I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 17 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 22
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 17.3.4.5.6 -> 22
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 3 Changing
"係小子，吝，有咎。"
(Xì xiǎo zǐ, lìn, yǒu jiù.)
“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
"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:
22. Grace (賁 Bì)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 22
Hexagram 賁 (Bì) represents grace, beauty, and adornment. This hexagram speaks of the power of beauty and form in enhancing life. Grace does not replace substance but enhances it.
Hexagram 22 Judgment
"賁，亨，小利有攸往。"
(Bì, hēng, xiǎo lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Grace brings success. It is not favorable to take large ventures; small ventures are beneficial.”
This hexagram advises focusing on grace and beauty in one's actions. Small, careful ventures bring success. The hexagram suggests that too much focus on appearance can lead to problems unless substance and action are in balance.
Hexagram 22 Image
"山下有火，賁。君子以明庶政，无敢折獄。"
(Shān xià yǒu huǒ, bì. Jūn zǐ yǐ míng shù zhèng, wú gǎn zhé yù.)
“Fire at the foot of the mountain: The image of Grace. The superior person brings clarity to governance but does not make final judgments.”
The image of fire at the base of the mountain represents the beauty and clarity that come from grace. The superior person focuses on clarity and transparency in governance but does not rush into decisions or judgments.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team