The Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram 12: “否卦” (Pǐ Guà)
From the structure of the hexagram, Pǐ Guà (否卦) represents a situation where Qián (乾, Heaven) is placed above, and Kūn (坤, Earth) is placed below. Heaven is associated with the active, yang energy, and Earth with the passive, yin energy. The positions are fixed, meaning that they do not interact with each other, and this results in a situation of stagnation and obstruction. The essence of Pǐ Guà is blockage, stagnation, and decline. It represents a state of being closed off, where progress is blocked, and things do not flow smoothly.
Pǐ Guà signifies that, in this situation, the gentleman (the virtuous and noble person) is at risk of being marginalized, while the petty person gains power and influence. The petty person obstructs the path of the gentleman, as Kūn (Earth) represents internal affairs, and Qián (Heaven) represents external affairs. In this scenario, the petty person controls internal matters while the noble person is pushed to the periphery, causing an imbalance in the system.
Pǐ Guà follows Tài Guà (泰卦), and the “Xuè Guà Zhuàn” (序卦传) explains it as: “Things cannot remain open forever; hence, they are subject to blockage.” Permanent flow is impossible, and there will inevitably be obstacles. Therefore, after the smoothness of Tài Guà, Pǐ Guà arrives to indicate a time of blockage.
Xiàng (象) says: “天地不交, 否” (“Heaven and Earth do not interact, leading to stagnation”). The gentleman must rely on virtue and frugality to avoid dangers, and cannot seek honors through riches or positions.
The hexagram’s image shows that when Heaven is above and Earth is below, the natural forces cannot merge. This indicates that the world is in a state of blockage. The gentleman must remain humble, practicing the virtue of frugality to weather the storm and avoid seeking high positions and wealth.
Pǐ Guà symbolizes a period of stagnation and difficulty, where nothing seems to move forward, and external opportunities are unavailable. The advice is to maintain virtue and humility, avoiding rash or ambitious pursuits.
Philosophical Insights from Pǐ Guà:
- Stagnation and Blockage: In a time of Pǐ Guà, external progress is blocked, and the natural flow of things is disrupted. The gentleman must endure this difficult period and maintain a humble and patient attitude.
- The Cycle of Change: After the extreme growth symbolized by Tài Guà, there is an inevitable decline, and Pǐ Guà represents this time of difficulty and stagnation. However, this blockage will eventually turn into a period of recovery, as “Pǐ Guà” also contains the seed for change.
- Virtue and Frugality: The gentleman should not seek fame or fortune during times of stagnation, as this will only lead to failure. Instead, focusing on virtue and humility will allow one to avoid harm and weather the storm.
Interpretation of Pǐ Guà from Classical Scholars
- Shao Yong, a renowned scholar of the Northern Song Dynasty, explained Pǐ Guà as a situation where big things retreat and small things come, symbolizing a period of stagnation. However, when the blockage reaches its peak, prosperity will eventually return. It is important to remain patient and endure through the difficulties.
- Fu Peirong, a well-known scholar from Taiwan, offered the following interpretation:
- Fortune: Everything is currently unfavorable. Do not take rash actions.
- Wealth: It is a good time to buy and hold, with profits likely to follow in the future.
- Home: Practicing thrift can prevent misfortune. Separation or divorce may be indicated.
- Health: Energy and circulation may be blocked, so it is important to regulate diet and maintain balance.
Traditional Interpretation of Pǐ Guà
This hexagram is a contrasting hexagram (with Kūn (Earth) below and Qián (Heaven) above), unlike Tài Guà, where the energies were aligned. Here, the yang energy rises and the yin energy falls, meaning that the forces of Heaven and Earth are unable to meet, causing stagnation and disruption. The “Xiàng” interpretation suggests that Pǐ Guà is a time when Heaven and Earth do not merge, leading to an obstruction in progress.
The dà xiàng (大象), or major symbolism, suggests: “Heaven rises, Earth falls, and the forces cannot unite, leading to stagnation.” This period is one where all things are out of alignment and nothing progresses as it should. The “Yi Jing” advises enduring this situation with patience and humility until the forces align once again.
Fortune and Career Insights from Pǐ Guà:
- Career: You may be in a difficult phase of decline, where external factors (like interference from others) prevent success. It is a time for patience and resilience, sticking to the right path and waiting for the right moment. Align with like-minded people, and success will eventually come.
- Business: You may be facing fierce competition and a challenging environment, which leads to setbacks. It is important to stay cautious, maintain your position, and wait for favorable conditions to turn the tide in your favor.
- Fame: Your aspirations may not yet be fully realized, but perseverance and external help can lead to eventual success.
- Marriage and Relationships: Difficult situations may arise, but if both parties remain confident and patient, the relationship can eventually find harmony.
- Decision Making: Though intelligent and capable, you may face obstacles due to interpersonal issues or opposition. It is crucial to remain focused, overcome difficulties, and trust that persistence will eventually lead to success.
Pǐ Guà represents a time of blockage, stagnation, and challenges in all aspects of life. It teaches the importance of patience, humility, and perseverance during difficult periods. While everything may seem to be at a standstill, the eventual return of prosperity is assured once the natural cycles of change have been fulfilled. The key is to remain grounded, adhere to the principles of virtue, and wait for the right time to act.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of Hexagram Pǐ
The first line of Pǐ Guà (否卦), 初六 (Chū Liù), involves removing the weeds by their roots and associating with the like-minded. The result will be auspicious and smooth.
In this context, 茹 (rú) refers to the roots or stems, and 汇 (huì) refers to the types or kinds of things being gathered together. The phrase “拔茅茹，以其汇” means to pull out the weeds by their roots, thereby connecting with the right kind of people or things. The outcome will be favorable.
The first line of Pǐ Guà is similar to the first line of Tài Guà (泰卦), which also speaks of removing the weeds, but in Tài Guà, it leads to success and open paths. In Pǐ Guà, the approach requires restraint. The position of 初六 is an 阴 (Yīn, Yin) line in a 阳 (Yáng, Yang) position, meaning that it is in an inappropriate place and has limited ability to achieve goals. This suggests that one should not push forward aggressively but should be steady and wait for the right time.
However, although this line is in an improper position, it is still aligned with 九四 (Jiǔ Sì), indicating a relationship with those in power. By staying humble and maintaining a harmonious relationship with higher authorities, one can navigate through difficult times successfully.
Those who receive this hexagram should understand that the current environment is not favorable for taking action. It is essential to avoid rash decisions and instead focus on building genuine relationships and friendships. By doing so, you will gain the support you need when the time comes. During times of stagnation, it is important to retreat and maintain the right path in order to ultimately succeed.
The First Line Change of Pǐ Guà
When 初六 (Chū Liù) changes, it transforms into Hexagram 25: 天雷无妄 (Tiān Léiwú Wàng). This hexagram is a contrasting hexagram (with 震 (Zhèn) as Thunder and 乾 (Qián) as Heaven stacked together). Qián represents strength, while Zhèn represents movement. This combination indicates vigorous movement, but the message is clear: only by following the path of righteousness and not acting impulsively can one achieve success. In this case, being cautious and acting according to the correct principles will lead to positive outcomes.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of Hexagram Pǐ
The second line of Pǐ Guà, 六二 (Liù Èr), places an 阴 (Yīn) line in the Yīn position, which is a proper placement. The line is in a middle position in the lower trigram, suggesting a balanced, neutral approach. However, it is easy for this line to be influenced by others, especially by petty people. If you are a noble person (君子), you should avoid associating with the petty. If you are inclined toward following others, it is important to stay clear of those who may lead you astray.
六二 (Liù Èr): A situation of accommodating and bearing others’ behaviors; small people are fortunate, but those in high positions are blocked.
Those who receive this line should remember:
- Avoid small-mindedness: The momentary advantage brought by associating with petty people may seem favorable but can cause long-term harm.
- Patience and Distance: Noble individuals should distance themselves from petty people, while focusing on staying aligned with virtue and righteousness.
- Retreat: If you find yourself in an unfavorable position, it is better to remain cautious and avoid being swayed by external influences.
The Second Line Change of Pǐ Guà
When the 六二 (Liù Èr) line changes, it transforms into Hexagram 6: 天水讼 (Tiān Shuǐ Sòng). This hexagram is a contrasting hexagram (with 坎 (Kǎn) as Water and 乾 (Qián) as Heaven, stacked together). The hexagram represents a situation of conflict and dispute.
The Tiān Shuǐ Sòng hexagram symbolizes a time when strength (represented by Qián, Heaven) is met with danger (represented by Kǎn, Water), resulting in opposition. Strength and danger, or activity and danger, are in direct conflict with one another. This creates a situation of contention or dispute, as these forces naturally oppose each other.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of Hexagram Pǐ
The third line, 六三 (Liù Sān), is associated with 包羞 (bāo xiū), which means concealing shame. In this context, it refers to hiding your humiliation or discomfort. If you must work with petty people, you should endure their disrespect, accept the humiliation in silence, and continue to serve those in power.
六三 (Liù Sān): You are enduring shame because your position is not appropriate.
Those who receive this line should remember:
- Endurance: Accept the situation without showing frustration, and avoid reacting to insults or disrespect.
- Resilience: Despite experiencing humiliation, maintain your dignity and focus on your duties. Sometimes, avoiding confrontation and working quietly toward your goals will lead to success.
- Adjusting Relationships: If you are leading a team or organization, it is essential to readjust internal and external relationships to create harmony. This will bring long-term benefits.
The Third Line Change of Pǐ Guà
When 六三 (Liù Sān) changes, it transforms into Hexagram 33: 天山遁 (Tiān Shān Dùn). This hexagram shows Qián (Heaven) and 艮 (Gèn, Mountain) stacked together. Qián represents strength and activity, while Gèn represents stillness and retreat. This suggests that when difficulties arise, it may be time to retreat and wait for the right moment to act. In times of adversity, the wise person retreats to preserve themselves and their strength, awaiting a better opportunity.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of Hexagram Pǐ
The fourth line, 九四 (Jiǔ Sì), indicates that after a period of endurance and patience, your luck is beginning to improve, and it is now time to take action and show your abilities. If your career had been stalled due to interference from petty people, you can now return to your original path. If you are a farmer, you can begin cultivating your land again, and if opportunities arise, you can expand and contract additional land with confidence. If you are an employee, you may discover better job opportunities and have the freedom to move on to a new position. Of course, any actions taken should be righteous and beneficial to both individuals and society. You should seek like-minded individuals to collaborate with, as working together will bring happiness and success.
九四 (Jiǔ Sì): There is destiny, no blame, and the outcome is auspicious.
Those who receive this line should remember:
- Hold your destiny and act with authority, as your reputation will rise.
- No blame will occur if you act with integrity. The right people will come to you when the time is right.
- Fortune and success are tied to your actions. What is destined will come, and with it, the opportunity to prosper.
- Time and virtue will guide your path, and you will meet others who will support your cause.
The Fourth Line Change of Pǐ Guà
When 九四 (Jiǔ Sì) changes, it transforms into Hexagram 20: 风地观 (Fēng Dì Guān). This hexagram, formed by 坤 (Kūn) as Earth and 巽 (Xùn) as Wind, symbolizes the act of observing and learning from the environment. Wind moves across the Earth, indicating that influence and wisdom can be applied in subtle ways. This hexagram encourages a righteous perspective, urging one to observe the world with clarity and follow the appropriate moral path.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of Hexagram Pǐ
The fifth line, 九五 (Jiǔ Wǔ), represents the position of the ruler. It is a 阳 (Yáng) line in a 阳 (Yáng) position, which is a favorable placement, indicating that power is strong and the conditions are ripe for success. Xiàng (象) says: “大人之吉” (“The great person’s success”), meaning that the reason for this success is the appropriateness of the position.
At this stage, the obstacles and stagnation of Pǐ Guà are coming to an end. The noble person (a person of high virtue and stature) regains power, and the negative forces start to dissipate. However, one must remain cautious and avoid becoming complacent, as they have just emerged from a period of blockage. Despite the favorable conditions, vigilance is required to avoid setbacks and to maintain stability.
九五 (Jiǔ Wǔ): Rest from blockage, the great person’s success; there are still risks, and one must act with care.
Those who receive this line should remember:
- In a time of crisis, a great person’s role is crucial, but careful navigation is required to avoid risks.
- Strength and vigilance are necessary, as even in times of prosperity, there are still dangers.
- Rest from obstacles, but be aware that complacency can lead to new challenges.
- Change is inevitable, and you must act wisely, adapting to the ever-changing circumstances.
The Fifth Line Change of Pǐ Guà
When 九五 (Jiǔ Wǔ) changes, it becomes Hexagram 35: 火地晋 (Huǒ Dì Jìn). This hexagram, formed by 离 (Lí) as Fire and 坤 (Kūn) as Earth, represents growth and progress. The image of the sun shining down on the Earth indicates the flourishing of ideas and prosperity. This change indicates that things are now moving upward, and success is increasingly attainable.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of Hexagram Pǐ
At 上九 (Shàng Jiǔ), the situation has reached its peak, and the time of blockage is coming to an end. This line signifies the turning point of the situation—“否极泰来” (Pǐ jí Tài lái), meaning that after the extreme blockage, things will inevitably turn around and lead to prosperity. This is often referred to as “the end of hardship brings the arrival of joy.”
Once the difficulties have been endured, the rewards will follow. The Xiàng (象) explains: “否终则倾，何可长也!” (“When blockage ends, it turns over; how can it last forever?”). This highlights that no situation remains static forever. Eventually, the difficulties will give way to a new phase of development and success.
上九 (Shàng Jiǔ): The turning point of blockage; after hardship comes joy.
Those who receive this line should remember:
- After stagnation, progress is inevitable. The path forward is clear, and your efforts will finally pay off.
- Patience leads to transformation: All things go through cycles, and what seems difficult now will soon yield to happiness.
- Positive changes will arise from the challenges of the past, bringing about great fortune and success.
The Sixth Line Change of Pǐ Guà
When 上九 (Shàng Jiǔ) changes, it becomes Hexagram 45: 泽地萃 (Zé Dì Cuì). This hexagram, with 坤 (Kūn) as Earth and 兑 (Duì) as Lake, represents the concept of gathering and unity. The imagery of water overflowing and people coming together emphasizes the importance of collective effort and mutual support. This hexagram encourages unity and cooperation, leading to a prosperous and harmonious environment.