I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 1 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 29

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 1.1.3.4.6 -> 29

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 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"君子终日乾乾,夕惕若,厉无咎。"
(Jūn zǐ zhōng rì qián qián, xī tí ruò, lì wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“The superior person works hard all day, and in the evening remains cautious. Danger, but no fault.”

This line describes the superior person who works diligently throughout the day and remains mindful even at night. This period signifies a time of intense responsibility or growing influence, where one’s actions are under scrutiny. While success brings opportunities, it also brings potential dangers—such as overwork, distraction, or the temptation to lose integrity. The 'danger' in this line refers to the challenges that arise as one's influence grows. However, the line reassures that if the superior person stays cautious and maintains their principles, there will be 'no fault.' It emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and vigilance, even during times of success.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"或跃在渊,无咎。"
(Huò yuè zài yuān, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Leaping dragon in the abyss. No fault.”

The dragon has reached the edge of an abyss, symbolizing a point of transition or a moment of great potential risk. It can leap upward or retreat back into the depths. This line represents a critical choice: whether to rise to a position of power or retreat into introspection. Both options are viable, and there is 'no fault' in choosing either path. This line suggests that you may be at a crossroads where bold action is possible. It encourages careful consideration but reassures that either path—whether rising to public prominence or withdrawing into seclusion—can be the right one as long as it aligns with your true nature.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"亢龙有悔。"
(Kàng lóng yǒu huǐ.)
English Translation:
“The arrogant dragon will have regrets.”

At this highest level, the dragon reaches a state of arrogance, overconfidence, or excessive ambition. This line serves as a warning that when strength and power are not tempered by humility, they lead to isolation and eventual downfall. The 'regret' comes from overstepping boundaries or losing touch with reality. In life, this line warns against hubris—when you achieve great power or success, it’s essential to remain grounded. Overreaching can lead to failure and regret. The key is to balance ambition with wisdom, humility, and connection to others.

Changing to:

29. The Abysmal (Water) (坎 Kǎn)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☵ Kǎn (Water)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 29

Hexagram 坎 (Kǎn) symbolizes danger, difficulty, and the need to navigate through perilous situations. This hexagram speaks of repeated challenges and the need for resilience and wisdom in order to move through difficulties successfully.

Hexagram 29 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"習坎,有孚,維心亨,行有尚。"
(Xí kǎn, yǒu fú, wéi xīn hēng, xíng yǒu shàng.)
English Translation:
“The Abysmal repeated. If you are sincere, you have success in your heart, and whatever you do has merit.”

This hexagram speaks of repeated dangers, symbolized by water that constantly flows and faces obstacles. Success comes from being sincere and steady in the face of these challenges. Inner strength and determination bring merit and success.

Hexagram 29 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"水流至坎,習坎。君子以常德行,習教事。"
(Shuǐ liú zhì kǎn, xí kǎn. Jūn zǐ yǐ cháng dé xíng, xí jiào shì.)
English Translation:
“Water flows into the abyss: The image of The Abysmal. The superior person cultivates virtue and continues their teaching.”

The image of water flowing into the abyss represents constant challenges. The superior person uses these challenges to cultivate inner strength and virtue, continuing their teaching and work despite difficulties.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team