The Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram 13: “Tóng Rén Guà” (同人卦) in the I Ching
Tóng Rén Guà: The Union of Heaven and Fire
The Tóng Rén Guà (同人卦), or Hexagram 13 in the I Ching, is formed by the stacking of two different hexagrams: Li (离), Fire, as the lower trigram, and Qián (乾), Heaven, as the upper trigram. Qián represents Heaven, which is strong, bright, and high above, shining light upon the world and bringing warmth. Li, representing Fire, is situated below and also gives light and warmth, with its flames burning brightly. Even though the positions of the Sun (Heaven) and Fire are different, their functions are the same—they both bring warmth and illumination. This parallelism in function and purpose is why the hexagram is called Tóng Rén, which translates as “Union of People” or “Working in Harmony.”
The Image (象) says:
“Heaven and Fire, united in harmony; a gentleman discriminates between things by their kinds.”
This indicates that people should understand that “things of a kind attract each other, and people gather in groups based on shared interests.” It also suggests that one should clearly distinguish between matters, pursue unity while respecting differences, and unite people in order to manage the world effectively.
Meaning of the Hexagram: Harmony Between Heaven and Earth
Tóng Rén Guà represents the harmonious union of opposites, the cooperation between different elements. It symbolizes unity and cooperation at all levels, from the most basic personal relationships to the governance of the world. This hexagram suggests that by uniting, people can achieve success and accomplish great things together. The union of Heaven (Qián) and Fire (Li) also metaphorically illustrates the idea of a harmonious and balanced relationship between higher authority (the ruler) and the common people, all working together for a common purpose.
The Image (象) further elaborates:
“If there is suspicion or uncertainty in the heart, previous plans will not succeed. However, meeting a wise person will help guide the way, and worries will dissipate.”
This suggests that in times of doubt, guidance from a virtuous and insightful person can help remove obstacles and lead to success.
Interpretation by Classical Scholars:
- Interpretation by Shao Yong (北宋易学家邵雍):
“The union of people, living in harmony with others; all desires are fulfilled, and all things go as expected.”
This suggests that the hexagram signifies good fortune, success, and smooth collaboration with others. When the individual and collective efforts are aligned, it is a time for accomplishment and achievement. - Interpretation by Fu Peirong (傅佩荣), Taiwan Scholar:
“Time and Fate: You will receive support from friends, and career advancement will be smooth.”
“Wealth: Joint ventures will prove fruitful; you can take steps to advance.”
“Home: Harmony and happiness within the family.”
“Health: Tendency to experience heat-related ailments; seek the advice of a good doctor.”
Traditional Interpretation of the Hexagram:
This hexagram is formed by stacking Li (Fire) below Qián (Heaven), and its meaning is similar to the relationship between a ruler and their subjects. Qián is strong and represents leadership, while Li is fire and represents the people’s energy and actions. The harmonious relationship between the two reflects a perfect balance between authority and the people, leading to a thriving, prosperous environment. It signifies the importance of unity and cooperation between different levels of society.
The Great Image (大象) says:
“Two hearts working in unity can cut through metal. A gentleman’s sincerity and honesty bring people together.”
This points to the power of unity and mutual support. The cooperation between individuals in harmony can lead to overcoming even the toughest obstacles. It also implies that one must act sincerely and genuinely when collaborating with others, as this will foster trust and collective success.
Fortune and Prospects:
- Fortune: Good luck and success will come, especially when collaborating with others. There will be harmony both from above and below, as well as support from higher authorities.
- Career: Things will go smoothly, especially in partnerships and collaborations. Expanding social circles and forming networks will bring prosperity. Work to overcome narrow-mindedness and ensure the fair treatment of everyone involved. The pursuit of greater good, while maintaining smaller differences, will lead to great achievements.
- Business: Engage in sincere, cooperative efforts with others. Fair competition will allow you to obtain the benefits you deserve.
- Reputation: Personal hard work and collaboration with teachers and like-minded friends will lead to success. If you approach matters with humility and determination, your goals will be achieved.
- Love and Relationships: You are sociable, with many friends of the opposite sex. However, be cautious in choosing partners and ensure that relationships are nurtured and maintained with harmony for family peace.
- Decision-Making: Your cheerful, optimistic, and enthusiastic character makes you well-liked by others. With strong social skills and the ability to build relationships, you must use your ability to coordinate and maintain your principles. Stand firm against negative trends, take decisive actions, and demonstrate leadership and dedication. You are well-suited to take on responsibilities.
Tóng Rén Guà emphasizes the power of unity and cooperation, both on a personal level and in larger social contexts. It encourages us to work together with others, aligning our efforts toward shared goals. The wisdom of this hexagram teaches us that with sincerity, mutual respect, and collaboration, we can achieve success and prosperity.
Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram Tóng Rén First Line
The First Line: Chū Jiǔ (初九)
The first line of the Tóng Rén Guà (同人卦) represents the beginning state of this hexagram. This line is a Yáng (阳) line, positioned in the Gāng (刚) or strong position, which is considered the most favorable. It is a position of power and proper alignment, thus suggesting a favorable situation. The first line’s dynamic represents an open and just interaction with others, especially when there is no personal agenda or private interests at play. There is no hidden favoritism, and the interaction is broad and fair, symbolizing an outward engagement with the world. While it has not yet reached the ideal state of complete unity represented by “Yě” (野, meaning “great unity” in the hexagram’s text), it has already surpassed narrow, familial or in-group relations. Therefore, such a broad, open interaction will not lead to any mistakes or misunderstandings.
Chū Jiǔ (初九): “Tóng Rén yú mén, wú jiù” (同人于门，无咎)
Translation: “Unity is at the door, no blame.”
Key Insights for this Line:
- When working with others, approach the situation with fairness and openness.
- Just as a harmonious meeting of people (such as friends or colleagues) can cut through the hardest metals, sincerity and righteousness will overcome all obstacles.
- At the right time, opportunities will come, bringing joy and success.
- There should be no hesitation or greed, both internally and externally; harmony is the key.
- Disputes or complaints will disappear as long as goodwill and sincerity are at the center of any interaction.
- Engage in broad collaborations or enterprises, as this will naturally lead to successful outcomes.
- Even in the most expansive endeavors, patience, and consistency will ensure eventual success.
Change in the First Line: Transition to Hexagram 33: “Tiān Shān Dùn” (天山遁)
When the first line changes, the result is Hexagram 33: “Tiān Shān Dùn” (天山遁), or “Heaven and Mountain, Retreat.” This hexagram is made up of Qián (乾), Heaven, above, and Gèn (艮), Mountain, below. This situation symbolizes a time of retreat, suggesting that in times of challenge or danger, it is best to withdraw strategically and wait for a better opportunity. The hexagram advises caution and careful planning, as external forces may become too powerful, and it may be wise to retreat in order to safeguard oneself and wait for a favorable moment.
Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram Tóng Rén Second Line
The Second Line: Liù Èr (六二)
In the context of Tóng Rén Guà, the second line represents a Yīn (阴) line in a Yīn (阴) position. It is central and balanced, with a positive alignment with the fifth line (Jiǔ Wǔ / 九五), which is typically considered a favorable pairing. However, in this particular hexagram, the correspondence between the second and fifth lines may indicate the presence of personal interests or biases. This can be interpreted as representing relationships based on familial or close-knit connections, which while not inherently wrong, can be narrow and limiting. The ideal state of the hexagram calls for openness and impartiality, which can be hindered by such private attachments or preferential treatment.
Liù Èr (六二): “Tóng Rén yú zōng, lìn” (同人于宗，吝)
Translation: “Unity is within the clan, but there is miserliness.”
Key Insights for this Line:
- Focusing only on one’s family or clan can limit personal growth and opportunities.
- One should avoid being constrained by narrow, exclusive circles, as this limits success and collaboration.
- This line suggests that one should move beyond familial loyalty and form broader, more open relationships.
- The existence of personal biases or attachments may hinder progress and lead to difficult situations.
- The idea is to seek a more inclusive and open perspective, both in personal and professional spheres.
Change in the Second Line: Transition to Hexagram 1: “Qián Wéi Tiān” (乾为天)
When the second line changes, it leads to Hexagram 1: “Qián Wéi Tiān” (乾为天), or “Heaven Above.” This hexagram represents power, strength, and creation. It is associated with the force of Heaven, symbolizing a time for active, dynamic growth. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to the right principles and following the natural order to succeed. This hexagram advocates a pure, strong, and disciplined approach to achieving one’s goals and encourages action based on integrity and wisdom.
Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram Tóng Rén Third Line
The Third Line: Jiǔ Sān (九三)
The third line of Tóng Rén Guà represents a Yáng (阳) line in the strong, upper position. This line can be understood by considering the relationships within the hexagram as a whole. Here, Liù Èr (六二) represents a woman (a Yīn line), and Jiǔ Sān (九三) is a Yáng line representing a man. The third line is positioned in a way that suggests a challenge: this line represents the ruler of a smaller state, and someone from a more powerful ally or external force desires to form an alliance by marrying a woman from the smaller state. The ruler, fearing the power of the external force, wants to keep the woman for himself. He retreats and prepares for battle, trying to protect what he believes is his own.
In the context of Tóng Rén Guà, this line shows the challenge of dealing with stronger forces and competing interests. The image suggests that external forces can sometimes overshadow our own authority, and in these cases, we must be prepared for challenges and make strategic decisions to avoid disaster.
Jiǔ Sān (九三): “Fú Róng yú mǎng, shēng qí gāo líng, sān suì bù xīng” (伏戎于莽，升其高陵，三岁不兴)
Translation: “Laying low in the wilderness, ascending to the high ridge, unable to rise for three years.”
Key Insights for this Line:
- In the face of external threats, it may be necessary to lie low and wait for the right moment to act.
- Action should be cautious and calculated, with strategic waiting rather than rushing into confrontation.
- The path to success may be slow, but by being patient and prudent, one can overcome challenges.
- Avoid rash actions, as they could bring unexpected danger or difficulty.
- It is important to maintain peace, avoid impulsive decisions, and watch for external changes.
Change in the Third Line: Transition to Hexagram 25: “Tiān Léi Wú Wàng” (天雷无妄)
When the third line changes, it leads to Hexagram 25: “Tiān Léi Wú Wàng” (天雷无妄), or “Heaven and Thunder, the Unanticipated.” This hexagram symbolizes sincerity and integrity, and it highlights the idea that while change is inevitable, actions based on genuine principles will lead to success. It stresses that to act without ill intentions will bring positive results, and while the future may be uncertain, purity of purpose will ultimately yield rewards.
Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram Tóng Rén Fourth Line
The Fourth Line: Jiǔ Sì (九四)
For those who have drawn this line, it’s important to understand the concept of knowing when to give up. It is like preparing for battle on top of the city wall, but choosing to withdraw instead—this decision brings a favorable result. As the Xiàng (象) text says: “Chéng qí yōng,” meaning “to climb the city wall but not attack.” The key here is that refraining from an action that is unjust or unworthy is the right course. This illustrates that realizing a certain action is not ethical or just at the moment of confrontation leads to a positive outcome. The correct decision in moments of confusion is to awaken and act in alignment with the right principles.
Jiǔ Sì (九四): “Chéng qí yōng, fú kè gōng, jí” (乘其墉，弗克攻，吉)
Translation: “Climbing the city wall but not attacking; this is auspicious.”
Key Insights for this Line:
- When situations present themselves, knowing when to hold back or retreat is sometimes the wisest option.
- Pursuing something aggressively may lead to harm, so instead, it’s better to retreat or reassess.
- Premature attacks can lead to failure, while withdrawing can lead to peace and success.
- Harmony in relationships, by stepping back and thinking strategically, brings better outcomes than rash action.
- Be cautious of trying to take advantage of a situation when the conditions aren’t right.
Change in the Fourth Line: Transition to Hexagram 37: “Fēng Huǒ Jiā Rén” (风火家人)
When the fourth line changes, it leads to Hexagram 37: “Fēng Huǒ Jiā Rén” (风火家人), or “Wind and Fire, Family.” This hexagram consists of Lí (离), Fire, below, and Xùn (巽), Wind, above. This symbolizes the importance of internal harmony and balance—starting with family and then extending outward to society. Just as wind and fire interact, internal peace and order must precede external success. This hexagram emphasizes the necessity of properly managing one’s family before trying to rule the world, suggesting that a well-ordered family leads to a harmonious society.
Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram Tóng Rén Fifth Line
The Fifth Line: Jiǔ Wǔ (九五)
In the Xiàng (象) commentary, this line is interpreted as follows: “Tóng Rén zhī xiān, yǐ zhōng zhí yě; dà shī xiāng yù, tiān wǎng jí shàng yù, yán xiāng kè yě.” This means that the first step in unity is sincerity and correctness, which is exemplified by a master encountering someone of equal worth. It is about sincerity and patience—initially, one may experience sorrow or doubt, but eventually, through persistence and aligning with the right person, one will find joy and success.
This line represents the joy that follows after difficulties in finding like-minded people. It may be painful at first, but in the end, it is rewarding to find someone who shares your values and goals. In a situation where negotiations with a partner are at an impasse, unexpectedly, a third party might appear, bringing an opportunity that turns things in your favor. This third party can be considered as part of the “Tóng Rén” concept, as they help expand your scope and lead you to success.
Jiǔ Wǔ (九五): “Tóng Rén, xiān hào tiāo, ér hòu xiào, dà shī kè xiāng yù” (同人，先号眺，而后笑，大师克相遇)
Translation: “Unity comes first with a cry and then a smile, the great master meets with success.”
Key Insights for this Line:
- Persistence pays off: The path to success might be filled with difficulty, but keep pushing forward.
- Unexpected assistance: When facing challenges, an unexpected third party may provide the breakthrough you need.
- Embrace collaboration: Sometimes, what seems like a setback will lead to a beneficial collaboration.
- Victory comes through unity: The combined efforts of like-minded individuals lead to success, though it may take time and patience.
- Finding harmony: After a period of struggle or resistance, joy and success will eventually follow.
Change in the Fifth Line: Transition to Hexagram 30: “Lí Wéi Huǒ” (离为火)
When the fifth line changes, it transitions to Hexagram 30: “Lí Wéi Huǒ” (离为火), or “Fire Above.” This hexagram represents the qualities of brightness and clarity, symbolized by fire. It is about illumination, understanding, and progress. The inner truth and clarity of fire, which burns steadily and brightly, leads to the cultivation of wisdom. This hexagram encourages a steady pursuit of truth, and while the path might sometimes seem difficult, following a clear, righteous way will eventually lead to success.
Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram Tóng Rén Sixth Line
The Sixth Line: Shàng Jiǔ (上九)
The sixth line, the final line of the Tóng Rén Guà, represents a Yáng (阳) line in a Róu (柔) position, which is not in an advantageous position. It is distant from Liù Èr (六二), the second line, and there is a gap between them filled by other Yáng lines. If one forces a connection with Liù Èr, it could lead to exhausting energy and conflict. This line advises against striving for the best outcome by seeking distant connections, suggesting instead that it is better to form alliances with those closer and more available. Sometimes, simplicity and peace are better than striving for something difficult or overly ambitious.
Shàng Jiǔ (上九): “Tóng Rén yú jiāo, wú huǐ” (同人于郊，无悔)
Translation: “Unity in the countryside, no regrets.”
Key Insights for this Line:
- Avoid unnecessary struggles: Don’t exhaust yourself by seeking perfection or distant connections.
- Sometimes, it’s better to form relationships with people who are close by, with whom you can live in harmony.
- Peaceful life: You don’t always need to aim for the grandest success; simple, harmonious relationships may bring lasting fulfillment.
- Avoid unnecessary complications: Be mindful of where you invest your energy—sometimes focusing on simpler things yields the best result.
- There’s no regret in choosing peaceful, more grounded relationships.
Change in the Sixth Line: Transition to Hexagram 49: “Zé Huǒ Gé” (泽火革)
When the sixth line changes, it transitions to Hexagram 49: “Zé Huǒ Gé” (泽火革), or “Lake and Fire, Revolution.” This hexagram consists of Lí (离), Fire, above, and Duì (兑), Lake, below. The interaction of water and fire represents transformation and change, signaling a time of revolution or reform. In this hexagram, change is inevitable, and it encourages embracing transformation rather than resisting it. Transformation is a natural part of life, and only through adaptation and change can progress be achieved.