I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 15 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 40

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 15.2.3.4 -> 40

15. Modesty (謙 Qiān)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 15

Hexagram 謙 (Qiān) symbolizes modesty. This hexagram represents the virtue of humility, where individuals acknowledge their limitations and act without arrogance. Modesty brings success by allowing growth and development without drawing negative attention.

Hexagram 15 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"謙亨,君子有終。"
(Qiān hēng, jūn zǐ yǒu zhōng.)
English Translation:
“Modesty creates success. The superior person completes their task.”

This hexagram advises modest behavior and humility as the key to success. The superior person accomplishes their goals by staying humble and grounded. Modesty allows them to remain focused and avoid unnecessary challenges.

Hexagram 15 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地中有山,謙。君子以裒多益寡,稱物平施。"
(Dì zhōng yǒu shān, qiān. Jūn zǐ yǐ póu duō yì guǎ, chēng wù píng shī.)
English Translation:
“Within the earth, there is a mountain: The image of Modesty. The superior person reduces that which is too much and augments that which is too little, thus balancing the gift of things.”

The image of a mountain within the earth symbolizes hidden strength. The superior person uses this time to balance things, helping those with less and gently reducing the excess of those with more. This creates harmony and equilibrium in the world.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"鳴謙,貞吉。"
(Míng qiān, zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Modesty that is proclaimed. Perseverance brings good fortune.”

This line speaks of someone whose modesty is recognized by others. Even when humility is visible or acknowledged, perseverance in modesty still brings good fortune. Public humility does not diminish its value.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"勞謙君子,有終,吉。"
(Láo qiān jūn zǐ, yǒu zhōng, jí.)
English Translation:
“The superior person works hard with modesty. In the end, good fortune.”

This line advises hard work combined with humility. By staying modest and diligent, the superior person achieves lasting success. Their efforts lead to good fortune and recognition in the end.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"無不利,撝謙。"
(Wú bù lì, huī qiān.)
English Translation:
“No disadvantage. Acting with modesty.”

This line states that modest behavior carries no disadvantages. Acting with humility ensures success and prevents conflict or failure. It advises maintaining a modest approach in all situations.

Changing to:

40. Deliverance (解 Xiè)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☵ Kǎn (Water)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 40

Hexagram 解 (Xiè) symbolizes release from difficulty or deliverance. This hexagram speaks of a time when tensions ease, obstacles are removed, and liberation is possible. Success comes from seizing the opportunity to move forward after a period of difficulty.

Hexagram 40 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"解,利西南。无所往,其來復吉。有攸往,夙吉。"
(Xiè, lì xī nán. Wú suǒ wǎng, qí lái fù jí. Yǒu yōu wǎng, sù jí.)
English Translation:
“Deliverance. It is favorable to go southwest. If there is nothing to pursue, returning brings good fortune. If there is something to pursue, setting out early brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises taking advantage of the easing of difficulties to move forward. If there is nothing urgent to pursue, it is best to return and rest. However, if there is a goal, starting early brings success.

Hexagram 40 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷雨作,解。君子以赦過宥罪。"
(Léi yǔ zuò, xiè. Jūn zǐ yǐ shè guò yòu zuì.)
English Translation:
“Thunder and rain set in: The image of Deliverance. The superior person pardons mistakes and forgives offenses.”

The image of thunder and rain symbolizes the release of tension and the clearing away of obstacles. The superior person, in a time of deliverance, shows mercy and forgiveness, helping others to move forward.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team