I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 2 with Changing Lines 4, 5 to Hexagram 45

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 2.4.5 -> 45

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

2. The Receptive

Yin Yang Yang Yin Yin Yin

45. Gathering Together

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 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.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"黄裳，元吉。"
(Huáng cháng, yuán jí.)
English Translation:
“A yellow lower garment brings supreme good fortune.”

Yellow is the color of the earth, symbolizing humility and simplicity. The 'yellow lower garment' represents modesty and unobtrusiveness. This line advises that when in a supportive role, true success comes from acting with humility and remaining grounded. Good fortune will follow those who act with genuine sincerity, avoiding ostentation or ambition.

Changing to:

45. Gathering Together (萃 Cuì)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Dùi (Lake)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 45

Hexagram 萃 (Cuì) represents gathering together or assembling. This hexagram speaks of the strength and unity that come from collective efforts. Success comes from mutual support, working toward a common goal, and joining forces to overcome challenges.

Hexagram 45 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"萃，亨。王假有廟，利見大人，亨，利貞。"
(Cuì, hēng. Wáng jiǎ yǒu miào, lì jiàn dàrén, hēng, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Gathering Together. Success. The king approaches his temple. It is favorable to meet the great person. Success. Perseverance furthers.”

This hexagram advises coming together for a common purpose. Success comes from collective efforts and seeking wise counsel. The image of the king approaching the temple symbolizes the importance of ritual, tradition, and collective harmony.

Hexagram 45 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤上于地，萃。君子以除戎器，戒不虞。"
(Zé shàng yú dì, cuì. Jūn zǐ yǐ chú róng qì, jiè bù yú.)
English Translation:
“The lake rises up to the earth: The image of Gathering Together. The superior person takes up weapons of war and guards against unexpected attacks.”

The image of the lake rising to the earth symbolizes unity and preparation. The superior person remains vigilant and prepared, guarding against unforeseen dangers, while fostering harmony and unity within the group.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team