I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 18 with Changing Lines 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 29
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 18.3.5.6 -> 29
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 5 Changing
"干父之蠱，用誉。"
(Gàn fù zhī gǔ, yòng yù.)
“Correcting the decay caused by the father. This brings praise.”
This line describes successfully addressing past mistakes and restoring order. The person is praised for their efforts, and success follows.
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:
29. The Abysmal (Water) (坎 Kǎn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 29
Hexagram 坎 (Kǎn) symbolizes danger, difficulty, and the need to navigate through perilous situations. This hexagram speaks of repeated challenges and the need for resilience and wisdom in order to move through difficulties successfully.
Hexagram 29 Judgment
"習坎，有孚，維心亨，行有尚。"
(Xí kǎn, yǒu fú, wéi xīn hēng, xíng yǒu shàng.)
“The Abysmal repeated. If you are sincere, you have success in your heart, and whatever you do has merit.”
This hexagram speaks of repeated dangers, symbolized by water that constantly flows and faces obstacles. Success comes from being sincere and steady in the face of these challenges. Inner strength and determination bring merit and success.
Hexagram 29 Image
"水流至坎，習坎。君子以常德行，習教事。"
(Shuǐ liú zhì kǎn, xí kǎn. Jūn zǐ yǐ cháng dé xíng, xí jiào shì.)
“Water flows into the abyss: The image of The Abysmal. The superior person cultivates virtue and continues their teaching.”
The image of water flowing into the abyss represents constant challenges. The superior person uses these challenges to cultivate inner strength and virtue, continuing their teaching and work despite difficulties.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team