Basic Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 比 (Bǐ) |
| English Name | Holding Together / Union |
| Trigrams | Water over Earth (坎上坤下) |
| Number | 8 of 64 |
The Text (Yijing Classic)
Judgment (卦辞 Guàcí)
Holding Together brings good fortune. Inquire of the oracle once again whether you possess sublimity, constancy, and perseverance; then there is no blame. Those who are uncertain gradually join. Whoever comes too late meets with misfortune.
The Image (象辞 Xiàngcí)
On the earth is water: the image of Holding Together. Thus the kings of antiquity bestowed the different states as fiefs and cultivated friendly relations with the feudal lords.
The Six Lines (爻辞 Yáocí)
| Line | Position | Text | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 初六 | Bottom | Hold to him in truth and loyalty; this is without blame. Truth, like a full earthen bowl. Good fortune comes from without. | Favorable outcome; stay the course |
| 六二 | 2nd | Hold to him inwardly. Perseverance brings good fortune. | Favorable outcome; stay the course |
| 六三 | 3rd | You hold together with the wrong people. | Reflect carefully on the situation before acting |
| 六四 | 4th | Hold to him outwardly also. Perseverance brings good fortune. | Favorable outcome; stay the course |
| 九五 | 5th | Manifestation of holding together. The king uses beaters on three sides only. Good fortune. | Favorable outcome; stay the course |
| 上六 | Top | He finds no head for holding together. Misfortune. | Unfavorable; exercise caution and restraint |
Core Meanings
Essence (本质)
- Unity and alliance based on mutual trust and sincerity
- Upper trigram Water (deep and flowing) over lower trigram Earth (receptive and nurturing)
- Embodies the qualities of unity, alliance, cooperation and loyalty, support, trust
Keywords
UnityAllianceCooperationLoyaltySupportTrust
Divination & Prediction
★★★★☆Auspicious
| Aspect | Prediction |
|---|---|
| Overall | Favorable conditions ahead. Unity and alliance based on mutual trust and sincerity Channel the energy of unity and alliance for maximum benefit. |
| Timing | Conditions favor action now. Move forward with confidence. |
| Challenge | Maintain focus on cooperation to avoid complacency in favorable times. |
Applications in Life
Business & Career
In business, this hexagram counsels unity and alliance. The Water trigram above suggests deep and flowing energy in your outer dealings, while the Earth trigram below points to receptive and nurturing foundations. Conditions favor bold moves and expansion.
Health & Wellness
Focus on kidneys and ears and stomach and digestion. Your vitality is strong — channel it through regular exercise and disciplined routines.
Relationships
In relationships, embody unity and alliance. Openness and confidence strengthen bonds. Take initiative in resolving issues.
Education & Growth
For learning, this hexagram emphasizes cooperation and loyalty. Excellent conditions for mastery. Pursue ambitious studies.
Practical Wisdom
Do
- Cultivate unity in all your actions
- Practice alliance consistently
- Embrace cooperation as your guiding principle
- Develop loyalty through daily practice
Don’t
- Neglect the importance of support
- Abandon trust under pressure
- Act impulsively without considering consequences
Comparative Hexagrams
| Hexagram | Relationship |
|---|---|
| 7. Shī (师) | The Army — organized force vs voluntary union |
| 13. Tóng Rén (同人) | Fellowship — community among equals |
| 45. Cuì (萃) | Gathering Together — assembly around a leader |
Sample Reading Dialogue
Querent: “Should I join this professional association?”
You received Hexagram 8, Holding Together. The judgment says: 'Holding Together brings good fortune. Inquire of the oracle once again whether y...' Unity and alliance based on mutual trust and sincerity This is a favorable sign. The energy of unity supports your intention. Move forward with cooperation, but remain mindful of proper timing.