Transformation · lines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6
Conflict becomes After the End
What this change means
Water stands above fire: five lines move, all but the fifth, and the reading rests on that single still line of 63 After the End. It says that when what you do is heartfelt and real, even a small act can produce a large effect.
Here, the fifth line of 6 Conflict, the one that promises a fair verdict to those who've acted rightly, is the one that holds. So the dispute can end well, not through a grand gesture but through something small and sincere: an honest word, a genuine apology, a simple act of good faith. Don't overplay it. And remember the wider warning of this hexagram: success can pass, and a slowdown may follow. Watch for big displays where a small true gesture would do.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 5 of 63 After the End, which stays still
If your actions come from the heart and are genuine, a small action can bring great results.
The eastern neighbor slaughters an ox; it is not worth the simple offering of the western neighbor, who truly receives the blessing.
- The judgment of 6 Conflict
A conflict is arising that can't be solved by action; cleverness works better than force. Recognizing that you can't resolve anything right now, letting events take their course, and seeking the advice of someone wise in this area will help you get out of the conflict.
There is sincere trust, but it is blocked. Caution: stopping halfway brings good fortune; going all the way to the end, misfortune. It is favorable to see the great person. It is not favorable to cross the great river.
- Line 1 of 6 Conflict
Even if the situation invites gossip, holding firm is your best move.
Not dragging the matter out. A few words against; in the end, good fortune.
- Line 2 of 6 Conflict
Withdrawing in time, even if it looks cowardly, is the best move right now.
Unable to win the lawsuit. Turning back, slipping away; the people of the town, three hundred households, come to no harm.
- Line 3 of 6 Conflict
What you've gained honestly can't be taken from you. Even if gossip comes up, don't be intimidated; hold firm.
Feeding on old virtue. Constancy is in danger; in the end, good fortune. If it serves in the king's affairs, no achievement of its own.
- Line 4 of 6 Conflict
Accepting the adverse conditions of this moment without fighting them, and staying flexible, will lead you to success in the middle of difficulties.
Unable to win the lawsuit. Turning back, accepting the decree, changing. Calm constancy brings good fortune.
- Line 6 of 6 Conflict
Insisting on being right at this moment will only make you lose.
Perhaps a belt of honor is bestowed; before the morning is out, it is stripped away three times.
- The judgment of 63 After the End
You're in a situation where you'll have a passing success: everything seems to be in your favor, and at the end comes a period of stagnation. If you prepare for it ahead of time, you'll be able to soften its effects.
Success in small things. Constancy is favorable. At first, good fortune; in the end, disorder.
The trigrams
The way back
63 After the End → 6 Conflictlines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6
Other transformations of Conflict
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.