I Ching Hexagrams and Their Meanings: Insights from the 8 Trigrams

Yin-Yang symbol representing balance in I Ching

64 Hexagrams

The I Ching is an ancient system of wisdom based on 64 hexagrams, each uniquely formed from combinations of 8 essential trigrams. These trigrams represent fundamental forces in nature, such as Heaven, Earth, Water, and Fire. Each hexagram offers a unique perspective on life’s transitions, providing insights into personal growth, relationships, and decision-making. Use the links below to explore the meaning of each I Ching hexagram in detail.

䷀
1		 ䷁
2		 ䷂
3		 ䷃
4		 ䷄
5		 ䷅
6		 ䷆
7		 ䷇
8
䷈
9		 ䷉
10		 ䷊
11		 ䷋
12		 ䷌
13		 ䷍
14		 ䷎
15		 ䷏
16
䷐
17		 ䷑
18		 ䷒
19		 ䷓
20		 ䷔
21		 ䷕
22		 ䷖
23		 ䷗
24
䷘
25		 ䷙
26		 ䷚
27		 ䷛
28		 ䷜
29		 ䷝
30		 ䷞
31		 ䷟
32
䷠
33		 ䷡
34		 ䷢
35		 ䷣
36		 ䷤
37		 ䷥
38		 ䷦
39		 ䷧
40
䷨
41		 ䷩
42		 ䷪
43		 ䷫
44		 ䷬
45		 ䷭
46		 ䷮
47		 ䷯
48
䷰
49		 ䷱
50		 ䷲
51		 ䷳
52		 ䷴
53		 ䷵
54		 ䷶
55		 ䷷
56
䷸
57		 ䷹
58		 ䷺
59		 ䷻
60		 ䷼
61		 ䷽
62		 ䷾
63		 ䷿
64

8 Essential Trigrams in I Ching

The trigrams are the building blocks of the 64 hexagrams in the I Ching. Each trigram consists of three lines, which can be either solid (representing Yang) or broken (representing Yin). These trigrams symbolize natural elements and represent various qualities, forces, and archetypes. Below is an introduction to each trigram:

The 8 Essential Trigrams Used in the I Ching System

☰ Qian (Heaven/Sky)

  • Nature: Creative, powerful, and initiating.
  • Attributes: Strength, leadership, and authority.
  • Associated Element: Heaven.
  • Key Concepts: Creativity, inspiration, and divine influence.

☱ Dui (Lake)

  • Nature: Joyful, open, and communicative.
  • Attributes: Pleasure, connection, and receptivity.
  • Associated Element: Lake/Water.
  • Key Concepts: Harmony, enjoyment, and fulfillment.

☲ Li (Fire)

  • Nature: Clarity, illumination, and passion.
  • Attributes: Brightness, warmth, and beauty.
  • Associated Element: Fire.
  • Key Concepts: Insight, enlightenment, and vitality.

☳ Zhen (Thunder)

  • Nature: Arousing and sudden.
  • Attributes: Movement, awakening, and excitement.
  • Associated Element: Wood (Spring).
  • Key Concepts: Initiative, stimulation, and new beginnings.

☴ Xun (Wind/Wood)

  • Nature: Gentle yet persistent.
  • Attributes: Penetrating, influencing, and spread.
  • Associated Element: Wood (Growth).
  • Key Concepts: Flexibility, gradual development, and subtle influence.

☵ Kan (Water)

  • Nature: Deep, mysterious, and fluid.
  • Attributes: Danger, wisdom, and adaptability.
  • Associated Element: Water.
  • Key Concepts: Flow, depth, and navigating challenges.

☶ Gen (Mountain)

  • Nature: Still, immovable, and reflective.
  • Attributes: Stability, meditation, and rest.
  • Associated Element: Mountain/Earth.
  • Key Concepts: Contemplation, boundaries, and stillness.

☷ Kun (Earth)

  • Nature: Receptive, nurturing, and supportive.
  • Attributes: Yielding, adaptability, and fertility.
  • Associated Element: Earth.
  • Key Concepts: Grounding, collaboration, and growth.