#8
Holding Together (Union)
比
— Bǐ
Upper trigram: Water (Kǎn) · Lower trigram: Earth (Kūn)
Overall meaning
Hexagram Holding Together symbolizes union, solidarity, and alliance. Upper trigram is Water, lower is Earth — water seeps into earth, binding to it. This is the hexagram of sincere friendship, alliance for shared benefit, and solidarity in the collective.
Judgment text (Thoán từ)
Holding Together: good fortune. Inquire of the oracle once again — if there is sublime, enduring perseverance, no blame. Those who are not at peace come late — misfortune.
Line texts (6 lines)
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1
First Six: Hold together with sincerity — no blame. Sincerity full as an earthen vessel — at the end, more good fortune comes. Sincere relations from the start.
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2
Second Six: Hold together inwardly — perseverance brings good fortune. Bond with those close and trustworthy, keep perseverance.
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3
Third Six: Hold together with the wrong people — misfortune. Choosing the wrong partners, allying with the unworthy, brings disaster.
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4
Fourth Six: Hold together with those outside — perseverance brings good fortune. Extend relations outward, ally with the more capable.
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5
Fifth Nine: Manifest holding together — the king hunts on three sides, lets the game ahead escape — the townspeople are not on guard, good fortune. Sincere alliance, no coercion — those who come willingly endure.
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6
Top Six: Holding together has no head — misfortune. Coming late, no good beginning — the alliance fails.
Applications by topic
- Marriage
- Romance is good when both are sincere and willing. Do not coerce or rush. Lasting relationships are built on real trust.
- Career
- Suited to cooperation, joint ventures, and building networks. Find the right partners and trustworthy colleagues. Teamwork brings greater success than going it alone.
- Wealth
- Cooperative investment yields better results than solo investment. Choose reputable, sincere financial partners. Avoid alliance with the untrustworthy.
- Health
- Health improves with support from family and friends. Join group physical activities. Watch kidneys and excretory system.
- Lawsuit
- Find allies and supporters. Ally with influential people to strengthen your case. Going alone often loses.
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