Hexagram Six—The Struggle to Prove Oneself Right Although one sincerely believes their position is correct, it will be difficult to prove. Fighting to the finish will only bring unhappiness and spoil important relationships. Meeting with those who disagree, knowing it may only be the first step, may eventually lead to vindication. The first line, yin, shows one who knows when to stop arguing. Some may criticize such a person, but this attitude shows respect. The second line, yang, shows its subject defeated in an argument. It is wise to return to a place of peace, to become centered, and put the struggle out of one's mind. The third line, yin, shows a person who has many accomplishments on the record. The recent setback seems unlucky, but no harm will come from it. One should act without being attached to the results. The fourth line, yang, shows one who has lost an argument, even if the trial was unfair. The advice is to accept the injustice honorably, while remaining steady. Take steps to prevent the same situation from happening again. The fifth line, yang, shows that when the facts clearly point in the subject's favor, disputes are won quickly and easily. The sixth line, yang, shows the subject may win an argument, and be presented with the belt of honor. The honor may be won three times and taken away three times, since winning does not necessarily earn people's respect. Hexagram Six Commentary This hexagram speaks about arguments and debate, including lawsuits. Instead of bashing people with truth, it is better to take a gradual and professional approach so the subject can win in the long term. It's necessary to win people's hearts, not just the official prize of winning a debate. The first line, yin, shows a person who knows when to stop fighting. Through awareness of good timing, this person will succeed in the long run. The second line, yang, shows a person defeated in an argument. Instead of becoming angry, looking for revenge, this person goes to a peaceful place to regain balance. It's correct to put the struggle aside for a time. The third line, yin, shows an accomplished person who is not attached to the results, therefore has the ability to accept setbacks and remain enthusiastic. The fourth line, yang, shows a person who faces injustice, who remains steady. Instead of reacting with anger, the person takes steps to prevent such injustice from happening again. The fifth line, yang, shows a situation where the truth is so clearly on the subject's side, they will win quickly and easily. The sixth line, yang, shows a less clear victory. The subject can win the prize, in this case an official belt of honor, but it can just as easily be lost, then won again. In a close contest, a person may win officially, but winning does not necessarily mean winning people's respect. To the reader: Most of the hexagrams have at least one line that predicts bad results, but that does NOT mean you are fated to that result. The hexagrams illustrate different attitudes, so study the actions and reactions to learn the attitudes that will lead to better outcomes. The I Ching teaches you to flow with changes and create positive change from the inside through conscious living. Your future is in your hands. Consult the I Ching for ideas that lead to clear thinking and positive mental attitude. Reading the I Ching helps you take the time to reflect on your attitudes and ideas. Continue asking until you feel positive about your course. Click here for another hexagram. A note about this interpretation of the I Ching: Nori Muster wrote this version of the I Ching in 1994 and put it online at Surrealist.org in 2000. It is also available at Amazon: e-book paperback