Transformation · lines 3, 4, and 5
Loss, Then Gain becomes Conflict
What this change means
Heaven and water move in opposite directions after the third, fourth and fifth lines change. Three lines move, so the reading balances two judgments. The starting hexagram calls for setting right what's been spoiled, through admission, correction and patience. 6 Conflict describes a dispute that can't be solved by action, where cleverness works better than force, and where a wise adviser can help you find the way out. The meeting point is caution. Trying to fix the damage may bring you into conflict with others, and pushing harder won't resolve it now. Accept that some things can't be settled yet. Let events run their course, seek counsel from someone who knows this area, and think through the beginning of any new step. Repair that starts a quarrel isn't repair. Choose the quieter path.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- The judgment of 18 Loss, Then Gain
You've made mistakes that have brought you into decline; still, admitting it and making the corrections needed will lead you back to success. Take time to reflect on what caused the loss and, once you've acted, give success time to arrive.
Great success. It is favorable to cross the great river. Three days before the first day, three days after the first day.
- 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 3 of 18 Loss, Then Gain
Acting too rigidly in the past has led you to loss, but holding on to that rigidity to fix it won't help either.
Setting right what the father spoiled. A little regret; no great fault.
- Line 4 of 18 Loss, Then Gain
If you show a weak character and keep letting stronger personalities lead you, you won't succeed.
Indulging what the father spoiled. Going on: distress.
- Line 5 of 18 Loss, Then Gain
If you're aware of your weaknesses and vulnerable spots and look for helpers to support you there, you'll gain success and recognition.
Setting right what the father spoiled. It wins praise.
The trigrams
The way back
6 Conflict → 18 Loss, Then Gainlines 3, 4, and 5
Other transformations of Loss, Then Gain
- 27Nourishmentlines 1, 2, and 3
- 30The Flamelines 1, 2, and 4
- 38Oppositeslines 1, 3, and 4
- 35Advancelines 2, 3, and 4
- 37The Tribelines 1, 2, and 5
- 61Inner Integritylines 1, 3, and 5
- 20Observinglines 2, 3, and 5
- 1Activitylines 1, 4, and 5
- 33Leaving Behindlines 2, 4, and 5
- 36Darknesslines 1, 2, and 6
- 19Fleeting Successlines 1, 3, and 6
- 2Passivitylines 2, 3, and 6
- 34Great Manifestationlines 1, 4, and 6
- 62Success in Small Matterslines 2, 4, and 6
- 40Clearing Obstacleslines 3, 4, and 6
- 5Inactionlines 1, 5, and 6
- 39Held Backlines 2, 5, and 6
- 29Waterlines 3, 5, and 6
- 28Excesseslines 4, 5, and 6
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.