I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 2 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 56
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 2.3.4.6 -> 56
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
"元亨,利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
“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
"地势坤,君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
“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 3 Changing
"含章可贞。或从王事,无成有终。"
(Hán zhāng kě zhēn. Huò cóng wáng shì, wú chéng yǒu zhōng.)
“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.
Line 4 Changing
"括囊,无咎无誉。"
(Guā náng, wú jiù wú yù.)
“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.
Line 6 Changing
"龙战于野,其血玄黄。"
(Lóng zhàn yú yě, qí xuè xuán huáng.)
“Dragons fight in the meadow. Their blood is black and yellow.”
This line symbolizes conflict between opposing forces, represented by dragons (yang energy) clashing in the meadow (a neutral space). The black and yellow blood indicates that both sides (creative and receptive) are injured by the conflict. This serves as a warning against pushing too hard or striving for dominance in situations where balance and harmony are required.
Changing to:
56. The Wanderer (旅 Lǚ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 56
Hexagram 旅 (Lǚ) represents the wanderer, one who travels and is not rooted in a single place. This hexagram speaks of a time when one must adapt to unfamiliar circumstances, relying on resourcefulness and resilience. Success comes from knowing when to move on and how to navigate changing environments.
Hexagram 56 Judgment
"旅,小亨,旅貞吉。"
(Lǚ, xiǎo hēng, lǚ zhēn jí.)
“The Wanderer. Small success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the wanderer.”
This hexagram advises that while traveling or navigating unfamiliar situations, success comes from perseverance and adaptability. Although the progress may be small, by remaining flexible and resourceful, good fortune follows.
Hexagram 56 Image
"山上有火,旅。君子以明慎用刑,而不留狱。"
(Shān shàng yǒu huǒ, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ míng shèn yòng xíng, ér bù liú yù.)
“Fire on the mountain: The image of The Wanderer. The superior person is clear-minded and careful in the use of punishment, avoiding holding prisoners for long.”
The image of fire on the mountain represents a time of transience and impermanence. The superior person, like the wanderer, remains clear-minded and cautious, taking decisive action but not becoming too attached to any single place or situation.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team