I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 17 with Changing Lines 2, 5 to Hexagram 54

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 17.2.5 -> 54

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

17. Following

Yin Yin Yang Yin Yang Yang

54. The Marrying Maiden

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 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:

54. The Marrying Maiden (歸妹 Guī Mèi)

Trigrams

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

The Symbolism of Hexagram 54

Hexagram 歸妹 (Guī Mèi) represents the marrying maiden, symbolizing the secondary role and the idea of following established protocols. This hexagram speaks of relationships where one may not have full autonomy, requiring adaptation. Success comes from understanding one's position and accepting supportive roles.

Hexagram 54 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"歸妹，征凶，无攸利。"
(Guī Mèi, zhēng xiōng, wú yōu lì.)
English Translation:
“The Marrying Maiden. Going forward brings misfortune. Nothing is favorable.”

This hexagram advises caution in advancing into a situation where one lacks full authority or power, as misfortune may follow. It speaks of accepting limitations and adapting to circumstances without overreaching.

Hexagram 54 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤上有雷，歸妹。君子以永終知敝。"
(Zé shàng yǒu léi, guī mèi. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǒng zhōng zhī bì.)
English Translation:
“Thunder over the lake: The image of The Marrying Maiden. The superior person is careful about endings and recognizes the imperfection of things.”

The image of thunder over the lake symbolizes a situation of imbalance, where one must adapt to changing conditions. The superior person understands that all things are temporary and imperfect, leading to wisdom and balance.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team