I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 19 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 1
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 19.3.4.5.6 -> 1
19. Approach (臨 Lín)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☱ Dui (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 19
Hexagram 臨 (Lín) represents approach and the movement of something toward fulfillment or completion. It signals the coming of a new season or the start of a new phase. This hexagram advises careful preparation and foresight.
Hexagram 19 Judgment
"臨,元亨,利貞。至于八月有凶。"
(Lín, yuán hēng, lì zhēn. Zhì yú bā yuè yǒu xiōng.)
“Approach. Supreme success. Perseverance furthers. When the eighth month comes, there will be misfortune.”
This hexagram speaks of approaching success and a period of growth or renewal. However, it also warns that success must be tempered by caution. After a time of abundance (symbolized by the eighth month), challenges may arise. Preparation and foresight are key to sustaining success.
Hexagram 19 Image
"地上有澤,臨。君子以教思無窮,容保民无疆。"
(Dì shàng yǒu zé, lín. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiào sī wú qióng, róng bǎo mín wú jiāng.)
“The earth above the lake: The image of Approach. The superior person teaches and supports without limit, and nurtures the people without boundaries.”
The image of the earth rising above the lake symbolizes the approach of abundance and renewal. The superior person uses this time to nurture and educate others, helping to sustain growth for the long term.
Line 3 Changing
"甘臨,无攸利,既憂之,无咎。"
(Gān lín, wú yōu lì, jì yōu zhī, wú jiù.)
“Sweet approach. No advantage. Worry about it, but there is no blame.”
This line warns against approaching situations with excessive ease or overconfidence. While there is no immediate harm, it is wise to be cautious and avoid complacency. Concern about the situation ensures no blame.
Line 4 Changing
"至臨,无咎。"
(Zhì lín, wú jiù.)
“Approach in full confidence. No blame.”
This line advises confidence in one's approach. By acting with certainty and clarity of purpose, no harm or blame comes, and the way forward is smooth.
Line 5 Changing
"知臨,大君之宜,吉。"
(Zhī lín, dà jūn zhī yí, jí.)
“Wise approach. It is fitting for a great leader. Good fortune.”
This line describes the approach of a wise leader who understands the right time to act. Such a leader brings good fortune by combining wisdom with decisive action.
Line 6 Changing
"敦臨,吉,无咎。"
(Dūn lín, jí, wú jiù.)
“Generous approach. Good fortune. No blame.”
This line advises a generous and compassionate approach to others. By acting with kindness and understanding, good fortune comes, and no harm or blame follows.
Changing to:
1. The Creative (乾 Qián)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 1
Hexagram 乾 (Qián) represents the primal creative force of the universe. The unbroken lines symbolize pure yang energy—strong, forceful, and unyielding. This hexagram is associated with heaven, creativity, and powerful motion. In both the cosmos and human life, Qián refers to the energetic forces that initiate movement, development, and progress. It represents the continual, dynamic flow that drives change and growth. In human terms, Qián reflects the traits of a great leader or sage. It describes a person who is unrelenting in their pursuit of ideals, constantly striving to improve themselves and others through perseverance and strength. This leader possesses the ability to inspire and bring out the best in those around them, shaping the world through their creative power.
Hexagram 1 Judgment
"元亨,利贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn.)
“Sublimely successful, furthering through perseverance in what is right.”
The Judgment emphasizes the importance of both creativity and persistence. The word 'sublime' refers to greatness, not just in terms of success but in the ability to create something meaningful and lasting. 'Perseverance in what is right' underlines the importance of ethical action. True success comes not just from power or ability, but from staying true to principles and following the right course, even when it is difficult. In practice, this means that those who receive this hexagram are being encouraged to persist in their endeavors, but only as long as they act with integrity. This is not a blind call for perseverance—it’s about remaining committed to a path of righteousness and making steady progress toward one’s goals.
Hexagram 1 Image
"天行健,君子以自强不息。"
(Tiān xíng jiàn, jūn zǐ yǐ zì qiáng bù xī.)
“The movement of heaven is powerful. The superior person strengthens themselves and never stops.”
The image of heaven's constant, strong movement is a metaphor for both cosmic forces and human willpower. Just as the heavens never cease moving, the superior person must continuously work on self-improvement and inner strength. This implies a lifelong dedication to personal development, without giving in to laziness or complacency. In practical terms, this is a call for resilience and endurance. It suggests that by emulating the continuous motion of heaven, individuals can achieve great things over time. Success in life comes not from short bursts of effort, but from steady, long-term commitment to one's goals.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team