result in failure.
- Patience and virtue will guide you toward success.
Transformation of the Fifth Line of the Héng Hexagram
The fifth line changes to the Dà Guò (大过) hexagram, Hexagram 28 of the Zhou Yi. This hexagram is formed by the combination of Duì (兑, Lake) below and Xùn (巽, Wind) above. Duì, symbolizing pleasure and satisfaction, combined with Xùn, representing growth, creates a situation where too much activity can cause an overflow or excess. This hexagram advises caution against going too far or overextending oneself. It reflects the need for balance and the dangers of excessive behavior.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Héng Hexagram
Line Text: Shàng liù (上六): Zhèn Héng, xiōng.
Interpretation of the Line Text:
The phrase Zhèn Héng (振恒) refers to the idea of instability or wavering, where one is unable to maintain consistency or steadfastness. This line suggests that acting impulsively and changing one’s direction too frequently will lead to misfortune. A person must remain focused, steady, and resolute if they are to achieve lasting success. Those who are restless, change their course without reason, or cannot maintain their focus will encounter difficulties.
Advice for This Line:
- Instability in behavior will lead to failure.
- Resisting the temptation to act impulsively or change directions frequently is crucial to achieving long-term goals.
- Patience and perseverance are necessary to see things through.
- Beware of restlessness and jumping from one idea to another without a clear plan.
- Remain grounded and don’t let momentary distractions derail your efforts.
Transformation of the Sixth Line of the Héng Hexagram
The sixth line changes to the Dǐng (鼎) hexagram, Hexagram 50 of the Zhou Yi. This hexagram is formed by the combination of Lí (离, Fire) below and Xùn (巽, Wind) above. Lí, symbolizing fire, represents transformation and illumination, while Xùn, representing wind, symbolizes movement. Dǐng refers to a tripod cauldron, symbolizing stability, strength, and the proper handling of matters. This hexagram suggests that after a period of uncertainty or hardship, a solid and reliable foundation is established, enabling significant transformation and progress.