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Hexagram 6: Conflict

By James Byrd

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I. The Oracle

A. Theme of Conflict
Hexagram Six represents Conflict—a time when forward movement is halted by opposing forces. Its image is Heaven above, Water below: expansiveness meeting danger. Like a driver facing water on the road, traction is lost and progress becomes risky.

• Forcing matters now leads to misfortune, unless the purpose is to consult the Great Man (such as a doctor or wise advisor).

• Travel is not favored at this time. To “cross the great water” would bring setbacks.

• Caution, patience, and careful observation are the only ways to move wisely.

B. The Image

• Heaven and water go their opposite ways—expansion versus danger.

• Conflict is like the rabbit in the briar patch: struggling only increases entanglement.

• The counsel: seek wisdom, not confrontation.

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II. My Interpretation

Conflict arises in human relationships when speech becomes weaponized—defiling words often escalate into physical action and violations of space. This hexagram is a warning against such escalation.

• Conflict on the road: Over years of observation, this hexagram often coincides with increased accidents. If travel is unavoidable, go cautiously and return directly.

• Do not force matters: Attempts to “push through” create disorder. Resolution lies in patience and restraint.

• Return to The Way: Wait for the Will of Heaven. Only then can progress align “As Above, so Below.”

Today’s image is Heaven over Water—Conflict. Imagine standing at the seashore: the vast ocean is uncrossable, and somewhere beneath lurks the Great White. The wise course is to pause, observe, and wait for the right time.

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III. References

• Blofield, John (1965). I Ching: The Book of Change

• Byrd, James (2018). The Future

• Huang, Kerson, & Rosemary (1987). I Ching

• Karcher, S. & Ritesema, R. (1995). I Ching: The Classic Chinese Oracle of Change

• Legge, James (2012). The I Ching: The Book of Changes

• Reifler, S. (1974). I Ching: The World’s Oldest and Most Revered System of Fortune Telling

• Van Over, R. (1971). I Ching

• Wilhelm, R. & Baynes, C.F. (1967). The I Ching, or, Book of Changes

• Wilhelm, Hellmut & Richard Wilhelm (1995). Understanding the I Ching

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