I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 1 with Changing Lines 3, 4 to Hexagram 61

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 1.3.4 -> 61

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 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.

Changing to:

61. Inner Truth (中孚 Zhōng Fú)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☱ Duì (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 61

Hexagram 中孚 (Zhōng Fú) represents inner truth, symbolizing sincerity, faithfulness, and trust. This hexagram speaks of the importance of being true to oneself and others. Success comes from acting with sincerity and building trust in relationships.

Hexagram 61 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"中孚,豚魚吉,利涉大川,利貞。"
(Zhōng fú, tún yú jí, lì shè dà chuān, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Inner Truth. Pigs and fish. Good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great river. Perseverance furthers.”

This hexagram advises acting with sincerity and faithfulness. Success comes from being true to oneself and building trust. It is also favorable to take on significant challenges, symbolized by crossing the great river.

Hexagram 61 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風行澤中,中孚。君子以議獄緩死。"
(Fēng xíng zé zhōng, zhōng fú. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì yù huǎn sǐ.)
English Translation:
“Wind moves over the lake: The image of Inner Truth. The superior person discusses legal cases to delay executions.”

The image of wind moving over the lake represents the power of gentle influence and trust. The superior person, like the wind, uses their influence to ensure fairness and mercy, especially in difficult situations.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team