The Meaning of Hexagram #11

This powerful hexagram which in its most literal sense means "heaven" supporting the "earth" is an indication of peace and favorable times. This is a sign of prosperity, plenty and success. Heaven and the Earth are in spiritual contact at this time, and a harmony exists between them. Positive energy overwhelms and it is the responsibility of all to use and channel that energy wisely and for good.

NOTE: Want to know how I Ching hexagram #11, "Heaven below Earth", applies to questions about relationships? See our popular Love I Ching interpretation for hexagram #11

Changing Lines in Hexagram #11

Changes in Line 1

"When Grass is Uprooted, Other Plants Follow"

A change in this line at the base of the hexagram of Peace reminds us that forces that affect one person, also affect surrounding people. Another way of saying this is: "A rising tide lifts all ships". In times of prosperity, there are many paths to success.

Changes in Line 2

"Tolerate the Uncultured"

In times of prosperity it is important to show tolerance both to those who have not shared in success, or to those who use their success in uncultured ways. The message in this changing line is that rubbing shoulders with all types while demeaning no one, is a path to even greater success and enlightenment.

Changes in Line 3

"All Plains are Followed by Slopes"

This changing line near the middle of the hexagram is a reminder that even in times of prosperity, one must remember to be conscious of change. All good things come to an end. What is in one's nature is far more important than the trappings of success, for one's nature goes with one at all times.

Changes in Line 4

"Not Boasting of Wealth"

This changing line offers a stern warning to those who would advertise their own success. Those who boast may be reminded harshly that it was luck which made them successful. At this time immodesty is fraught with peril. The wise person treats all people equally. Such actions lead to greater successes at this time.

Changes in Line 5

"The King's Daughter is Married"

All happiness, success and celebrations are laced with complimentary issues of loss, sadness and heartbreak. It is important to remember that all that is celebrated is a matter of good fortune, and not something to be expected or deserved. One who treats success as if it "should" happen will be reminded that sometimes it does not.

Changes in Line 6

"The Castle Wall Tumbles to the Moat"

This changing line at the top of the hexagram suggests that a time of peace and prosperity may be coming to an end. That which was depended upon, is now leaving rapidly. As peace and prosperity disappear, make note of who and what is truly important. A time of unfortunate changes is at hand. Security is threatened and that which seemed stable is now imbalanced.

The Two Trigrams Within Hexagram #11

I Ching hexagram #11 is built out of two 3-line trigrams mounted over and under one another. The lower 3 lines of hexagram #11 make up the trigram for Heaven, while the top 3 lines make up the trigram for Earth.

NOTE: In general terms, the hexagram's upper trigram symbolizes external energies, and the bottom trigram symbolizes internal energies.

Hexagram #11's Lower Trigram of Heaven

The supreme trigram of Heaven is also sometimes known as the the Creative. It is a trigram of unadulterated, perfect creative force. The trigram for Heaven is a representation of pure truth and power. The trigram may also point to a father figure — or the direction of the northwest.

Hexagram #11's Upper Trigram of Earth

The evenly divided trigram of Earth sometimes known as the trigram of the Receptive. Its characteristic traits are powerful devotion and a resilient bowing to external forces. The trigram of Earth may also reference the state of 'motherhood' or traditional female forces. The three unbroken lines may also indicate the direction of southwest

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #11

A note on iFate's I Ching translation: This is not a direct translation of the original "Book of Changes" from 1000 BC. While multiple translations of the original text are available, they include many archaic references and can be difficult to understand for 21st century readers. iFate uses our own modern rewritings (two different editions) of the "Book of Changes" which makes interpreting I Ching readings far simpler. For iFate's additional contemporary re-writing of the original text, see our "Love I Ching" translation.