Philosophical Meaning of the Ninth Hexagram: The Lesser Accumulation (小畜卦, Xiǎo Chù Guà)
The Xiǎo Chù Guà (小畜卦), or the Lesser Accumulation hexagram, is a combination of two trigrams: Qián (乾) below, representing Heaven, and Xùn (巽) above, representing Wind. This configuration symbolizes favorable weather conditions: gentle winds, ample rainfall, and the growth of crops. Therefore, the name Xiǎo Chù (小畜), meaning small accumulation, reflects the idea of accumulating in small, gradual amounts.
The term chù (畜) originally referred to crops or produce accumulated in the fields, and it extends to mean the accumulation of resources or strength. Xiǎo chù refers to the process of slowly gathering small amounts, as one’s power is still limited and has not yet reached the level of a greater accumulation (dà chù, 大畜). Therefore, the current state is one of waiting and preparation, a time for growth until one is ready for a larger undertaking.
Xiǎo Chù hexagram comes after the Bǐ hexagram (比卦) in the sequence of hexagrams. The Xù hexagram (序卦) or “Sequence of the Hexagrams” explains this transition: “Bǐ bì yǒu suǒ chù, gù shòu zhī yǐ xiǎo chù” (比必有所畜，故受之以小畜), meaning that Bǐ (the hexagram of mutual association) inevitably leads to accumulation, and thus follows with Xiǎo Chù, a hexagram symbolizing the beginning of such accumulation.
The Image (象) says: “Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé” (君子以懿文德), which Xún Shuǎng (荀爽) interprets as referring to King Wén of Zhōu (周文王), who had not yet become the emperor and could not apply his benevolence or policy to the people. Therefore, he focused on cultivating his own moral character. In fact, this hexagram is more fittingly associated with the Zhōu Gōng (周公) during the time when he acted as regent for the young Chéng Wáng (成王) and governed on behalf of the Zhōu dynasty. During this time, the Zhōu Gōng focused on accumulating small resources and laying the foundation for future prosperity, thus giving rise to small yet significant progress. His military campaigns, particularly the eastern expeditions, helped secure the future of the Western Zhōu dynasty.
Interpretation from the “Dùn Yì Tiān Jī” (断易天机)
Xiǎo Chù hexagram features the Xùn (Wind) trigram above and the Qián (Heaven) trigram below, indicating that although there is great potential, the accumulation of resources is still small. The Yáng (active) force is strong, but the Yīn (passive) force is still insufficient, causing temporary stagnation. However, this stagnation is not permanent, and eventual success is still possible.
Interpretation from the Northern Song Dynasty Scholar Shào Yōng (邵雍)
Shào Yōng, a prominent scholar from the Northern Song Dynasty, interpreted Xiǎo Chù as a symbol of limited strength and an obstruction to progress. He suggested that this hexagram represents a period of accumulating resources in preparation for future success. Shào Yōng advised patience and a strategic wait for the right moment to move forward, rather than rushing into action.
Interpretation by Taiwan’s Renowned Scholar Fù Pèi Róng (傅佩荣)
- Fortune: Ordinary, with external forces restricting progress.
- Financial Situation: Appears good on the surface, but there is hidden internal loss.
- Home: A stable, modest life; however, there could be some verbal disputes. Marriage to a virtuous woman.
- Health: Prone to ailments related to wind and fire. Children may fare well, but adults could face challenges.
Traditional Interpretation of the Hexagram (传统解卦)
This hexagram, with Qián (乾, Heaven) below and Xùn (巽, Wind) above, represents favorable conditions for growth but on a smaller scale. It emphasizes the idea of accumulating small resources, being patient, and preparing for future growth, even though one’s current capabilities may seem limited.
- The Great Image (大象) says: “The amount of accumulation is limited, and strength may not be sufficient. Therefore, patience and the accumulation of power is necessary, while waiting for the right opportunity.”
- Fortune: The overall situation may fluctuate, with some verbal conflicts that are difficult to resolve in the short term. Patience and careful management of relationships are necessary.
- Career: The right time to act has not yet arrived, so it is important to steadily accumulate strength and avoid risky actions. Perseverance is key in overcoming setbacks. With continued effort, success will come. Prepare for potential challenges, but remain committed to your goals and principles.
- Business: You have already built a foundation, but there is still danger of losing it. Extreme caution is required, and cooperation with others should be sincere, aiming for mutual benefit without greed. While it is important to not rest on your laurels, you should also avoid overreaching.
- Seeking Fame: Establish lofty goals and pursue them with determination. Seek guidance from others and accept sincere help, but beware of potential sabotage from envious individuals.
- Love and Marriage: Both parties must be deeply loyal, as there is a strong possibility of third-party interference.
- Decision-Making: Progress may not be smooth, and unexpected difficulties will arise. However, your strong willpower and determination will help you overcome adversity. Support from like-minded allies will be crucial, and you should be cautious of people who may hinder your efforts. While it is important to aim high, do not overreach or push too hard, as this may lead to setbacks.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Xiǎo Chù Hexagram
Chū Jiǔ (初九): Fù zì dào, hé qí jiù, jí. (复自道，何其咎，吉)
The first line of Xiǎo Chù Guà refers to Chū Jiǔ, the initial Yang (active) line in a strong position. This line represents someone who, while ambitious and eager to move forward, might lack sufficient experience and capability. This eagerness to advance without proper preparation leads to setbacks, often facing opposition from more experienced forces (such as Jiǔ Èr in the second line, a Yīn or passive line).
However, Chū Jiǔ, being in a favorable position, can recognize its mistakes and realign with its original path, returning to the right course. This process of returning to one’s true path—fù zì dào (复自道)—is viewed as auspicious, as it allows for correction and balance.
This idea can be understood in a broader sense: just as each celestial body follows its own orbit, so too must one adhere to their own path to avoid missteps. Acknowledging when you are deviating from your true nature or core competencies and returning to your rightful path leads to harmony and good fortune.
This concept also resonates with a famous quote from Chairman Mao Zedong: “Do not fear making mistakes; once corrected, you are a good comrade.” The idea is that, even when one strays from the correct path, returning to it—acknowledging and correcting one’s error—leads to positive outcomes.
A historical example can be seen after the death of Wǔ Wáng (武王), when the remnants of Yīng Shāng (殷商) sought to rise again. However, due to the governance and wisdom of Zhōu Gōng (周公), these dangerous factions were pacified, preventing the threat from becoming disastrous.
The Lesser Accumulation First Line Changing Hexagram
The first line change transforms Xiǎo Chù Guà into Fēng Tiān Xiǎo Chù (风天小畜), which in turn changes to the 57th hexagram, Xùn (巽) over Qián (乾), representing Wind over Heaven. This hexagram suggests an unstoppable wind, a powerful force that moves continuously and pervasively. It is also associated with qualities of humility and adaptability, suggesting that with the right attitude and actions, success can be achieved without obstruction.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Xiǎo Chù Hexagram
Jiǔ Èr (九二): Qiān fù, jí. (牵复，吉)
The second line, Jiǔ Èr, indicates a return to one’s correct path, not by personal realization, but through external influence or pressure. Unlike the first line, where the person returns to the correct path through self-awareness, in the second line, the person is forced or guided back onto their path due to external circumstances.
An example from the Yì Duàn (易断) illustrates this idea: A ship is stuck in shallow waters, unable to move forward, and external forces (like another ship) help pull it out. The person seeking advice had originally asked about the potential risks to the ship and received a divination suggesting Qiān fù, a return to the original path, which turned out to be auspicious. The advice was that external intervention could guide the individual back to safety and stability.
In life, if one feels determined to pursue something but faces strong opposition or discouragement from family or friends (such as parental disapproval), it might be wise to reconsider and return to the original course, as this will lead to a favorable outcome.
This concept is also represented in the example of Wǔ Wáng‘s death, where Gǔn Shū (管叔), Zhōu Gōng‘s brother, initially thought to usurp power. However, due to the wisdom of Zhōu Gōng and his advisors, such rebellious plans were foiled, showing that following the right course, especially under pressure, brings about good fortune.
The Lesser Accumulation Second Line Changing Hexagram
The second line change transforms Xiǎo Chù Guà into Fēng Tiān Xiǎo Chù (风天小畜) to Fēng Huǒ Jiā Rén (风火家人), the 37th hexagram, which signifies harmony within the family and the importance of order and respect within the household before addressing larger concerns of the world. The image of Fēng (wind) and Huǒ (fire) suggests that personal matters and inner harmony provide the foundation for greater social harmony. In terms of Xiǎo Chù, this reinforces the idea of resolving family matters and ensuring stability at home before expanding outward.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Xiǎo Chù Hexagram
Jiǔ Sān (九三): Yú shuō fú, fū qī fǎn mù. (舆说辐，夫妻反目)
The third line, Jiǔ Sān, speaks of division and potential conflict. The imagery of a cart’s wheel and spokes becoming disconnected symbolizes a breakdown in relationships, specifically between a husband and wife. If you are married, this line warns of the possibility of discord leading to separation or even divorce. The phrase fū qī fǎn mù (夫妻反目) highlights the tension and disharmony that can arise from misalignment, much like a wheel losing its structure and no longer moving smoothly.
The Image (象) says: “‘Fū qī fǎn mù’, bù néng zhèng shì.” (夫妻反目，不能正室也), meaning that when a husband and wife are in conflict, it is because the husband fails to properly manage the relationship with his wife. This can be interpreted as a political metaphor for high-ranking officials rebelling against the ruler, specifically referencing Guǎn Shū (管叔), the brother of Zhōu Gōng. After Wǔ Wáng’s death, Guǎn Shū tried to seize power, leading to conflict and rebellion within the early Zhōu court. This division was a significant threat to the stability of the dynasty.
The Lesser Accumulation Third Line Changing Hexagram
The third line change transforms Xiǎo Chù Guà into the 61st hexagram, Fēng Zé Zhōng Fú (风泽中孚), which emphasizes sincerity and faith. The idea of Fú (孚), or faith, signifies the importance of sincerity and trust in one’s actions. This hexagram illustrates that internal faith and trust create the foundation for external success. Just as a bird hatches from an egg on a precise, reliable schedule, so too must one’s actions be guided by internal conviction and integrity to ensure success.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Xiǎo Chù Hexagram
Liù Sì (六四): Yǒu fú, xuè qù tì chū, wú jiù. (有孚，血去惕出，无咎)
The fourth line, Liù Sì, focuses on the virtues of trustworthiness and the avoidance of harm and fear. Yǒu fú (有孚) refers to having integrity and sincerity, while xuè qù (血去) signifies distancing oneself from violent or harmful situations, and tì chū (惕出) refers to emerging from fear.
The overall message of this line is that with sincerity and integrity, one can avoid harm and release fear, leading to a fortunate outcome.
If someone receives this hexagram, they may be at a crossroads, facing a decision or task. The key advice is to act with integrity in whatever they do to prevent mistakes or harmful situations. For a leader, this advice extends to ensuring that those around them also act with honesty and integrity.
A further life lesson from this line advises:
- “Huái zhōng jū wèi fǔ míng jūn, tiān biān yuǎn xìn lù lái yíng. Lí míng mǎ zǒu xī nán qù, kū mù féng chūn dé zài róng. Dú lì jiē wú yuán, jīng yōu kǒng zhì shāng. Dàn cóng chéng shí niàn, zāi jiù zì xiāo wáng.”
This suggests that with loyalty and adherence to integrity, a leader can navigate challenges with support, and fear will dissipate through sincerity. Even in the face of potential harm, acting with sincerity can turn adversity into peace.
The Lesser Accumulation Fourth Line Changing Hexagram
When the fourth line changes, the hexagram transitions from Xiǎo Chù Guà to Qián wéi Tiān (乾为天), the 1st hexagram—Heaven. This hexagram represents the purest form of Yang energy, symbolizing strength, vitality, and boundless potential. Qián (乾) is associated with leadership, vitality, and achieving great things. It suggests that when one follows the right path with sincerity, they can achieve success, as long as they maintain a balance between strength and humility.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Xiǎo Chù Hexagram
Jiǔ Wǔ (九五): Yǒu fú luán rú, fù yǐ qí lín. (有孚挛如，富以其邻)
The fifth line, Jiǔ Wǔ, emphasizes the power of sincerity and cooperation. Luán rú (挛如) refers to being tightly bound, like a clenched fist, symbolizing the strength of unity and collaboration. Fù yǐ qí lín (富以其邻) suggests that prosperity is not solely for oneself, but should be shared with one’s neighbors.
The message here is clear: prosperity comes through sincerity and mutual support. If one is in a position of power or wealth, it is important to share the benefits with others, especially those who are close to you.
In the context of a leader, Jiǔ Wǔ represents someone in a central, authoritative position, with strong support from their people. This line stresses that leadership is about collaboration and helping others to succeed, not merely self-interest.
The Image (象) explains that the line should not only seek personal wealth but ensure that others, particularly those in the immediate circle, benefit as well. This fosters harmony and mutual growth.
For those experiencing this hexagram, the guidance is to consider the welfare of others in both business and personal life. Ensuring that others around you—especially your neighbors, family, or colleagues—also prosper will bring balance and peace. It’s important to build relationships based on mutual benefit rather than individual gain.
The Lesser Accumulation Fifth Line Changing Hexagram
When the fifth line changes, the hexagram transitions to Shān Tiān Dà Chù (山天大畜), the 26th hexagram. This hexagram consists of Shān (山, Mountain) over Tiān (天, Heaven), indicating a time for accumulation and preparation. Dà Chù (大畜), or Great Accumulation, symbolizes gathering strength for a future breakthrough.
This hexagram suggests that, after careful accumulation, one can face difficulties with resilience and confidence. The Dà Chù hexagram advocates for a patient, steady approach—gathering resources and preparing oneself for the challenges ahead, ensuring that when the time comes, one is ready to achieve success.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Xiǎo Chù Hexagram
Shàng Jiǔ (上九): Jì yǔ jì chù, shàng dé zài, fù zhēn lì. Yuè jǐ wàng, jūn zǐ zhēng, xiōng. (既雨既处，尚德载，妇贞厉。月几望，君子征，凶)
The sixth line, Shàng Jiǔ, suggests the idea of nearing completion or fulfillment but also warns of the dangers of excess. Jì yǔ jì chù (既雨既处) refers to the rainstorm that has arrived, symbolizing a period of settling, while shàng dé zài (尚德载) suggests the accumulation of virtue. Fù zhēn lì (妇贞厉) indicates that even in the face of success, one must remain vigilant to prevent dangers.
The phrase Yuè jǐ wàng (月几望) refers to the waxing moon, nearly full but still growing. This symbolizes a time when things are almost complete, but caution must be exercised as excess may lead to decline. The fū zhēn lì (妇贞厉) phrase is an indication that even as things seem to be flourishing, there is still a need for discipline and prudence.
The core message is that during times of prosperity, one should avoid complacency. A full moon may seem to mark completion, but it is soon followed by waning. Similarly, once a goal is almost achieved, excess or neglect may cause setbacks.
The Lesser Accumulation Sixth Line Changing Hexagram
When the sixth line changes, the hexagram transitions to Shuǐ Tiān Xū (水天需), the 5th hexagram. This hexagram is made up of Shuǐ (水, Water) over Tiān (天, Heaven), and it emphasizes waiting for the right moment. Xū (需) indicates that success will come, but only after careful observation and proper timing. It advises that one should not act recklessly but instead wait for favorable conditions to act.
This hexagram suggests patience and careful preparation, assuring that with the right timing, one will be able to achieve success. It echoes the previous themes of Xiǎo Chù Guà, where success follows careful accumulation and avoidance of rash actions.