Transformation · lines 1, 5, and 6

Conflict becomes A Subordinate Role

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Thunder over the lake: the first, fifth and top lines move, and the dispute of 6 Conflict settles into a question of rank. With three lines moving, both judgments share the weight. The first says force won't solve this; cleverness, acceptance that nothing can be resolved yet, and wise counsel are the way out.

54 A Subordinate Role, the resulting hexagram, says you have to take second place for now; personal initiative tends to fail. Recognizing this and acting in keeping with it is what you can do until your position improves. Combined, the conflict may be with someone who has more say than you, and fighting it head-on won't work. Accept the role for the time being. Watch for pushing back in ways that only harden your position.

What to read, in order

Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.

  1. 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.

  2. The judgment of 54 A Subordinate Role

    You're in a situation where you have to take second place to others; any personal initiative will lead to failure. Recognizing the moment and acting in keeping with it is all you can do until things change and you're in a better position.

    Setting out brings misfortune. Nothing is favorable.

  3. 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.

  4. Line 5 of 6 Conflict

    If you've acted rightly, whoever has to make the decisions that involve you will decide in your favor.

    Lawsuit. Great good fortune.

  5. 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 trigrams

Below Water Lake
Above Heaven Thunder

The way back

54 A Subordinate Role → 6 Conflict
lines 1, 5, 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.

Toss the coins