I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 17 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 41
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 17.2.4.5.6 -> 41
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
"隨，元亨，利貞，无咎。"
(Suí, yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wú jiù.)
“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
"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.)
“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
"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.)
“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 4 Changing
"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.)
“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
"孚于嘉，吉。"
(Fú yú jiā, jí.)
“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
"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.)
“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:
41. Decrease (損 Sǔn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 41
Hexagram 損 (Sǔn) represents decrease or reduction. This hexagram speaks of a time when one must let go of excess or make sacrifices in order to achieve balance. Success comes from willingly accepting limitations and making wise reductions.
Hexagram 41 Judgment
"損，有孚，元吉，無咎。可貞，利有攸往。"
(Sǔn, yǒu fú, yuán jí, wú jiù. Kě zhēn, lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Decrease. There is sincerity. Great good fortune. No blame. Perseverance furthers. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.”
This hexagram advises willingly accepting decrease or sacrifice. Success comes from maintaining sincerity and making wise reductions. By persevering through this period of decrease, one finds good fortune and is able to move forward.
Hexagram 41 Image
"山下有澤，損。君子以懲忿窒欲。"
(Shān xià yǒu zé, sǔn. Jūn zǐ yǐ chéng fèn zhì yù.)
“There is a lake beneath the mountain: The image of Decrease. The superior person controls anger and restrains desires.”
The image of a lake under a mountain represents a time of decrease or limitation. The superior person, like the mountain holding back the lake, controls their emotions and desires, accepting the need for restraint.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team