Hexagram 7 - The Army - SHIH

Be prepared for a challenge or test that is about to arise. Just as in times of war, it is wise to follow a leader who is both cautious and compassionate.

Summary

Hexagram 7 is named "The Army" and is associated with an organisation, group effort and discipline. It reflects a situation where a group of people work together towards a common goal, and cooperation and coordination are needed to achieve success.

Interpretation

The military calls for steadfastness and a capable commander. This hexagram presents itself when we face a challenging situation or conflict, which may be external or internal or impact our emotional stability. The challenge requires us to conquer our egocentric impulses firmly. To attain our objectives with the Creative, it's crucial to adopt a proper posture characterised by inner autonomy and vigilance. Despite the time required to bring about change, we must maintain a steady heart, which produces immense creative power. This power can only be sustained by strict self-control and unwavering commitment to our values. A fickle nature undermines us, leading to no progress and increased obstacles, like when we question our choice of the I Ching path or when we hurt others with a sense of justification. Progress is achieved by mastering our inner selves, symbolised by bringing order to the army.

The "Army" represents the ideal balance between our superior and inferior aspects of personality. Our personality needs a strong and determined leader, or "Superior Man," who can guide us through trying times when our inner child threatens to dominate. When the immature child prevails, it's as if a sergeant misleads the troops, leading to defeat due to a lack of perspective. The Superior Man must educate the troops, or "inferiors," on the importance of discipline during battles and emphasise that emotions must not rule.

Wars in this hexagram refer to ongoing internal conflicts that began as disputes, like a resolved lawsuit that creates a never-ending battle. Fights can also stem from external sources, like individuals who challenge our values or our inner Inferior Man. The key to victory is detachment from the situation, returning to inner stillness, and restoring clarity, strength, and emotional independence. According to the I Ching, challenges must be won through modest means and incremental gains, and gains must be protected by retreating and restoring inner simplicity. After each battle, we must remain focused on our progress, avoiding wholesale changes and self-centred tendencies. The hexagram Shih guides how to handle adversity with grace and grit, reminding us that our actions during trials determine our success.

Sage Advice

To be successful, it is advised to maintain focus on your goals, be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances, and maintain discipline and order. It also emphasises the importance of taking on a leadership role and inspiring others but avoiding arrogance or overbearing behaviour. The hexagram encourages balancing individual, and group needs through cooperation, respect, and communication. Additionally, it stresses the importance of being prepared, unified, decisive, and patient in the face of challenges and relying on the support of others to work towards a common goal.

Line 1

An army must march forward with a clear and organised plan. A lack of proper order brings misfortune. To ensure obedience and unity among the troops, it is crucial to maintain humility, adhere to justice, and resist any external pressure to act impulsively. Modesty is the key to doing what is right, and it can be easily fostered by educating the troops about the importance of discipline. However, beware of the internal threat posed by the Inferior Man who acts as a traitor within the ranks and must be actively combated. To overcome this, eliminate all actions driven by fear, selfishness, or vanity. If this proves challenging, be prepared to counter any attempts by the ego to seize control. Being ready fortifies our ability to control the ego and achieve success.

Line 2

As a leader amid the troops, it's your responsibility to bring comfort and reassurance. Encourage patience and perseverance, reminding the inferiors that obedience and loyalty to the cause are crucial. Let the wisdom of the Sage guide you, and remain flexible and adaptable to the changing tides of the battle. Avoid rigidness and fear, as they can lead to self-interest and not serving what is truly good.

Line 3

Beware of the usurpation of power by the inferior self. The ego must be kept in check to avoid defeat and failure. Surrender to the wisdom of the Sage and dispel negative emotions like anger and pride to overcome the consequences of past mistakes. Let go of self-doubt and bury the remnants of past failures to allow for growth and inner peace.

Line 4

When facing opposition from inferior forces, either within or outside ourselves, the best course of action is to retreat. This retreat is a calculated move towards neutralising emotions and accepting the current situation. It requires determination and purpose to maintain composure and avoid getting further entrenched. Doing so allows us to regroup and regain our composure, ready for a renewed advance.

Line 5

The evil has reared its head, but it must be addressed with a firm yet measured response. Do not let anger dictate your actions. Instead, draw upon the wisdom of moral principles and let the matter pass quickly. Holding onto grievances only creates a mental prison, so let them go and move forward with clarity and purpose.

Line 6

An influential leader who gives orders, creates nations, and bestows lands upon families. Inferior individuals should not be assigned a role in this process. The battle has already been won, but it's essential to recognise if the means of victory were unethical. The path of modesty and caution, where growth is gradual but long-lasting, is the most favourable route. Avoiding unethical methods and embracing humility leads to true success.