Wind above – Heaven below
Xiao Chu is also titled Taming Power of the Small, Cultivating the Small, Little Accumulation, Small Taming. Xian translates to diminished, humble, insignificant and Chu translates to take care of, tend to, support. Wind is invisible but its constant small actions build over time into the powerful strength through cumulative force; Wind can eventually twist trees and level mountains. Through Wind’s example, we come to see how strong forces can be held in check by forces that, although weaker, are nevertheless relentless. There are innumerable small details and choices in life and Xiao Chu reminds us of the importance of working with them in a clean, conscious, balanced way because they accumulate over time. The wisdom illuminated in the hexagram shows the value of restraining oneself because power accrues when it is held back.
Breaking down the symbolism of the 3-line trigrams helps with understanding the ancient teachings:
Trigram Heaven is shown in the image as the bottom 3 lines (below right), representing the inner situation. Heaven has its timing, laws, truth, strength, direction and perseverance. These are the inner set of rules and responsibility for timing and strategy associated with your situation.
Trigram Wind is on top of trigram Heaven showing the externalized situation. Wind spreads these inner values into the outer world in its gentle, relentless way. Wind works invisibly and has no boundaries; wind carries the promise that what seems like small or insignificant may eventually add up to big results.
The ancient ideograph on the left portion of the image below shows 3 vertical strokes at the top symbolizing the act of dividing something, which makes it smaller. The next portion below has two ideas. The lowest one represents a field. Above the field are two piles of grass stored one upon another with a covering on the top. Overall, the image is of storing or accumulating.
In summary: The “Small” in Taming of the Small refers to yin (broken line), the receptive principle which the ancients designated as weaker than the initiating yang (pictured as a solid line). “Taming” refers to accumulating. The image shows wind (Wind) driving across the sky (Heaven) and yet there is no rain. This illustrates a time where it is not possible to accomplish big things; sometimes there may even be a bit of a setback. It is best to attend to that which is in front of you, diligently and paying attention to details. Heaven within contains your strategy, directives and timing. The Wind as the outer trigram brings these directives into the outer world and applies them within your environment. As Wind stirs above Heaven in small actions, it makes creation through the many small and mundane tasks possible. “Small is one of the world’s great dimensions”.
Following are a few ideas for interpretations of each line:
Line 1 – Going your own road does not mean every turn is the correct one. There are times when being true to your own road will not align with being faithful to a previous direction or goal. You have time now to figure things out, even if you go back to the beginning, there is good fortune in return to your own road.
Line 2 – Your best move is returning to your small endeavor and your tribe. Show your appreciation, put diligent care into it and consult with those in your life. It is better to do this without drawing undue attention.
Line 3 – Small accumulations work both ways, building up or tearing apart. They grow in small reactions, actions or actions not taken. When little things go wrong, don’t take it out on others. The power here is found in submissiveness. Listen to those around you and attend to your responsibilities.
Line 4 – Although there may be apprehension, anxiety or frustration at this time, if one turns toward ideals, inspiration or responsibilities, the personal element diminishes. Then, with higher purpose in mind, fear tends to dissipate.
Line 5 – The ancient voices say “one who helps others, in the end helps himself” and this way small accumulation alternates to great accumulation. Success comes through treating the people in your life with sincerity, compassion and generosity.
Line 6 – Things have come to fullness. You have what you need and this is a time for contentment and appreciation. Even if you feel certain you want something else, resist forcing anything or anyone.