Yi Jing · Chinese tarot
Solidarity
Hexagram 8 of the Yi Jing · 比 Bǐ
The figure
Water above Earth: water hugging the ground, filling hollows and binding. The image of union, of what holds together.
What this figure illuminates
Solidarity lights up the question of alliance: whom to travel with, around what center to gather. True union calls for mutual sincerity, not only shared interest.
For a decision, the figure invites you to look at the bonds: “is this the right time to join, and does this center — this person, this project — deserve my commitment?”.
The classical text
The Judgment
Union brings good fortune. Look honestly into yourself: is your constancy great and firm enough to be joined? Those still uneasy will draw near — but for the one who comes too late, misfortune.
The Image
Water lies close upon the earth, holding to it everywhere. Seeing this, the wise founders bound the many together and kept faith with those who led them.
The Six Lines
- First line
Draw near with sincerity, and there is no error. A heart truly full brings good fortune from unlooked-for places.
- Second line
The bond forms from within, freely and sincerely. Hold firm and correct: good fortune.
- Third line
You seek to bind yourself to those you should not join. Choose your company with more care.
- Fourth line
Turn openly toward the worthy one above you. Firm and correct: good fortune.
- Fifth line
Union in the open, without coercion — like the royal hunt that leaves one side free, letting go what will not stay. Good fortune.
- Sixth line
You seek to join at the end, having made no beginning. Without that first step, misfortune.
Daoa's wording, written after the classical reference translations, now in the public domain: James Legge (1882) and Charles de Harlez (1889).
A question to keep
To whom, or to what, is it right to bind yourself now?
Draw this figure for your question
Ask your question and do a free I Ching reading online, then receive a reading tied to your situation.
To go further, Daoa is also an iPhone, iPad & Android app.
Download on the App StoreDownload on Google PlayOr do a free Chinese tarot reading online →