I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 12 with Changing Lines 2, 3 to Hexagram 44
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 12.2.3 -> 44
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
"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.)
“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
"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.)
“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
"包承,小人吉,大人否亨。"
(Bāo chéng, xiǎo rén jí, dà rén pǐ hēng.)
“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
"包羞。"
(Bāo xiū.)
“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.
Changing to:
44. Coming to Meet (姤 Gòu)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 44
Hexagram 姤 (Gòu) represents an unexpected encounter or meeting. This hexagram speaks of sudden developments or the arrival of someone or something unexpected. Success comes from being prepared and handling the encounter with care.
Hexagram 44 Judgment
"姤,女壯,勿用取女。"
(Gòu, nǚ zhuàng, wù yòng qǔ nǚ.)
“Coming to Meet. The woman is strong. Do not marry such a woman.”
This hexagram advises caution when dealing with unexpected encounters, especially if the situation involves a strong or dominant force. The reference to not marrying such a woman speaks to the need for careful consideration and not rushing into commitments.
Hexagram 44 Image
"天下有風,姤。後以施命誥四方。"
(Tiān xià yǒu fēng, gòu. Hòu yǐ shī mìng gào sìfāng.)
“Wind beneath heaven: The image of Coming to Meet. The superior person announces their commands to the four corners of the world.”
The image of wind beneath heaven represents a message or announcement being carried far and wide. The superior person, like the wind, spreads their influence and communicates clearly with others.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team