I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 2 with Changing Lines 1, 4 to Hexagram 51

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 2.1.4 -> 51

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

2. The Receptive

Yin Yin Yang Yin Yin Yang

51. The Arousing

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 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"括囊，无咎无誉。"
(Guā náng, wú jiù wú yù.)
English Translation:
“A tied-up sack. No blame, no praise.”

This line suggests the importance of restraint and discretion. The 'tied-up sack' represents keeping one’s thoughts or actions hidden from view. In situations where the timing is not right, it is wise to remain silent or inactive. There is no fault in maintaining a low profile during uncertain times, as it prevents drawing unwanted attention or conflict.

Changing to:

51. The Arousing (震 Zhèn)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 51

Hexagram 震 (Zhèn) represents the arousing power of thunder. This hexagram speaks of sudden shocks or disturbances that cause fear but also inspire movement and change. Success comes from responding to challenges with clarity and decisive action.

Hexagram 51 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"震，亨。震來虩虩，笑言啞啞。震驚百里，不喪匕鬯。"
(Zhèn, hēng. Zhèn lái xì xì, xiào yán yǎ yǎ. Zhèn jīng bǎi lǐ, bù sàng bǐ chàng.)
English Translation:
“The Arousing. Success. Thunder comes with a terrifying roar. Laughter and conversation follow. The shock spreads over a hundred miles, but the sacrificial vessels are not spilled.”

This hexagram advises staying calm and composed in the face of sudden challenges or shocks. While the initial disturbance may cause fear, success comes from remaining centered and not letting the shock disrupt important matters.

Hexagram 51 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"洊雷，震。君子以恐懼修省。"
(Jiàn léi, zhèn. Jūn zǐ yǐ kǒng jù xiū xǐng.)
English Translation:
“Thunder repeated: The image of The Arousing. The superior person examines themselves with fear and caution.”

The image of repeated thunder symbolizes the need to stay alert and cautious. The superior person, like thunder, remains aware of potential dangers and uses self-examination to avoid mistakes. Caution leads to success.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team