I Ching hexagram
7. Discipline
師Shī
Earth over Water
Also called The Army, The Symbol of Multitude and of Army, Legions/ Leading, The Troops, Collective Force, Discipline, Soldiers, Group Action, A Disciplined Multitude, Ego Discipline, Willpower "Can refer to mourning but its essential meaning is Discipline." -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 7, Discipline (師 Shī) is formed by Earth over Water. It is also known as The Army, The Symbol of Multitude and of Army, Legions/ Leading, The Troops, Collective Force, Soldiers, Group Action, A Disciplined Multitude. The judgment is James Legge. The six lines are R.L. Wing — the same texts used in a reading on this site.
The judgment
James Legge
Discipline indicates that with firm correctness and a leader of age and experience, there will be good fortune and no error.
The six lines
R.L. Wing · line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yin
Before you take action, be certain that what you propose is worthwhile, for otherwise you cannot sustain yourself. Be sure as well that you are organized. Without order, your affairs will end in chaos and misfortune. Discipline is the key here.
- Line 2Yang
You are in an excellent position to communicate with others. Because this situation is so well disposed you will meet with good fortune and win recognition from your superiors.
- Line 3Yin
There is an absence of vision and leadership. Whether it is a matter of divergent goals or whether the acting leader is simply inept, the result is the same: misfortune.
- Line 4Yin
The obstacles ahead are insurmountable. Struggling against them is useless. Therefore the intelligent maneuver is retreat.
- Line 5Yin
Rely on an experienced person to lead the way in correcting the situation. He must be moderate in his behavior and not over reactive, for this would lead to misfortune. Inexperienced and enthusiastic persons are now inappropriate for the job of deliberate and controlled leadership.
- Line 6Yin
Your aim is achieved. When settling into the new situation be certain to align your proprieties to worthwhile values. Inferior persons and ideas should be assigned to their proper places. Do not give them a voice in your affairs.
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 7 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings.