I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 20 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 56
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 20.3.4.5 -> 56
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 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.
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 5 Changing
"觀我生，君子无咎。"
(Guān wǒ shēng, jūn zǐ wú jiù.)
“Contemplation of one’s life. The superior person has no blame.”
This line describes a superior person who reflects on their life and actions with clarity and honesty. By doing so, they avoid blame and make wise decisions.
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