I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 16 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 1

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 16.1.2.3.5.6 -> 1

16. Enthusiasm (豫 Yù)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 16

Hexagram 豫 (Yù) represents enthusiasm, excitement, and a sense of shared purpose. This hexagram speaks of a time when energy and joy fuel collective actions. Enthusiasm drives forward progress and creates harmony among people.

Hexagram 16 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"豫,利建侯行师。"
(Yù, lì jiàn hóu xíng shī.)
English Translation:
“Enthusiasm. It is beneficial to appoint helpers and set armies marching.”

This hexagram signifies a time when enthusiasm drives collective action. It is a good time to delegate tasks to others, appoint capable helpers, and move forward with large plans. Progress is made with shared energy and excitement.

Hexagram 16 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷出地奋,豫。先王以作乐崇德,殷荐之上帝,以配祖考。"
(Léi chū dì fèn, yù. Xiān wáng yǐ zuò yuè chóng dé, yīn jiàn zhī shàng dì, yǐ pèi zǔ kǎo.)
English Translation:
“Thunder comes bursting out of the earth: The image of Enthusiasm. The ancient kings made music and offered it in honor of virtue. They worshiped with reverence at the temple of their ancestors.”

The image of thunder erupting from the earth represents the energy and power of enthusiasm. The ancient kings used this energy to create harmony through music and honor their ancestors. In modern terms, this means using the joy of collective effort to build on past virtues and create a better future.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"鸣豫,凶。"
(Míng yù, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Enthusiasm that is premature brings misfortune.”

This line warns against rushing into action before the time is right. Enthusiasm that is not grounded in careful preparation can lead to misfortune. It advises waiting until conditions are truly favorable.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"鸣豫,吉。"
(Míng yù, jí.)
English Translation:
“Enthusiasm that is proclaimed brings good fortune.”

This line speaks of the right time to share one's enthusiasm with others. When the time is right, expressing enthusiasm openly can inspire others and lead to success. Collective joy and energy bring good fortune.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"盱豫,悔迟,有悔。"
(Xū yù, huǐ chí, yǒu huǐ.)
English Translation:
“Hesitant enthusiasm brings regret.”

This line describes a situation where hesitation and lack of confidence undermine enthusiasm. Delaying action can lead to missed opportunities and regret. It advises overcoming doubt and moving forward with confidence.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"贞疾,恒不死。"
(Zhēn jí, héng bù sǐ.)
English Translation:
“Persistent illness. But one does not die.”

This line describes a difficult situation, but one that can be overcome through persistence. Even in the face of challenges, endurance brings survival and eventual success. It advises staying strong and committed despite obstacles.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"冥豫,成有渝,无咎。"
(Míng yù, chéng yǒu yú, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Blind enthusiasm. Yet success leads to change. No blame.”

This line speaks of enthusiasm that is initially blind or misdirected but still leads to success. Though the approach may be flawed, the outcome brings positive change, and there is no blame. It suggests that even imperfect efforts can lead to good results.

Changing to:

1. The Creative (乾 Qián)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 1

Hexagram 乾 (Qián) represents the primal creative force of the universe. The unbroken lines symbolize pure yang energy—strong, forceful, and unyielding. This hexagram is associated with heaven, creativity, and powerful motion. In both the cosmos and human life, Qián refers to the energetic forces that initiate movement, development, and progress. It represents the continual, dynamic flow that drives change and growth. In human terms, Qián reflects the traits of a great leader or sage. It describes a person who is unrelenting in their pursuit of ideals, constantly striving to improve themselves and others through perseverance and strength. This leader possesses the ability to inspire and bring out the best in those around them, shaping the world through their creative power.

Hexagram 1 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨,利贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Sublimely successful, furthering through perseverance in what is right.”

The Judgment emphasizes the importance of both creativity and persistence. The word 'sublime' refers to greatness, not just in terms of success but in the ability to create something meaningful and lasting. 'Perseverance in what is right' underlines the importance of ethical action. True success comes not just from power or ability, but from staying true to principles and following the right course, even when it is difficult. In practice, this means that those who receive this hexagram are being encouraged to persist in their endeavors, but only as long as they act with integrity. This is not a blind call for perseverance—it’s about remaining committed to a path of righteousness and making steady progress toward one’s goals.

Hexagram 1 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天行健,君子以自强不息。"
(Tiān xíng jiàn, jūn zǐ yǐ zì qiáng bù xī.)
English Translation:
“The movement of heaven is powerful. The superior person strengthens themselves and never stops.”

The image of heaven's constant, strong movement is a metaphor for both cosmic forces and human willpower. Just as the heavens never cease moving, the superior person must continuously work on self-improvement and inner strength. This implies a lifelong dedication to personal development, without giving in to laziness or complacency. In practical terms, this is a call for resilience and endurance. It suggests that by emulating the continuous motion of heaven, individuals can achieve great things over time. Success in life comes not from short bursts of effort, but from steady, long-term commitment to one's goals.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team