Kien indicates what may be done in the time of difficulty and peril. Advantage will be found in firm correctness, and in seeing the great man. The subject of the hexagram should not try to take the initiative in the movement.
The first SIX, divided, shows (the subject of the line) advancing and encountering the difficulty (of the position). His own person (however) will be free from error, but his associates will be exposed to peril.
The second SIX, divided, shows the minister of the king struggling with the difficulty (of the state), and not immediately concerned about his own person. His progress will be advantageous.
The third NINE, undivided, shows (its subject) advancing and encountering the difficulty. If he halt in his progress and return (to his former associates), there will be advantage.
The fourth SIX, divided, shows (its subject) advancing and encountering the difficulty. Any movement forward on his part will lead to distress. There will be advantage in his acting as was done by the minister of the king.
The fifth NINE, undivided, shows the subject of the line struggling with the difficulty. Advantage will be found in his great firmness and correctness. All his movements, which are not to take the initiative, but to follow, will be advantageous.
The topmost SIX, divided, shows (the subject of the line) going forward, and (only) increasing the difficulty. There will be great evil. (The course indicated) will be advantageous, (only) if he retire and be quiet. © 2026 I-Ching Divination. All rights reserved.