I Ching hexagram
9. Passive Restraint
小畜Xiǎo Xù
Wind over Heaven
Also called The Taming Power of the Small, The Symbol of Small restraint, The Lesser Nourisher, Taming the Small Powers, Small Accumulating, Small Harvest, Small Obstruction, Nurturance by the Small, Restraint by the Weak, Restrained, Minor Restraint, The Weak Force, The Force of the Small, Weak Forces Restrain Strong Forces "The restraint is small, success follows. Overcoming something small which is poisoning or nagging. Partially relieving a situation. Influencing that which one cannot change.” -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 9, Passive Restraint (小畜 Xiǎo Xù) is formed by Wind over Heaven. It is also known as The Taming Power of the Small, The Symbol of Small restraint, The Lesser Nourisher, Taming the Small Powers, Small Accumulating, Small Harvest, Small Obstruction, Nurturance by the Small. 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
Passive Restraint brings about progress and success. We see dense clouds, but no rain coming from our western borders.
The six lines
R.L. Wing · line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yang
In forcing your way, you meet with obstacles. It is best to hold back to a position where you have the choice of advance or retreat. Then you may concern yourself with the true nature of the situation and react accordingly.
- Line 2Yang
Although you might like to take action, it would be wise to re-evaluate the situation and study the examples of others who have come before you. The time suggests that a retreat leads to good fortune.
- Line 3Yang
The opposition appears minor and advance seems possible. Yet the situation is not in your control. If you insist upon forging ahead confidently you will be defeated by no end of annoyances. This has a most undignified appearance.
- Line 4Yin
If you are honest and sincere and influence others with the correct advice, you can avoid existing and terrible dangers. Fear and anxiety will give way only to truth. Then no error will be made.
- Line 5Yang
Through a co-operative and loyal relationship with another, you increase your resources mutually. In this way you can accomplish your aim.
- Line 6Yang
You have won the battle. Rest and consolidate your position now and restrain yourself from going after the entire war. Caution: Adversity is on the rise. If you attempt to push ahead, you will meet with misfortune.
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 9 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings.