Hexagram Structure

Each hexagram contains layers of meaning that can be applied to your situation. Learning to interpret them is both an art and a practice that deepens over time.

Structure of a Hexagram

Each hexagram consists of:

• Upper Trigram: Represents the outer world, future, or heaven
• Lower Trigram: Represents the inner world, past, or earth
• Six Lines: Each line has its own meaning and position significance

The Two Trigrams

When you receive a hexagram, first identify its two component trigrams:

| Position | Represents | Focus |

|----------|------------|-------|

| Upper (lines 4-6) | Outer situation | External world, others |

| Lower (lines 1-3) | Inner situation | Self, foundation |

The relationship between these trigrams tells a story about how your inner state relates to your outer circumstances.

Line Positions

Lines are read from bottom to top, each position carrying specific meaning:

| Line | Position | Meaning |

|------|----------|---------|

| 1 | Bottom | Beginning, foundation, potential |

| 2 | Lower inner | Development, inner growth |

| 3 | Top of lower | Transition, danger point |

| 4 | Bottom of upper | Entry to outer world |

| 5 | Upper inner | Ruler's position, peak power |

| 6 | Top | Completion, excess, ending |

Lines 2 and 5 are considered the most favorable positions—they are centered within their trigrams.