I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 20 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3 to Hexagram 9
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 20.1.2.3 -> 9
20. Contemplation (觀 Guān)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 20
Hexagram 觀 (Guān) symbolizes contemplation and observation. This hexagram represents a time to pause and reflect, gaining insight through careful observation rather than immediate action.
Hexagram 20 Judgment
"觀，盥而不薦，有孚顒若。"
(Guān, guàn ér bù jiàn, yǒu fú yǒng ruò.)
“Contemplation. Washing the hands, but not making an offering. With sincerity and awareness, clarity comes.”
This hexagram speaks of taking time to reflect before making decisions or taking action. By cultivating sincerity and careful observation, clarity and insight are gained. It advises patience and deep contemplation.
Hexagram 20 Image
"風行地上，觀。先王以省方，觀民設教。"
(Fēng xíng dì shàng, guān. Xiān wáng yǐ xǐng fāng, guān mín shè jiào.)
“The wind blows over the earth: The image of Contemplation. The ancient kings made tours of inspection to observe the people and teach them.”
The wind blowing over the earth symbolizes the power of observation. The superior person uses this time to observe, learn, and understand, much like the ancient kings who traveled to see the state of their people and teach them accordingly.
Line 1 Changing
"童觀，小人无咎，君子吝。"
(Tóng guān, xiǎo rén wú jiù, jūn zǐ lìn.)
“Childlike contemplation. For the inferior person, no blame. For the superior person, regret.”
This line warns against naive or superficial contemplation. While it may cause no harm to those who are inexperienced, it brings regret for the superior person, who should strive for deeper insight.
Line 2 Changing
"闚觀，利女貞。"
(Kuī guān, lì nǚ zhēn.)
“Contemplation from the outside. It is favorable for the perseverance of a woman.”
This line suggests observation from a distance or limited perspective. For a woman, this type of perseverance may bring success. It advises careful, indirect observation before taking action.
Line 3 Changing
"觀我生，進退。"
(Guān wǒ shēng, jìn tuì.)
“Contemplation of one’s own life. Advancing or retreating.”
This line speaks of introspection and self-reflection. The person contemplates their own life and actions, deciding whether to advance or retreat based on what they see. It advises careful self-examination.
Changing to:
9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 9
Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.
Hexagram 9 Judgment
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”
This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.
Hexagram 9 Image
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”
The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team