I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 20 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 6 to Hexagram 17
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 20.1.4.6 -> 17
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 4 Changing
"觀國之光，利用賓于王。"
(Guān guó zhī guāng, lì yòng bīn yú wáng.)
“Contemplating the radiance of the kingdom. It is beneficial to see the great person.”
This line speaks of observing the greatness of the kingdom or a powerful leader. By contemplating their example, one learns valuable lessons. It is beneficial to meet and follow the wisdom of the great person.
Line 6 Changing
"觀其生，君子无咎。"
(Guān qí shēng, jūn zǐ wú jiù.)
“Contemplation of their life. The superior person has no blame.”
This line speaks of observing the lives of others. The superior person gains insight by watching how others live, learning from their successes and mistakes. This observation leads to wisdom and success.
Changing to:
17. Following (隨 Suí)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
- Below
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 17
Hexagram 隨 (Suí) symbolizes following, adapting, and being flexible. This hexagram represents a time when it is wise to follow the flow of events, adapting to circumstances without trying to impose one's will. Success comes from flexibility and responsiveness.
Hexagram 17 Judgment
"隨，元亨，利貞，无咎。"
(Suí, yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wú jiù.)
“Following. Supreme success. Perseverance brings good fortune. No blame.”
This hexagram advises adaptability. By following the course of events and responding to circumstances with flexibility, one achieves success. It is important to remain committed to principles while being responsive to change.
Hexagram 17 Image
"澤中有雷，隨。君子以嚮晦入宴息。"
(Zé zhōng yǒu léi, suí. Jūn zǐ yǐ xiàng huì rù yàn xī.)
“Thunder within the lake: The image of Following. The superior person withdraws when the time is not right and rests.”
The image of thunder within the lake suggests a time of reflection and withdrawal. The superior person follows the course of events, knowing when to act and when to rest. It is important to conserve energy and wait for the right moment.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team