ChineseStudy

12. Pi | Obstruction

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English translation

Pi / Obstruction: Obstruction indicates misalignment with true people; it is not beneficial for a noble person to insist on uprightness. Great energies move out while small energies move in.

This is the judgment of Pi (Obstruction), setting the overall situation and guiding principle for the whole hexagram. “constancy” means holding to what is correct over time.

First Six: Uproot the growth and hold it together at its source; uprightness brings good fortune and smooth passage.

The first line is the lowest position, where a situation is just beginning and its strength is still forming. “constancy” means holding to what is correct over time; “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction.

Second Six: To carry and hold gives fortune for lesser people, while it is unfavorable to the great. In spite of that, the situation is still broadly successful.

The second line often suggests a central and emerging position: no longer hidden, but not yet in command. “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction.

Third Six: Covering shame is indicated.

The third line stands at the end of the lower trigram, where effort and pressure increase and caution becomes important. The image should be read as a concrete way of describing the situation before choosing how to act.

Fourth Nine: With proper mandate there is no blame; blessing comes to those properly separated.

The fourth line enters the upper trigram and marks a threshold between holding back and advancing. “no blame” means avoiding fault, not necessarily winning great success.

Fifth Nine: When obstruction is relieved, it is auspicious for a superior person. What seems to be lost must be bound and held fast.

The fifth line is near the honored position, where influence can be exercised if power remains aligned with what is right. “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction.

Top Nine: Obstruction topples: first there is blockage, then joy.

The top line is the end of the hexagram's movement, often warning about excess, culmination, or the need to change course. The image should be read as a concrete way of describing the situation before choosing how to act.

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