I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 20 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 31
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 20.3.4.6 -> 31
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 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:
31. Influence (Wooing) (咸 Xián)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dui (Lake)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 31
Hexagram 咸 (Xián) symbolizes influence, attraction, and the power of mutual response. This hexagram speaks of relationships, attraction, and how one person or force influences another. Success comes from subtle influence rather than force.
Hexagram 31 Judgment
"咸，亨，利貞。取女吉。"
(Xián, hēng, lì zhēn. Qǔ nǚ jí.)
“Influence. Success. Perseverance furthers. Taking a wife brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises subtle influence and mutual attraction. Success comes from steady, gentle influence, not force. In relationships, like marriage, mutual respect and attraction bring good fortune.
Hexagram 31 Image
"山上有澤，咸。君子以虛受人。"
(Shān shàng yǒu zé, xián. Jūn zǐ yǐ xū shòu rén.)
“Lake on the mountain: The image of Influence. The superior person is open to receiving others.”
The image of the lake on the mountain represents openness and receptivity. The superior person, like the lake, is open to receiving others and is influenced by their surroundings. This receptiveness allows for mutual influence and growth.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team