How to Interpret Hexagrams: Five Steps to Understand the Meaning

Step 1: Identify the Upper and Lower Trigrams

A six-line hexagram consists of two three-line trigrams: - Lower trigram (inner trigram): Represents the inner self, the individual, or the beginning. - Upper trigram (outer trigram): Represents the external environment, circumstances, or development.

Example: In the Zhūn Hexagram (䷂), the lower trigram is Zhèn (Thunder), and the upper trigram is Kǎn (Water). Thunder beneath Water symbolizes the difficulty of new beginnings.

Step 2: Analyze the Hexagram Statement

The hexagram statement summarizes the overall meaning of the hexagram. For example, the Zhūn Hexagram states:
"Beginning, success, smoothness, and perseverance. Do not act hastily. Favorable for establishing lords."

This means: Although the general direction is favorable, it is not advisable to rush into action. Instead, it is better to lay a solid foundation.

Step 3: Analyze Each Line

The six lines are numbered from bottom to top:
Line 1 (bottom), Line 2, Line 3, Line 4, Line 5, Line 6 (top).

Each line has its own statement, which should be interpreted considering: - Proper position: A yang (solid) line in an odd-numbered position (1, 3, 5) or a yin (broken) line in an even-numbered position (2, 4, 6) is considered "in position." - Central position: Lines 2 and 5 are in the central positions and are generally favorable. - Corresponding lines: Lines 1 and 4, 2 and 5, 3 and 6 correspond to each other and may influence the interpretation.

Step 4: Observe Changing Lines

A changing line is an old yang (extreme yang turning into yin) or an old yin (extreme yin turning into yang). It represents a turning point in the situation. The statement of the changing line is often key to interpreting the hexagram.

Step 5: Synthesize the Interpretation

Combine the hexagram image, hexagram statement, line statements, and changing lines to form a comprehensive analysis: 1. Current situation (original hexagram) 2. Development trend (changing hexagram) 3. Key turning point (changing line) 4. Final outcome (resulting hexagram)

Example Demonstration

If asking about career and obtaining the Zhūn Hexagram (䷂) changing to the Bǐ Hexagram (䷇): - Original hexagram (Zhūn): Career is in its early stages, full of challenges. - Changing line (Line 1): "Hesitant and cautious. Favorable to remain steadfast. Favorable for establishing lords." - Resulting hexagram (Bǐ): Unity and cooperation, gaining support. - Conclusion: Although the beginning is difficult, by adhering to the right path, one will eventually receive help from influential people.