I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 10 with Changing Lines 1, 2 to Hexagram 12

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 10.1.2 -> 12

10. Treading (履 Lǚ)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☱ Dui (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 10

Hexagram 履 (Lǚ) represents careful treading or walking. It emphasizes caution in behavior and the need for sensitivity to the conditions around you. Success comes from walking the line between boldness and discretion.

Hexagram 10 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"履虎尾,不咥人,亨。"
(Lǚ hǔ wěi, bù dié rén, hēng.)
English Translation:
“Treading on the tail of the tiger. It does not bite the man. Success.”

This hexagram speaks of treading in a dangerous situation, like walking on a tiger's tail. However, if one proceeds cautiously and with respect, no harm will come, and success can be achieved.

Hexagram 10 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"上天下泽,履。君子以辨上下,定民志。"
(Shàng tiān xià zé, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ biàn shàng xià, dìng mín zhì.)
English Translation:
“Heaven above, the lake below: The image of Treading. The superior person discriminates between high and low, and strengthens the people’s resolve.”

The image of heaven above and the lake below suggests a balance between different forces. The superior person walks carefully, recognizing the hierarchy of forces and ensuring that the people’s resolve is firm. It is about maintaining balance and discernment.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"素履,往无咎。"
(Sù lǚ, wǎng wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Simple treading. Going forward brings no blame.”

This line suggests that simple, honest behavior brings no harm. By walking humbly and avoiding excess, one can proceed without danger or blame.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"履道坦坦,幽人贞吉。"
(Lǚ dào tǎn tǎn, yōu rén zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Treading a smooth path. The recluse’s perseverance brings good fortune.”

This line describes a smooth and straightforward path. It suggests that those who follow their inner principles (like the recluse) and stay true to themselves will experience good fortune. Perseverance in simplicity brings success.

Changing to:

12. Standstill (否 Pǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 12

Hexagram 否 (Pǐ) symbolizes standstill or stagnation. This hexagram represents a time when progress halts, and opposing forces prevent movement forward. It advises patience and waiting for more favorable conditions.

Hexagram 12 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"否之匪人,不利君子贞,大往小来。"
(Pǐ zhī fěi rén, bù lì jūn zǐ zhēn, dà wǎng xiǎo lái.)
English Translation:
“Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior person. The great departs; the small approaches.”

In times of standstill, negative forces dominate, making it difficult for the superior person to act. The good or great things seem to recede, while small, petty concerns take their place. This hexagram advises patience and restraint until the situation improves.

Hexagram 12 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天地不交,否。君子以俭德辟难,不可荣以禄。"
(Tiān dì bù jiāo, pǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiǎn dé pì nàn, bù kě róng yǐ lù.)
English Translation:
“Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. The superior person uses modesty to avoid difficulties. He does not boast of riches or honors.”

The image of heaven and earth not interacting symbolizes a breakdown in harmony, leading to stagnation. The superior person recognizes that in such times, it is better to remain modest, avoid drawing attention, and wait for a more favorable situation.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team