Song, six at the beginningHexagram 6, line 1 · Song (Conflict) · changing to 10
The line
In plain wordsYou don't let this dispute drag on. There will be a few words exchanged, but in the end there is good fortune.
The Image commentary on this line
不永所事，訟不可長也。雖小有言，其辯明也。
"Not dragging the matter out": a conflict must not be prolonged. Though "there is a little talk", the argument is made clear.
The small Image commentary is the earliest explanation of the line texts. It usually explains a line from its position: where it stands, whether it holds the center, and which line answers it.
Verdict
吉Favorable. This text describes a good outcome. Act the way it says and the matter can succeed. The promise has a condition: keep to the right course.
How to read good fortune, misfortune, regret, humiliation and no blame →
Asking about work, love or money
- Work
- A disagreement has just surfaced. Say your piece clearly and then stop; don't dig in and drag it out. There will be a few sharp words, but once things are made clear, it is good.
- Love
- An argument has just started. Once you have made yourself clear, stop; don't let a small thing turn into a long cold war. A few cross words don't matter; once it is cleared up, let it pass.
- Money
- Something unpleasant has just come up over money. Once the accounts are made clear, close the matter; don't stay tangled up with anyone over a little money. Some unkind words may be said, but once it is all worked out, you are fine.
This is how to read it when this is the only changing line. With several changing lines, first see which text governs; for the hexagram as a whole, see Song.
Line position
A yin line in a yang place: it is not in its proper place. Its partner is the fourth line, which is its opposite, so the two answer each other.
First place: the beginning of the matter. Low position, little power. Begin carefully.
When you get this line
If this is the only changing line in your cast (three inscribed sides, old yin), this line is your answer. The primary hexagram is Song (Conflict); when this line changes it becomes Lü (Treading): hexagram 6 changing to 10.
Which text to read with several changing lines →
Resulting hexagram · Lü (Treading)
There is risk in this, but if you walk carefully and by the rules, you can get through safely.