I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 16 with Changing Lines 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 33

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 16.3.5.6 -> 33

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 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:

33. Retreat (遯 Dùn)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 33

Hexagram 遯 (Dùn) symbolizes strategic retreat in the face of superior forces. This hexagram speaks of the wisdom in knowing when to withdraw and conserve strength rather than continue fighting a losing battle. Success comes from prudence and waiting for better conditions.

Hexagram 33 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"遯,亨。小利貞。"
(Dùn, hēng. Xiǎo lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Retreat. Success. Perseverance brings small gain.”

This hexagram advises a strategic retreat in the face of difficulties. Success comes from knowing when to pull back, rather than pushing forward in unfavorable conditions. Perseverance brings small but important gains.

Hexagram 33 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天下有山,遯。君子以遠小人,不惡而嚴。"
(Tiān xià yǒu shān, dùn. Jūn zǐ yǐ yuǎn xiǎo rén, bù è ér yán.)
English Translation:
“The mountain stands beneath heaven: The image of Retreat. The superior person keeps distant from inferior people without hatred but maintains dignity.”

The image of the mountain under heaven suggests a time for standing firm and maintaining distance. The superior person knows when to withdraw from negative influences while remaining dignified and unresentful.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team