Hexagram 08
PiHolding Together
Water (Kan) · Earth (Kun)
The image
On the earth is water: The image of HOLDING TOGETHER. Thus the kings of antiquity Bestowed the different states as fiefs And cultivated friendly relations With the feudal lords.
This hexagram in one line
The waters on the surface of the earth flow together wherever they can, as for example in the ocean, where all the rivers come together. Symbolically this connotes holding together and the laws that regulate it. The same idea is suggested by the fact that all the lines of the hexagram except the fifth, the place of the ruler, are yielding. The yielding lines hold together because they are influenced by a man of strong will in the leading position, a man who is their center of union. Moreover, this strong and guiding personality in turn holds together with the others, finding in them the complement of his own nature.
Core Meaning
The core judgment of this hexagram.
Earth supports all things together
Hexagram Judgment
HOLDING TOGETHER brings good fortune. Inquire of the oracle once again Whether you possess sublimity, constancy, and perseverance; Then there is no blame. Those who are uncertain gradually join. Whoever comes too late Meets with misfortune.
What is required is that we unite with others, in order that all may complement and aid one another through holding together. But such holding together calls for a central figure around whom other persons may unite. To become a center of influence holding people together is a grave matter and fraught with great responsibility. It requires greatness of spirit, consistency, and strength. Therefore let him who wishes to gather others about him ask himself whether he is equal to the undertaking, for anyone attempting the task without a real calling for it only makes confusion worse than if no union at all had taken place. But when there is a real rallying point, those who at first are hesitant or uncertain gradually come in of their own accord. Late-comers must suffer the consequences, for in holding together the question of the right time is also important. Relationships are formed and firmly established according to definite inner laws. Common experiences strengthen these ties, and he who comes too late to share in these basic experiences must suffer for it if, as a straggler, he finds the door locked. If a man has recognized the necessity for union and does not feel strong enough to function as the center, it is his duty to become a member of some other organic fellowship.
Upper and Lower Trigrams
- Water (Kan)
- Water · Abysmal
- Earth (Kun)
- Earth · Receptive
Lines
What each of the six positions expresses.
Classics
Tuan CommentaryThe reasoning behind the judgment.
Holding together brings good fortune. Holding together means mutual support, and those below follow. Reexamining the enduring and steadfast way brings no blame because firmness is centered. The restless come from all sides because above and below respond to one another. The one who comes late meets misfortune because the way has already run its course.
Holding together means mutual support. Those below willingly follow above. Reexamining the original and steadfast way brings no blame because firmness is centered. The restless come from every side because above and below respond to one another. The latecomer meets misfortune because the time has already run its course.
Great ImageThe image itself, read as a picture of the situation.
On the earth is water: The image of HOLDING TOGETHER. Thus the kings of antiquity Bestowed the different states as fiefs And cultivated friendly relations With the feudal lords.
Water fills up all the empty places on the earth and clings fast to it. The social organization of ancient China was based on this principle of the holding together of dependents and rulers. Water flows to unite with water, because all parts of it are subject to the same laws. So too should human society hold together through a community of interests that allows each individual to feel himself a member of a whole. The central power of a social organization must see to it that every member finds that his true interest lies in holding together with it, as was the case in the paternal relationship between king and vassals in ancient China.
Further
Related hexagrams
Related Guides
- Hexagram LoveHexagram 8 (Holding Together [Union]) in Love: I Ching Guidance for RelationshipsWhat does Hexagram 8 (Holding Together [Union]) reveal about love and relationships? What is required is that we unite with others, in order that all may complement and aid one another through holding together. But such holding together calls fo... Explore how the I Ching guides emotional connection, dating, and partnership dynamics.
- Hexagram CareerHexagram 8 (Holding Together [Union]) in Career: I Ching Guidance for Work and Professional LifeWhat does Hexagram 8 (Holding Together [Union]) mean for your career? What is required is that we unite with others, in order that all may complement and aid one another through holding together. But such holding together calls fo... Learn how the I Ching guides professional decisions, leadership, timing, and workplace dynamics.
Frequently asked questions
What does Pi / Holding Together mean in the I Ching?
What is required is that we unite with others, in order that all may complement and aid one another through holding together. But such holding together calls fo...
How should I study Hexagram 8 on this page?
Start with the judgment and image, then read the line statements in sequence. Fundamental sincerity is the only proper basis for forming relationships. This attitude, symbolized by a full earthen bowl, in which the content is everything and the empty form no...
How can this hexagram be applied in a modern reading?
Holding together means mutual support. Those below willingly follow above. Reexamining the original and steadfast way brings no blame because firmness is centered. The restless come from every side because above and belo...
Test this hexagram against your question
A hexagram page is useful for study, but a real reading starts from your situation. Choose a question and cast directly.
Original text from the I Ching; translation based on Richard Wilhelm's German version.