The Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram 7: Shī (师) – The Army Hexagram
This hexagram consists of two different trigrams stacked together, with Kǎn (坎, Water) as the lower trigram and Kūn (坤, Earth) as the upper trigram.
- Shī (师) means army or troops.
- Kǎn (坎, Water) symbolizes danger and unpredictability.
- Kūn (坤, Earth) represents submission and stability.
This hexagram suggests a concept of hiding military forces within agricultural society, implying that soldiers originate from the common people. War is dangerous and should only be waged as a last resort by a wise leader. However, when necessary, military action can resolve conflicts smoothly because it aligns with the greater circumstances—“righteous wars” bring order and turn misfortune into fortune.
For those who receive this hexagram in a divination, it is highly favorable for military endeavors, ensuring success without disasters. The Shī Hexagram symbolizes a powerful, dominant force that overcomes a larger opposition with fewer troops.
Shī Hexagram in the Sequence of the I Ching
Shī follows the Sòng (讼, Conflict) Hexagram in the I Ching. The sequence is explained as:
“Where there is conflict, large groups of people will rise up, leading to the need for an army. Shī represents the masses.”
When disputes escalate beyond control, they result in armed forces forming to resolve conflicts.
Interpretation from the Book of Changes (Yi Jing)
Symbolism of the Hexagram
- The lower trigram, Kǎn (坎, Water), symbolizes danger.
- The upper trigram, Kūn (坤, Earth), symbolizes submission.
The entire hexagram portrays underground water—a hidden and endless source. This reflects how soldiers originate from the peasantry. Just as the earth stores water, a wise leader should nurture and support the people, allowing a strong military force to be naturally cultivated when needed.
Imagery of the Shī Hexagram
This hexagram is often associated with tigers, horses, and oxen, which correspond to the Chinese zodiac signs Yín (寅, Tiger), Wǔ (午, Horse), and Wèi (未, Goat).
- A general stands on a platform, commanding troops.
- An official kneels before him, receiving military orders or honors.
- This hexagram symbolizes a powerful and disciplined military force that subdues the masses with order and strategy.
Traditional I Ching Interpretations of the Shī Hexagram
Master Shao Yong’s Interpretation (Northern Song Dynasty)
- “To endure hardship for the people, transformation is limitless.”
- “Righteousness and fairness overcome all difficulties.”
Those who receive this hexagram will face many challenges and hardships. It is crucial to tolerate others, work diligently, and overcome obstacles with perseverance.
Fu Pei-Rong’s Interpretation (Taiwanese I Ching Scholar)
- Fate: Be patient, nurture others, and wait for the right time.
- Wealth: Financial success is possible, but careful management is required.
- Home & Family: Favorable for marriages between long-time acquaintances.
- Health: Be cautious of abdominal bloating; proper energy flow will resolve issues.
Traditional Analysis of the Shī Hexagram
- This hexagram represents an army or military force.
- Kǎn (Water) symbolizes danger, while Kūn (Earth) symbolizes submission—indicating that warfare should only be pursued as a last resort.
- A well-led army can resolve conflicts smoothly, transforming misfortune into fortune.
General Meaning
- Strategic military action and assembling forces.
- War leads to casualties, making peace and stability difficult to maintain.
Fortune & Career Prospects
Overall Luck: Many difficulties will arise. Act with integrity and avoid recklessness. Beware of hidden enemies.
Business & Trade: You may have accumulated some wealth, but future ventures will require facing intense competition. Success will come through determination, honesty, and strategic adaptability. Avoid being overly greedy, and maintain good relationships with others to overcome difficulties.
Career Advancement: You have great potential, but guidance is necessary. Stay disciplined and avoid external distractions. With persistent effort, both fame and fortune can be achieved.
Love & Relationships: Be cautious and dedicated in love. Avoid entanglements in love triangles. If pursued sincerely, your efforts will succeed.
Decision-Making & Strategy:
You are intelligent, adaptable, and have strong willpower.
You pursue your goals with determination and resilience.
You thrive in competitive environments and enjoy debate.
However, your adventurous nature may bring unnecessary trouble.
Remain mature, steady, and fair—avoid seeking personal gain at the expense of integrity.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Shī Hexagram
Discipline and Order in Military Affairs
- Lǜ (律): Military discipline, rules, and regulations.
- Bùzāng (否臧): Bad or improper conduct. Here, it refers to the failure to uphold military discipline.
The meaning of this line is clear: A military expedition must be conducted with strict discipline. If discipline is chaotic, disaster will follow.
Hexagram Symbolism
From the perspective of the hexagram’s structure:
- Chūliù (初六) is a yin (阴) line in a yang (阳) position, indicating weakness and lack of ability.
- It is located in the Kǎn (坎, Water) trigram, symbolizing danger and instability.
This represents a low-ranking soldier with weak qualities and little competence who fails to follow discipline. For such soldiers, strict rules and firm control are necessary, or else the army will become disorganized and ineffective.
Practical Implications
For those who receive this hexagram in a divination:
- If you are a leader, manager, or business owner, strict discipline is crucial.
- Personal virtues are important, but clear rules and regulations are even more vital.
- If guidelines and protocols are established and strictly followed, operations will run smoothly.
- Without discipline, the company or organization may face severe difficulties.
Transformation of the First Line
When the Chūliù (初六) line changes, the hexagram transforms into Hexagram 19: Lín (临, Approaching).
This hexagram consists of:
- Dui (兑, Lake) as the lower trigram
- Kūn (坤, Earth) as the upper trigram
Symbolism of Hexagram 19: Approaching
- The earth is above the lake, and the lake is contained within the earth.
- This represents a wise ruler personally overseeing governance, ensuring harmony between the leadership and the people.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Shī Hexagram
Righteous Leadership and Royal Decree
- Wáng (王): The ruler, king, or sovereign.
- Xī mìng (锡命): A royal decree or reward granted by the king.
This line means:
- A military leader who remains impartial and just will achieve success and avoid disasters.
- The king repeatedly grants him rewards, signifying royal favor.
Hexagram Symbolism
- Jiǔèr (九二) is a yang (阳) line in the central position of the lower trigram.
- It corresponds with Liùwǔ (六五), the ruler’s position, which symbolizes the king’s full support for this military leader.
Interpretation from the Book of Changes
- “Success within the army is due to receiving the favor of Heaven.”
- “The king grants three royal decrees, bringing peace to the nation.”
Practical Implications
If you receive this hexagram:
- Learn from historical figures like Duke of Shao (召公虎), who acted righteously and avoided disaster.
- By staying upright and principled, one will receive promotions and rewards.
As the commander-in-chief, Jiǔèr holds great power and naturally enjoys prosperity and protection.
- The three royal decrees signify the immense trust and authority granted by the king.
- According to the Zhou Rituals (周礼), the three decrees represent:
- First decree: Assignment to a position.
- Second decree: Granting of official attire.
- Third decree: Appointment to a high-ranking title.
This aligns with the story of King Wu (武王), who received rewards from King Wen (文王) for his military achievements before officially ascending the throne.
Transformation of the Second Line
When Jiǔèr (九二) changes, the hexagram transforms into Hexagram 2: Kūn (坤, Earth).
This hexagram consists of:
- Kūn (坤, Earth) as both the lower and upper trigram.
Symbolism of Hexagram 2: Earth
- This is the pure yin (阴) hexagram, symbolizing submission, support, and nurturing.
- It represents the earth following the heavens, embracing and sustaining all things.
- The image of a mare symbolizes the land’s ability to nurture life while remaining adaptable and aligned with the heavens.
The lesson here is to follow the righteous path and align with greater forces to achieve success.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Shī Hexagram
Disaster in War: A Warning Against Recklessness
- Yú (舆): A vehicle or carriage.
- Yúshī (舆尸): A carriage carrying corpses—symbolizing the grim consequences of war.
This line warns:
- Soldiers frequently transport the bodies of fallen comrades back from battle, indicating severe misfortune.
Hexagram Symbolism
- Liùsān (六三) is a yin (阴) line in a yang (阳) position, symbolizing weakness, recklessness, and impatience.
- It is at the top of the Kǎn (坎, Water) trigram, which represents danger.
- This position is extremely perilous.
Instead of proceeding cautiously, this position suggests a soldier who ignores orders and rushes into battle recklessly.
- Since Liùsān is above Jiǔèr (九二), the commander, it implies disobedience to military leadership.
- Overconfidence and defiance lead to defeat, resulting in massive casualties.
Interpretation from the Book of Changes
- “When an army carries back the dead, it signifies a great failure.”
- This means the soldiers underestimated the enemy, leading to disastrous consequences.
Practical Implications
- An army should act with careful planning and strategic awareness.
- Recklessness leads to unnecessary bloodshed and loss.
- If you receive this hexagram, beware of overestimating yourself and making hasty decisions.
The image is tragic:
- Soldiers return from battle carrying only the bodies of their fallen comrades instead of victorious spoils.
- This failure is not just external (losing the battle) but also internal (punishment from the commander for reckless actions).
Transformation of the Third Line
When Liùsān (六三) changes, the hexagram transforms into Hexagram 46: Shēng (升, Ascending).
This hexagram consists of:
- Xùn (巽, Wind) as the lower trigram
- Kūn (坤, Earth) as the upper trigram
Symbolism of Hexagram 46: Ascending
- Trees growing from the earth symbolize steady progress.
- With patience and persistence, success is attainable.
- This hexagram emphasizes gradual advancement rather than reckless action.
The lesson here:
- Instead of rushing forward blindly, progress step by step with wisdom and perseverance.
- Success comes not from impulsiveness but from careful planning and patience.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Shī Hexagram
Left Retreat and Camp (左次, Zuǒ Cì): In ancient Chinese military strategy, the right side was associated with advancing, while the left side represented retreating. The term “cì (次)” refers to staying in one place for more than two nights. According to the Zuǒ Zhuàn (左传), “凡师，一宿为舍，再宿为信，过信为次” (“For an army, staying one night is called ‘shè (舍),’ two nights is called ‘xìn (信),’ and more than two nights is called ‘cì (次)’”).
The meaning of this hexagram line is: Leading an army to temporarily retreat can help avoid unnecessary losses.
From the hexagram’s structure, Liù Sì (六四) is a yin (阴) line in a yin position, symbolizing retreat and withdrawal.
The Xiàng (象) commentary explains: “Left retreat and camp, no misfortune” (左次无咎). This means that although retreating may seem unusual, it is a strategic move rather than a mistake.
For those who receive this hexagram, it suggests that one should adjust strategies based on the situation and sometimes retreat temporarily to achieve greater goals.
This principle teaches that victory is not always about direct confrontation. Knowing when to retreat preserves strength for future success. Mao Zedong’s guerrilla warfare strategy—“when the enemy advances, we retreat; when the enemy retreats, we harass”—illustrates this philosophy. Retreating is a tactical move, not a sign of failure. For example, during the Six Northern Expeditions (六出祁山, Liù Chū Qíshān) led by Zhuge Liang, despite repeated defeats, he ensured minimal casualties by retreating strategically, preserving his army’s fighting power.
Transformation of the Fourth Line of the Shī Hexagram
When the fourth line (六四) moves, it transforms into Hexagram 40: Thunder over Water (雷水解, Léi Shuǐ jiě). This hexagram symbolizes release and resolution, where winter gives way to spring, difficulties dissipate, and new opportunities arise.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Shī Hexagram
Lì Zhí Yán (利执言): In ancient times, this phrase was used in the context of hunting, referring to capturing prey. Here, it metaphorically means that there are internal enemies causing disorder in the state, which justifies military action. A war with justifiable reasons brings no misfortune.
From the hexagram’s structure, Liù Wǔ (六五) is a yin (阴) line in the ruler’s position, but its yin nature suggests a peaceful and just approach. This ruler is not aggressive but values fairness and diplomacy. However, since the state is under attack, military action is necessary, and the ruler must be wise in choosing capable commanders.
The Xiàng (象) commentary states:
- “The eldest son leads the army” (长子帅师) – This signifies leading the army with righteous command.
- “The younger brother carries the dead” (弟子舆尸) – This warns against assigning the wrong person to a crucial role, as incompetence can lead to disastrous consequences.
The key message is that a war fought for justice will bring no disaster, as long as capable leaders are chosen.
Transformation of the Fifth Line of the Shī Hexagram
When the fifth line (六五) moves, it transforms into Hexagram 29: Water over Water (坎为水, Kǎn Wéi Shuǐ). This hexagram symbolizes great danger and obstacles but also emphasizes perseverance and integrity as the key to navigating difficulties.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Shī Hexagram
Dà Jūn (大君, Great Lord) – Fēng Guó (封国, Granting Territories) – Chéng Jiā (承家, Establishing Households):
- Dà Jūn (大君) refers to the supreme ruler, the emperor.
- Guó (国) refers to territories granted to nobles, meaning that meritorious officials are rewarded with land and titles.
- Jiā (家) refers to the estates granted to high-ranking ministers.
This hexagram line represents the victorious return of the army. The emperor issues decrees to reward generals and ministers, granting them noble titles and territories. However, unworthy individuals must not be given power.
Shàng Liù (上六) is the final line, indicating the conclusion of the campaign and the return home for recognition and rewards. For those receiving this hexagram, it suggests that if you are a leader or employer, you must fairly reward those who contributed to success but be cautious in elevating untrustworthy individuals.
This mirrors the historical event of King Wu of Zhou (周武王) defeating the Shang dynasty and rewarding his allies. King Wu, having ascended to the throne, became the leader of the feudal lords (诸侯, zhū hóu) and distributed lands to meritorious officials. The first to be rewarded was Jiang Ziya (姜子牙), who became the founding ruler of the State of Qi (齐国, Qí Guó). However, King Wu also emphasized that unworthy individuals must not be given important positions.
Transformation of the Sixth Line of the Shī Hexagram
When the sixth line (上六) moves, it transforms into Hexagram 4: Mountain over Water (山水蒙, Shān Shuǐ Méng). This hexagram symbolizes ignorance and inexperience but also the potential for enlightenment and guidance. It suggests that while success has been achieved, wisdom and prudence are needed to maintain stability and prevent future mistakes.