I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 19 with Changing Lines 3, 5 to Hexagram 5

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 19.3.5 -> 5

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"臨,元亨,利貞。至于八月有凶。"
(Lín, yuán hēng, lì zhēn. Zhì yú bā yuè yǒu xiōng.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"甘臨,无攸利,既憂之,无咎。"
(Gān lín, wú yōu lì, jì yōu zhī, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"知臨,大君之宜,吉。"
(Zhī lín, dà jūn zhī yí, jí.)
English Translation:
“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.

Changing to:

5. Waiting (Nourishment) (需 Xū)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 5

Hexagram 需 (Xū) represents waiting or nourishing. It reflects a time when patience and perseverance are necessary to allow circumstances to unfold naturally. The image is of rain held in the clouds, which will eventually fall, nourishing the earth. In human terms, it advises readiness without rushing, cultivating inner strength while waiting for the right moment to act.

Hexagram 5 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚,光亨,贞吉。利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, guāng hēng, zhēn jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
English Translation:
“If you are sincere, you have light and success. Perseverance brings good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great water.”

This Judgment emphasizes the importance of sincerity and clarity during times of waiting. Success will come through perseverance and maintaining one's integrity. The phrase 'cross the great water' suggests a major challenge or journey that can be successfully undertaken if approached with patience and readiness.

Hexagram 5 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"云上于天,需。君子以饮食宴乐。"
(Yún shàng yú tiān, xū. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǐn shí yàn lè.)
English Translation:
“Clouds rise up to heaven: The image of Waiting. The superior person eats and drinks, is joyful and at ease.”

The image of clouds rising up to heaven indicates that rain is not yet falling. This represents a period of waiting before action. The superior person takes this time to enjoy life's simple pleasures—food, drink, and joy—without anxiety. It is a call to cultivate patience and inner peace while waiting for the right moment.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team