I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 17 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 26

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 17.2.3.4.5.6 -> 26

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 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.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"拘係之,乃從維之,王用亨于西山。"
(Jū xì zhī, nǎi cóng wéi zhī, wáng yòng hēng yú xī shān.)
English Translation:
“Bound with ropes, yet following. The king sacrifices on the western mountain.”

This line speaks of a situation where one is restricted or bound but still chooses to follow. The king’s sacrifice symbolizes the importance of humility and devotion in difficult circumstances.

Changing to:

26. The Taming Power of the Great (大畜 Dà Chù)

Trigrams

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

The Symbolism of Hexagram 26

Hexagram 大畜 (Dà Chù) represents the power of restraint and control over great forces. This hexagram speaks of holding back powerful forces for the right time. Success comes from patience, wisdom, and self-control.

Hexagram 26 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"大畜,利貞。不家食,吉。利涉大川。"
(Dà chù, lì zhēn. Bù jiā shí, jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
English Translation:
“The Taming Power of the Great. Perseverance furthers. It is favorable not to eat at home. It is favorable to cross the great water.”

This hexagram advises perseverance and restraint. It is not a time for indulgence, but rather for preparation and control. Success comes from being patient and waiting for the right moment to act.

Hexagram 26 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天在山中,大畜。君子以多識前言往行,以畜其德。"
(Tiān zài shān zhōng, dà chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ duō shí qián yán wǎng xíng, yǐ chù qí dé.)
English Translation:
“Heaven within the mountain: The image of The Taming Power of the Great. The superior person studies the words and deeds of the past to strengthen their character.”

The image of heaven within the mountain suggests that great power is being restrained and controlled. The superior person uses this time to reflect on past wisdom and experience, cultivating their inner strength.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team