Hexagram 38
Be deviant, disobey, seek common ground while reserving differences
The wisdom of the Kui hexagram is that it recognizes that "difference" is the normal state of the world. It teaches us not to be afraid of opposition, but to learn to communicate in opposition, to find consensus in differences, and ultimately to build a deeper and more stable "harmony" based on "differences."
Trigram Structure
䷥, Li above, Dui below
Palace：兌
Key Themes
Be deviant, disobey, seek common ground while reserving differences
The wisdom of the Kui hexagram is that it recognizes that "difference" is the normal state of the world. It teaches us not to be afraid of opposition, but to learn to communicate in opposition, to find consensus in differences, and ultimately to build a deeper and more stable "harmony" based on "differences."
Kui: Small things are auspicious.
The sun's reflection in water (seemingly together, but actually opposite above and below), fire and water incompatible.
A pair of mismatched shoes, arrows pointing in opposite directions, images inside and outside a mirror.
The wisdom of the Kui hexagram is that it recognizes that "difference" is the normal state of the world. It teaches us not to be afraid of opposition, but to learn to communicate in opposition, to find consensus in differences, and ultimately to build a deeper and more stable "harmony" based on "differences."
Regret death. If a horse is lost, don't drive it away, it will recover on its own. If you see an evil person, there is no blame.
Guidance
Regret disappears. A lost horse need not be sought; it will return on its own.
Modern Insight
This is the early stage of opposition. Things seem unfavorable, but do not rush to conclusions. Let things develop; many misunderstandings will naturally clear up. The "evil person" you think you see may just have a different position.
If you meet the master in an alley, there is no blame.
Guidance
Meeting the master in an alley; no fault.
Modern Insight
Even in an environment full of contradictions, you may still unexpectedly meet someone who can understand and support you. This unexpected, sincere encounter is the key to resolving opposition.
When you see the carriage dragging, the oxen is pulling, the people and the sky are shaking. There is no beginning and no end.
Guidance
In a difficult situation; the cart is pulled, the ox is stopped; bitterness first, sweetness later.
Modern Insight
You are in the most intense opposition and obstruction, caught in a dilemma, suffering humiliation. But this line gives you hope: as long as you can persist and get through this most difficult period, things will eventually turn around.
Sui Gu, met Yuan Fu. Jiaofu, Li Wujiu.
Guidance
Isolated and helpless, but meeting like-minded people; interacting with sincerity brings no fault.
Modern Insight
When isolated and helpless, finding like-minded partners is the only way out. Even if only one person understands you, the sincere trust and cooperation between you can help you stand undefeated in a hostile environment.
Regret death. Juezong bites the skin, what's the blame?
Guidance
Regret disappears. Clan members bite their own skin; metaphor for internal unity; no fault.
Modern Insight
This is when contradictions begin to truly resolve. You and the opposing party have deep, heart-to-heart communication and reached true reconciliation. Past estrangements vanish, and the relationship returns to harmony.
Gui Gu saw a pig carrying Tu and a cart carrying ghosts. Stretch the arc first, then explain the arc. Bandits, marriage. If you go, it will be lucky if it rains.
Guidance
Isolated and helpless, suspicious; first thinking they are evil, later knowing they are relatives.
Modern Insight
This is the peak of misunderstanding. You imagine the other party as extremely ugly and terrible, full of hostility. But when you let down your guard, you discover it was all your suspicion. This reminds us that the greatest opposition often comes from our inner prejudice. When misunderstandings are cleared, opposition transforms into harmony.
