I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 17 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 9

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 17.2.3.4.6 -> 9

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

17. Following

Yang Yang Yin Yang Yang Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

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 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:

9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 9

Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.

Hexagram 9 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
English Translation:
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”

This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.

Hexagram 9 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”

The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team