I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 18 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 40
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 18.3.4.6 -> 40
18. Work on What Has Been Spoiled (蠱 Gǔ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 18
Hexagram 蠱 (Gǔ) symbolizes decay or corruption. This hexagram indicates a time when things have gone wrong, and one must work to repair and restore order. It speaks of correcting past mistakes and addressing harmful influences.
Hexagram 18 Judgment
"蠱，元亨，利涉大川。先甲三日，後甲三日。"
(Gǔ, yuán hēng, lì shè dà chuān. Xiān jiǎ sān rì, hòu jiǎ sān rì.)
“Work on what has been spoiled. Supreme success. It is favorable to cross the great water. Before the new beginning, three days; after the new beginning, three days.”
This hexagram suggests that addressing past mistakes leads to supreme success. It advises starting fresh, but careful preparation and reflection are necessary before moving forward. This process takes time but brings great reward.
Hexagram 18 Image
"風行山上，蠱。君子以振民育德。"
(Fēng xíng shān shàng, gǔ. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhèn mín yù dé.)
“The wind blows across the mountain: The image of Decay. The superior person stirs the people and nourishes virtue.”
The wind on the mountain represents the force of decay and the need for restoration. The superior person takes action to correct the situation, helping to revive the people and nourish their virtues. This is a time for renewal.
Line 3 Changing
"干父之蠱，小有悔，无大咎。"
(Gàn fù zhī gǔ, xiǎo yǒu huǐ, wú dà jiù.)
“Correcting the decay caused by the father. Minor regrets, but no great blame.”
This line describes minor setbacks or regrets in the process of correction. However, by continuing to address the problem, no great harm is done.
Line 4 Changing
"裕父之蠱，往见吝。"
(Yù fù zhī gǔ, wǎng jiàn lìn.)
“Allowing the decay caused by the father to continue. Going forward leads to regret.”
This line warns against failing to address inherited problems. Allowing issues to persist without correction leads to regret. It advises taking action to restore balance.
Line 6 Changing
"不事王侯，高尚其事。"
(Bù shì wáng hóu, gāo shàng qí shì.)
“He does not serve kings and princes, but elevates his own calling.”
This line speaks of transcending worldly concerns and focusing on higher values. By refusing to serve power for personal gain, the person achieves a higher purpose and success in their own right.
Changing to:
40. Deliverance (解 Xiè)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 40
Hexagram 解 (Xiè) symbolizes release from difficulty or deliverance. This hexagram speaks of a time when tensions ease, obstacles are removed, and liberation is possible. Success comes from seizing the opportunity to move forward after a period of difficulty.
Hexagram 40 Judgment
"解，利西南。无所往，其來復吉。有攸往，夙吉。"
(Xiè, lì xī nán. Wú suǒ wǎng, qí lái fù jí. Yǒu yōu wǎng, sù jí.)
“Deliverance. It is favorable to go southwest. If there is nothing to pursue, returning brings good fortune. If there is something to pursue, setting out early brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises taking advantage of the easing of difficulties to move forward. If there is nothing urgent to pursue, it is best to return and rest. However, if there is a goal, starting early brings success.
Hexagram 40 Image
"雷雨作，解。君子以赦過宥罪。"
(Léi yǔ zuò, xiè. Jūn zǐ yǐ shè guò yòu zuì.)
“Thunder and rain set in: The image of Deliverance. The superior person pardons mistakes and forgives offenses.”
The image of thunder and rain symbolizes the release of tension and the clearing away of obstacles. The superior person, in a time of deliverance, shows mercy and forgiveness, helping others to move forward.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team