I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 17 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 46

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 17.1.2.3.4.5 -> 46

Young Yin Old Yang Old Yang Old Yin Old Yin Old Yang

17. Following

Yin Yin Yin Yang Yang Yin

46. Pushing Upward

17. Following (隨 Suí)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Dùi (Lake)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 17

Hexagram 隨 (Suí) symbolizes following, adapting, and being flexible. This hexagram represents a time when it is wise to follow the flow of events, adapting to circumstances without trying to impose one's will. Success comes from flexibility and responsiveness.

Hexagram 17 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"隨，元亨，利貞，无咎。"
(Suí, yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Following. Supreme success. Perseverance brings good fortune. No blame.”

This hexagram advises adaptability. By following the course of events and responding to circumstances with flexibility, one achieves success. It is important to remain committed to principles while being responsive to change.

Hexagram 17 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤中有雷，隨。君子以嚮晦入宴息。"
(Zé zhōng yǒu léi, suí. Jūn zǐ yǐ xiàng huì rù yàn xī.)
English Translation:
“Thunder within the lake: The image of Following. The superior person withdraws when the time is not right and rests.”

The image of thunder within the lake suggests a time of reflection and withdrawal. The superior person follows the course of events, knowing when to act and when to rest. It is important to conserve energy and wait for the right moment.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"係小子，失丈夫。"
(Xì xiǎo zǐ, shī zhàng fū.)
English Translation:
“Tied to the little boy. Losing the man.”

This line warns against following the wrong leader or influence. By attaching oneself to those who are inexperienced or immature, one risks losing the support of those who are wiser or more capable.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"係丈夫，失小子。隨有求得，利居貞。"
(Xì zhàng fū, shī xiǎo zǐ. Suí yǒu qiú dé, lì jū zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Tied to the man. Losing the little boy. Following brings benefit. It is favorable to remain steadfast.”

This line advises following a capable leader while letting go of lesser influences. In doing so, one gains what they seek, and steadfastness brings good fortune.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"係小子，吝，有咎。"
(Xì xiǎo zǐ, lìn, yǒu jiù.)
English Translation:
“Tied to the little boy. Misfortune and blame.”

This line warns of the dangers of relying on those who are immature or inexperienced. Following the wrong person leads to regret and blame.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"隨有獲，貞凶。有孚在道，以明，何咎。"
(Suí yǒu huò, zhēn xiōng. Yǒu fú zài dào, yǐ míng, hé jiù.)
English Translation:
“Following with gain. Perseverance leads to misfortune. If sincerity is present, no blame.”

This line suggests that while following may bring gains, it can lead to misfortune if one is not careful. However, if sincerity and clarity guide the way, one can avoid blame.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"孚于嘉，吉。"
(Fú yú jiā, jí.)
English Translation:
“Sincerity in following brings good fortune.”

This line advises sincerity and good intentions in following others. With these qualities, good fortune is assured.

Changing to:

46. Pushing Upward (升 Shēng)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 46

Hexagram 升 (Shēng) represents upward progress, growth, and advancement. This hexagram speaks of steady, consistent effort to improve one's position or circumstances. Success comes from persistence, gradual advancement, and humility.

Hexagram 46 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"升，元亨，用見大人，勿恤，南征吉。"
(Shēng, yuán hēng, yòng jiàn dàrén, wù xù, nán zhēng jí.)
English Translation:
“Pushing Upward. Supreme success. It is favorable to see the great person. Do not worry. Going south brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises slow and steady progress toward one's goals. Success comes from seeking the guidance of a wise person, remaining patient, and advancing in a humble and deliberate manner. The direction south symbolizes a favorable course of action.

Hexagram 46 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地中生木，升。君子以順德，積小以高大。"
(Dì zhōng shēng mù, shēng. Jūn zǐ yǐ shùn dé, jī xiǎo yǐ gāo dà.)
English Translation:
“Wood grows up from the earth: The image of Pushing Upward. The superior person, by cultivating virtue, builds small things to achieve greatness.”

The image of wood growing from the earth symbolizes slow, steady growth. The superior person cultivates their character and gradually builds up small successes into great accomplishments. Patience and consistency are key.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team