I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 12 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 48

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 12.2.3.4.6 -> 48

Old Yang Young Yang Old Yang Old Yin Old Yin Young Yin

12. Standstill

Yin Yang Yin Yang Yang Yin

48. The Well

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.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"包承，小人吉，大人否亨。"
(Bāo chéng, xiǎo rén jí, dà rén pǐ hēng.)
English Translation:
“She bears with things. The small person has good fortune; the superior person cannot act, though success is possible.”

This line describes someone enduring the situation patiently. In times of stagnation, the small or lesser person may find ways to succeed, while the superior person is prevented from making progress. Success is still possible with patience.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"包羞。"
(Bāo xiū.)
English Translation:
“Bearing shame.”

This line warns of the risk of shame or dishonor in a time of standstill. Trying to act when the situation is not favorable may result in embarrassment or failure. It advises caution and restraint.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"有命，无咎，畴离祉。"
(Yǒu mìng, wú jiù, chóu lí zhǐ.)
English Translation:
“There is a mandate. No blame. Those who work together are blessed.”

This line speaks of a mandate or destiny that helps guide the situation. Those who unite or work together during difficult times will find that they are blessed and avoid blame. Collaboration brings relief.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"倾否，先否后喜。"
(Qīng pǐ, xiān pǐ hòu xǐ.)
English Translation:
“Overturning the standstill. First there is standstill, then joy.”

This line speaks of the eventual resolution of the stagnation. Although times are difficult at first, they will eventually give way to joy and success. The standstill can be overturned with patience.

Changing to:

48. The Well (井 Jǐng)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 48

Hexagram 井 (Jǐng) represents a well, which provides life-sustaining water to all. This hexagram speaks of the importance of tapping into shared resources and maintaining those resources to benefit everyone. Success comes from nurturing and distributing the wellspring of knowledge, energy, or resources.

Hexagram 48 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"井，改邑不改井，无喪无得。往來井井，汔至亦未繘井，羸其瓶，凶。"
(Jǐng, gǎi yì bù gǎi jǐng, wú sàng wú dé. Wǎng lái jǐng jǐng, qì zhì yì wèi jué jǐng, léi qí píng, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“The Well. The town may be changed, but the well cannot be changed. It neither decreases nor increases. People come and go, drawing from the well. If the water reaches but the rope does not pull it up, or if the jug is broken, misfortune.”

This hexagram advises maintaining a stable source of resources or support. The well represents a constant and essential resource that should be cared for and utilized properly. Success comes from ensuring the well's continued function. Misfortune arises when the well is neglected or improperly used.

Hexagram 48 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"木上有水，井。君子以勞民勸相。"
(Mù shàng yǒu shuǐ, jǐng. Jūn zǐ yǐ láo mín quàn xiāng.)
English Translation:
“Water over wood: The image of The Well. The superior person encourages the people to work and inspire each other.”

The image of water over wood symbolizes the well’s ability to sustain life. The superior person draws on the well of human resources, inspiring and organizing others to contribute to the collective effort, ensuring the community thrives.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team