| The present is embodied in Hexagram 6 - Sung (Conflict): Though there is sincerity in one's contention, he will yet meet with opposition and obstruction. If he cherish an apprehensive caution, there will be good fortune. If he prosecute the contention to the bitter end, there will be evil. It will be advantageous to see the great man. It will not be advantageous to cross the great stream. |
| The first (bottommost) line, divided, shows its subject not perpetuating the matter about which the contention is. He will suffer the small injury of being spoken against, but the end will be fortunate. |
| The second line, undivided, shows its subject unequal to the contention. If he retire and keep concealed where the inhabitants of his city are only three hundred families, he will fall into no mistake. |
| The third line, divided, shows its subject keeping in the old place assigned for his support, and firmly correct. Perilous as the position is, there will be good fortune in the end. Should he perchance engage in the king's business, he will not claim the merit of achievement. |
| The situation is shifting, and Yang (the active masculine force) is gaining ground. |
| The future is embodied in Hexagram 13 - T'ung Jen (Fellowship with Men): The union of me appears here in the remote districts of the country, indicating progress and success. It will be advantageous to cross the great stream. It will be advantageous to maintain the firm correctness of the superior man. |
 | The things most apparent, those above and in front, are embodied by the upper trigram Chi'en (Heaven), which represents strength and creativity. |
 | The things least apparent, those below and behind, are embodied by the lower trigram K'an (Water), which is transforming into Li (Fire). As part of this process, danger and the unknown are giving way to brightness and warmth. |
