I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 12 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 6 to Hexagram 29
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 12.2.4.6 -> 29
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 4 Changing
"有命，无咎，畴离祉。"
(Yǒu mìng, wú jiù, chóu lí zhǐ.)
“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
"倾否，先否后喜。"
(Qīng pǐ, xiān pǐ hòu xǐ.)
“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:
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
"習坎，有孚，維心亨，行有尚。"
(Xí kǎn, yǒu fú, wéi xīn hēng, xíng yǒu shàng.)
“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
"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.)
“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