Above; wind, gentleness, penetration
Below; heaven, the creative

This hexagram represents the ability, even of the weak to restrain and impede. The five strong yang lines are held in check by the yin line in the fourth place. This is the position of the Minister. The concept of exercising power by yielding is one that has been developed by Taoists who were also only too aware of the weakness inherent in a show of strength.

Success lies in the power of the weak. Dense clouds gather, but there is no rain from the western borders.
This hexagram reflects the situation in China at the time when King Wen, who came from the western marches of the kingdom, was at the court of the ruling tyrant, Ti-Hsin. The moment for overthrowing the tyrant had not yet come, and Wen could only keep the more powerful man in check by means of friendly persuasion.

Hsiao Chu combines the symbols of strength and flexibility. The weak line in the fourth position occupies its proper place, and the strong lines above and below it show that there will be progress and success. At the same time freedom is conferred upon the subjects. ‘Dense clouds but no rain’ indicates a strong forward movement, but a movement that has not yet reached its culmination.

The wind drives across the sky, crowding the clouds together. The Superior Man, accordingly, reveals his virtuous qualities to all.

Line 1

How could there be reproach In returning to the true way?
Success lies in this.

The ‘true way’ is here the Tao: not only the path of correctness, but the way in which one finds his path. The Superior Man follows the path on which he can advance or retreat as he wishes. It is wise and sensible to avoid obtaining anything by force, and so good fortune must result.

Line 2

Persuaded to retrace his steps,
he finds success.

He who can accept that the best course is to retreat in the face of inauspicious events will bring good fortune in the end, but he does not endanger himself unnecessarily.

Line 3

The spokes of the wagon wheel are broken,
husband and wife stand together glowering at
Each other.

In trying to force a way ahead in spite of the obstacles in the way, the man suffered a serious accident. He has ignored the advice of the weaker party. Conditions beyond his control have proved him wrong. But the result is to no-one’s advantage, and, quarreling with his companion, he sacrifices his dignity.

Line 4

If he shows confidence,
fear and bloodshed are avoided.
there is no reproach.

Confident that he is pursuing the correct course, the wise man, even though he may appear to give way in the face of opposition, steers a way that avoids catastrophe. Disinterested truth will overcome all obstacles, and the end will be achieved.

Line 5

Sincerity and loyalty
Make for good neighbours.

In the weaker person loyalty means devotion. In the stronger person it breeds trust. Both result in stronger ties. Each member of the partnership complements the other. The outcome is success for both.

Line 6

The rains come and there is rest at last
For he has followed his way.
But persistence puts the women in danger,
For the moon is nearly full,
And if the Superior Man goes forth
There is misfortune.

The wind, continually driving the clouds together, finally brings rain. But this success has been achieved by cautious advance, not precipitate action. It is not wise to pursue such actions further. The moon represents the darker powers. When it reaches fullness it is already on the wane. One must be content with what has already been attained.

© 1979 Neil Powell

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