Transformation · lines 2 and 6
A Subordinate Role becomes Biting
What this change means
Thunder below and Fire above: the top and second lines move, with the top in the lead. The top line says that resentful service brings nothing, an empty basket. The second asks for loyalty even if the one above ignores you. The resulting hexagram, 21 Biting, calls for firm, decisive action to overcome obstacles, and if necessary, setting clear limits. That adds an important nuance. Loyalty doesn't mean accepting everything. If something unjust is in the way, bite through it: address it directly and energetically, without bitterness. Then return to your post with your heart in it. The combination asks you to drop resentment entirely, keep faith with your role, and still have the courage to confront what is wrong. That way, the basket can hold something real.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- The judgment of 21 Biting
It's a time for firm, decisive action to overcome obstacles, even legal action if needed. Success is within reach if you act with energy and set limits. Don't be afraid: act.
Success. It is favorable to bring things to judgment.
The trigrams
The way back
21 Biting → 54 A Subordinate Rolelines 2 and 6
Other transformations of A Subordinate Role
- 16Passionlines 1 and 2
- 32What Lastslines 1 and 3
- 55Abundancelines 2 and 3
- 7The Armylines 1 and 4
- 24Coming Backlines 2 and 4
- 11Well-Beinglines 3 and 4
- 47Overwhelmedlines 1 and 5
- 17Adaptinglines 2 and 5
- 43Overflowinglines 3 and 5
- 60Thriftlines 4 and 5
- 64Transitionlines 1 and 6
- 14Wealthlines 3 and 6
- 41Decreaselines 4 and 6
- 10Treading Carefullylines 5 and 6
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.