Transformation · lines 1, 2, and 6

A Subordinate Role becomes Advance

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Light comes out over the earth: the first, second and top lines move, and the figure becomes Fire over Earth. With three lines changing, both judgments weigh equally. A Subordinate Role says this is a time for second place, where personal initiatives tend to fail. 35 Advance describes a time of growth, when important people offer help and doors open for those who ask. These seem opposed, yet they connect. The advance comes to you through others, not through your own push. Ask for what you need; accept the favors offered. Let your talents be seen within your role, and contribute to others' growth in return. Progress here is real, but it flows through relationships with those above you. Graceful acceptance of help can carry you further than independent striving.

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 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.

  2. The judgment of 35 Advance

    A time of growth and achievement is coming, and you should make the most of it. You'll receive help and favors from important people. If you need something, don't hesitate to ask: doors will open for you. Your talents are recognized, and just as you receive help, it's also a time to contribute to the growth and betterment of others.

    The lord of Kang is granted horses in great numbers; in a single day he is received three times.

  3. Line 1 of 54 A Subordinate Role

    If you know how to hold your subordinate place and stay in the background, helping from there however you can without seeking the spotlight, things will go well.

    The young woman marries as a second wife. The lame can walk. Setting out brings good fortune.

  4. Line 2 of 54 A Subordinate Role

    Even if the person you answer to ignores you, keep your position and your loyalty: this will show your greatness.

    The one-eyed can see. The constancy of the one who lives apart is favorable.

  5. Line 6 of 54 A Subordinate Role

    Holding a subordinate position with resentment or unease only makes you lose the rewards you'd find if you did it wholeheartedly.

    The woman holds the basket, and there is nothing in it; the man cuts the sheep, and there is no blood. Nothing is favorable.

The trigrams

Below Lake Earth
Above Thunder Fire

The way back

35 Advance → 54 A Subordinate Role
lines 1, 2, and 6

Other transformations of A Subordinate Role

Make your own cast

The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.

Toss the coins