I Ching · Hexagram 7 of 64
7. Shī 師 · The Army
By Destiny Kua · Updated
Organisation and discipline under good leadership.
- Upper trigram
- Earth 坤
- Lower trigram
- Water 坎
What hexagram 7 means
Shī is water hidden beneath the earth: a large force held in reserve. It pictures an army and the discipline it needs. Collective effort works only with clear order, a worthy purpose and an experienced leader. Force without discipline is a disaster.
Hexagram 7 in daily life
At work
Big collective effort ahead. Organise the team, set clear roles and choose a trustworthy lead.
In relationships
Shared goals need shared rules. Agree on how you'll handle tension before it arises.
For yourself
Discipline your own energy: routines, priorities and a clear purpose.
The six changing lines
If your cast included changing lines (a 6 or a 9), read the matching lines below. Line 1 is the bottom line.
| Line | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Line 1 | Set out in good order. Without discipline, there will be misfortune. |
| Line 2 | In the middle of the group, well supported: good fortune and recognition. |
| Line 3 | Too many people giving orders; the effort fails. Clarify who leads. |
| Line 4 | Retreat is wise now. No blame. |
| Line 5 | There is a real problem to deal with. Let the experienced person lead; too many voices bring misfortune. |
| Line 6 | Success is achieved. Reward people fairly, but don't give power to those who can't handle it. |
The two trigrams
The lower trigram, Water 坎 (Kǎn), stands for your inner state and the root of the situation. The upper trigram, Earth 坤 (Kūn), stands for the outer circumstances. In element terms this is Earth over Water. Water is the trigram of Kua 1 and Earth is the trigram of Kua 2.
Related hexagrams
- Opposite (every line changed): 13. Tóng Rén 同人 · Fellowship
- Inverted (read upside down): 8. Bǐ 比 · Holding Together
Questions to reflect on
- Who is really leading this, and is that clear to everyone?
- What discipline am I missing?
- Is my cause worth the effort I'm asking of others?
Our line summaries are written in plain English in our own words, based on the traditional meanings. For reflection and entertainment, not prediction or professional advice.