I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 1 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 5 to Hexagram 56

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 1.1.2.5 -> 56

1. The Creative (乾 Qián)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 1

Hexagram 乾 (Qián) represents the primal creative force of the universe. The unbroken lines symbolize pure yang energy—strong, forceful, and unyielding. This hexagram is associated with heaven, creativity, and powerful motion. In both the cosmos and human life, Qián refers to the energetic forces that initiate movement, development, and progress. It represents the continual, dynamic flow that drives change and growth. In human terms, Qián reflects the traits of a great leader or sage. It describes a person who is unrelenting in their pursuit of ideals, constantly striving to improve themselves and others through perseverance and strength. This leader possesses the ability to inspire and bring out the best in those around them, shaping the world through their creative power.

Hexagram 1 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨,利贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Sublimely successful, furthering through perseverance in what is right.”

The Judgment emphasizes the importance of both creativity and persistence. The word 'sublime' refers to greatness, not just in terms of success but in the ability to create something meaningful and lasting. 'Perseverance in what is right' underlines the importance of ethical action. True success comes not just from power or ability, but from staying true to principles and following the right course, even when it is difficult. In practice, this means that those who receive this hexagram are being encouraged to persist in their endeavors, but only as long as they act with integrity. This is not a blind call for perseverance—it’s about remaining committed to a path of righteousness and making steady progress toward one’s goals.

Hexagram 1 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天行健,君子以自强不息。"
(Tiān xíng jiàn, jūn zǐ yǐ zì qiáng bù xī.)
English Translation:
“The movement of heaven is powerful. The superior person strengthens themselves and never stops.”

The image of heaven's constant, strong movement is a metaphor for both cosmic forces and human willpower. Just as the heavens never cease moving, the superior person must continuously work on self-improvement and inner strength. This implies a lifelong dedication to personal development, without giving in to laziness or complacency. In practical terms, this is a call for resilience and endurance. It suggests that by emulating the continuous motion of heaven, individuals can achieve great things over time. Success in life comes not from short bursts of effort, but from steady, long-term commitment to one's goals.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"潜龙,勿用。"
(Qián lóng, wù yòng.)
English Translation:
“Hidden dragon. Do not act.”

The image of a hidden dragon refers to latent, yet untapped potential. The dragon, a symbol of power and strength in Chinese culture, is not yet ready to emerge. This could symbolize a person who has great abilities but whose time to act has not yet come. The line advises patience and caution—acting prematurely would waste this potential or lead to failure. In life, this suggests a period of preparation. You may have the talent, strength, or resources, but external conditions aren’t ripe for action. The message is to cultivate patience, continue developing your abilities, and wait for the right moment to reveal your power.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"见龙在田,利见大人。"
(Jiàn lóng zài tián, lì jiàn dà rén.)
English Translation:
“The dragon appears in the field. It is beneficial to see the great man.”

Here, the dragon has moved from hiding into the field, a space of activity and visibility. This indicates a phase where one’s potential or talents start to manifest. Although the dragon is not yet soaring in the sky (ultimate achievement), it is now operating in the world and influencing others. The 'great man' refers to someone of wisdom or authority who can offer guidance or mentorship. This line advises that now is a good time to seek wise counsel or leadership. Meeting a mentor or aligning with someone of greater experience will be beneficial as you move from preparation to action. It’s also a reminder to remain grounded, as the dragon is still on the earth.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"飞龙在天,利见大人。"
(Fēi lóng zài tiān, lì jiàn dà rén.)
English Translation:
“Flying dragon in the heavens. It is beneficial to see the great man.”

This line depicts the dragon soaring in the sky, which symbolizes the peak of power, influence, and creativity. This is a time when one’s potential has fully manifested, and their influence reaches far and wide. Seeing the 'great man' at this stage suggests that even in times of great success, it is still important to seek the guidance of those with wisdom. In practical terms, this line signifies that you are in a position of authority or are about to achieve a great victory. However, it advises maintaining humility and seeking counsel, even when at the top, to ensure continued success.

Changing to:

56. The Wanderer (旅 Lǚ)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 56

Hexagram 旅 (Lǚ) represents the wanderer, one who travels and is not rooted in a single place. This hexagram speaks of a time when one must adapt to unfamiliar circumstances, relying on resourcefulness and resilience. Success comes from knowing when to move on and how to navigate changing environments.

Hexagram 56 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"旅,小亨,旅貞吉。"
(Lǚ, xiǎo hēng, lǚ zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“The Wanderer. Small success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the wanderer.”

This hexagram advises that while traveling or navigating unfamiliar situations, success comes from perseverance and adaptability. Although the progress may be small, by remaining flexible and resourceful, good fortune follows.

Hexagram 56 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"山上有火,旅。君子以明慎用刑,而不留狱。"
(Shān shàng yǒu huǒ, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ míng shèn yòng xíng, ér bù liú yù.)
English Translation:
“Fire on the mountain: The image of The Wanderer. The superior person is clear-minded and careful in the use of punishment, avoiding holding prisoners for long.”

The image of fire on the mountain represents a time of transience and impermanence. The superior person, like the wanderer, remains clear-minded and cautious, taking decisive action but not becoming too attached to any single place or situation.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team