I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 15 with Changing Lines 3, 5 to Hexagram 8
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 15.3.5 -> 8
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
"謙亨，君子有終。"
(Qiān hēng, jūn zǐ yǒu zhōng.)
“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
"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.)
“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 3 Changing
"勞謙君子，有終，吉。"
(Láo qiān jūn zǐ, yǒu zhōng, jí.)
“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 5 Changing
"不富以其鄰，利用侵伐，無不利。"
(Bù fù yǐ qí lín, lì yòng qīn fá, wú bù lì.)
“Not enriching oneself at the expense of others. It is favorable to take action against difficulties. No disadvantage.”
This line emphasizes fairness and integrity. It advises not to gain wealth or advantage by harming others. By taking action against difficulties, one can avoid disadvantage and ensure success.
Changing to:
8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 8
Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.
Hexagram 8 Judgment
"比，吉。原筮，元永贞，无咎。不宁方来，后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”
This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.
Hexagram 8 Image
"水上有地，比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”
The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team