䷋ Obstruction pǐ
Core Meaning
The Pi hexagram is the opposite of the Tai hexagram, symbolizing non-intercourse between heaven and earth, stagnation, and obstruction. Inner yin and outer yang, with inferior people inside and superior people outside, indicating the rise of inferior people and the decline of superior people. At this time, the environment is harsh, and a superior person should economize virtue to avoid difficulties, bide their time, and not covet glory or wealth.
The Judgment
Obstruction means not being hindered by people. It is not beneficial for a gentleman to persist. The great departs, the small arrives.
Interpretation:
The Pi hexagram symbolizes blockage and obstruction. Inferior people are gaining power, which is not favorable for a gentleman to uphold the right path. The great departs, the small arrives.
The Image
Heaven and Earth do not connect; this is Obstruction. The superior person economizes on virtue to avoid difficulties and does not seek glory through emolument.
Structure
Heaven above, Earth below. Heaven and Earth do not intersect. The yang of Heaven continues to rise, the yin of Earth continues to descend. Yin and Yang do not meet, and all things are blocked.
The Lines
The six lines are read from bottom to top, representing the progression from the foundation to the culmination.
Initial six: Pulling up marsh grass by its roots, each with its kind. Persistence brings good fortune and success.
Six in the second place: Enveloping and bearing. Good fortune for inferior people, but obstruction and success for superior people.
Six in the third place: Encompassing shame.
Nine in the fourth place: There is a command, no blame. Neighbors share the blessing.
Nine in the fifth place: Stopping obstruction. Good fortune for the superior person. Alarmed about perishing, alarmed about perishing, like being tied to a cluster of mulberry leaves.
Top nine: The obstruction inclines. First obstruction, then joy.
Modern Interpretation
💼 Career & Business
Career encounters difficulties, progress is blocked. 'The great departs, the small arrives' means much effort for little gain. 'Do not seek glory through emolument' reminds one not to covet immediate benefits. The ninth five 'stopping obstruction' indicates the need to cease erroneous practices. 'Alarmed about perishing, alarmed about perishing, like being tied to a cluster of mulberry leaves' warns one to be prepared for danger in times of peace, but the top nine 'the obstruction inclines, first obstruction, then joy' foreshadows that difficulties will eventually pass.
❤️ Relationships
Relationships are in a deadlock, communication is poor. 'Heaven and Earth do not connect' symbolizes the inability of both parties to communicate. 'Encompassing shame' warns that inappropriate behavior will bring humiliation. At this time, one should 'economize on virtue to avoid difficulties', restrain oneself, and give each other space. 'First obstruction, then joy' means that persistence will lead to a turning point.
🎯 Decision Making
The current situation is unfavorable, and major actions are not advisable. 'Not beneficial for a gentleman to persist' means that even upholding the right path may not yield results. One should, like a superior person, 'economize on virtue to avoid difficulties', preserve strength, and wait for the right moment. Remember 'the obstruction inclines'; when blockage reaches its extreme, prosperity begins, and darkness will eventually pass.
⚠️ Warning & Caution
The greatest danger is not recognizing the situation. 'Good fortune for inferior people, but obstruction and success for superior people' indicates that inferior people are gaining power at this time. Superior people must not conspire with them; 'encompassing shame' will bring disgrace upon oneself. One must understand 'alarmed about perishing, alarmed about perishing, like being tied to a cluster of mulberry leaves', and always be vigilant.
Applicable Scenarios
The Obstruction hexagram can provide guidance and inspiration when you encounter the following situations:
Historical Context & Cultural Heritage
The time Qu Yuan encountered was precisely that of the Pi hexagram. King Huai of Chu was muddle-headed, and inferior people were in power, signifying 'Heaven and Earth do not connect.' Qu Yuan, despite his unwavering loyalty, was exiled, which is 'the great departs, the small arrives.' However, he 'economized on virtue to avoid difficulties,' maintained his noble character, and did not associate with inferior people. Although he 'encompassed shame' and suffered humiliation, he earned the admiration of future generations. This confirms 'the obstruction inclines, first obstruction, then joy': the end of obstruction is the beginning of prosperity.
Related Hexagrams
Based on the connections between hexagrams, the following are also worth exploring:
Deepen Your Understanding
This interpretation provides a foundational understanding of the Obstruction hexagram. For a deeper comprehension, consider:
- • Reading commentaries from classical scholars and modern interpreters
- • Studying the hexagram's position within the overall sequence of the 64 hexagrams
- • Reflecting on how its wisdom applies to your current life situation
- • Exploring the changing lines and their resulting hexagrams in divination
Authoritative Resources
Want to explore the I Ching more deeply? These authoritative resources provide scholarly perspectives: