I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 2 with Changing Lines 2, 3 to Hexagram 46

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 2.2.3 -> 46

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 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.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"含章可贞。或从王事,无成有终。"
(Hán zhāng kě zhēn. Huò cóng wáng shì, wú chéng yǒu zhōng.)
English Translation:
“Hidden lines. One is able to remain persevering. If by chance you are in the service of a king, seek not works, but bring to completion.”

This line advises quiet perseverance and restraint. There is value in remaining unnoticed, focusing on completing one's work without seeking recognition or forcing premature action. If serving in a subordinate role, it is wise to contribute steadily and avoid seeking attention or credit. The focus should be on ensuring that what is started reaches completion, not on personal glory.

Changing to:

46. Pushing Upward (升 Shēng)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 46

Hexagram 升 (Shēng) represents upward progress, growth, and advancement. This hexagram speaks of steady, consistent effort to improve one's position or circumstances. Success comes from persistence, gradual advancement, and humility.

Hexagram 46 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"升,元亨,用見大人,勿恤,南征吉。"
(Shēng, yuán hēng, yòng jiàn dàrén, wù xù, nán zhēng jí.)
English Translation:
“Pushing Upward. Supreme success. It is favorable to see the great person. Do not worry. Going south brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises slow and steady progress toward one's goals. Success comes from seeking the guidance of a wise person, remaining patient, and advancing in a humble and deliberate manner. The direction south symbolizes a favorable course of action.

Hexagram 46 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地中生木,升。君子以順德,積小以高大。"
(Dì zhōng shēng mù, shēng. Jūn zǐ yǐ shùn dé, jī xiǎo yǐ gāo dà.)
English Translation:
“Wood grows up from the earth: The image of Pushing Upward. The superior person, by cultivating virtue, builds small things to achieve greatness.”

The image of wood growing from the earth symbolizes slow, steady growth. The superior person cultivates their character and gradually builds up small successes into great accomplishments. Patience and consistency are key.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team