I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 2 with Changing Lines 1, 2 to Hexagram 19

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 2.1.2 -> 19

Young Yin Young Yin Young Yin Young Yin Old Yin Old Yin

2. The Receptive

Yin Yin Yin Yin Yang Yang

19. Approach

2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 2

Hexagram 坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.

Hexagram 2 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨，利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.”

The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.

Hexagram 2 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地势坤，君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
English Translation:
“The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world.”

The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"履霜，坚冰至。"
(Lǚ shuāng, jiān bīng zhì.)
English Translation:
“When there is hoarfrost underfoot, solid ice is not far off.”

This line symbolizes the beginning stages of change. The first signs of cold (hoarfrost) signal the coming of winter (solid ice). In life, this means that small, early signs of change or difficulty should not be ignored, as they foreshadow larger issues. By recognizing these early signs, one can take action to prepare and avoid greater challenges ahead.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"直方大，不习无不利。"
(Zhí fāng dà, bù xí wú bù lì.)
English Translation:
“Straight, square, great. Without purpose, yet nothing remains unfurthered.”

This line emphasizes the qualities of firmness, stability, and reliability, symbolized by the earth’s form. The superior person acts in accordance with these principles, achieving greatness without forcing or pursuing specific outcomes. This suggests that by being true to one's nature and adhering to fundamental principles, success comes naturally, without striving or pushing.

Changing to:

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.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team