I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 21 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 6 to Hexagram 40

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 21.1.2.6 -> 40

Old Yang Young Yin Young Yang Young Yin Old Yin Old Yang

21. Biting Through

Yin Yin Yang Yin Yang Yin

40. Deliverance

21. Biting Through (噬嗑 Shì Kè)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 21

Hexagram 噬嗑 (Shì Kè) represents biting through or confronting obstacles. This hexagram speaks of a time when forceful action is needed to break through resistance or obstacles, but it advises using this force with justice and wisdom.

Hexagram 21 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"噬嗑，亨。利用狱。"
(Shì kè, hēng. Lì yòng yù.)
English Translation:
“Biting through. Success. It is favorable to use legal proceedings.”

This hexagram describes a time for taking decisive action to resolve problems, like biting through tough material. Success comes from being firm yet fair, using justice or legal means to resolve disputes.

Hexagram 21 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷電噬嗑。先王以明罰勑法。"
(Léi diàn shì kè. Xiān wáng yǐ míng fá chì fǎ.)
English Translation:
“Thunder and lightning: The image of Biting Through. The ancient kings made laws clear and enforced punishments.”

The image of thunder and lightning represents swift and powerful force. The superior person uses this time to clarify laws and ensure that justice is served. It is a time for decisiveness in dealing with wrongdoing.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"屦校滅趾，无咎。"
(Jù xiào miè zhǐ, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Biting through the skin of the foot. No blame.”

This line describes a minor obstacle that is easily overcome. Though the situation may cause discomfort, it does not lead to blame or serious harm.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"噬膚滅鼻，无咎。"
(Shì fū miè bí, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Biting through the flesh of the nose. No blame.”

This line describes a more serious obstacle that requires firmness to overcome. By confronting the issue directly, one avoids blame. It advises strong but measured action.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"何校滅耳，凶。"
(Hé xiào miè ěr, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Biting through the hardened skin of the ear. Misfortune.”

This line warns of a situation where trying to force a solution leads to harm. The ear symbolizes listening and communication, and by biting through too aggressively, one may cause misfortune. It advises caution and balance.

Changing to:

40. Deliverance (解 Xiè)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☵ Kǎn (Water)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 40

Hexagram 解 (Xiè) symbolizes release from difficulty or deliverance. This hexagram speaks of a time when tensions ease, obstacles are removed, and liberation is possible. Success comes from seizing the opportunity to move forward after a period of difficulty.

Hexagram 40 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"解，利西南。无所往，其來復吉。有攸往，夙吉。"
(Xiè, lì xī nán. Wú suǒ wǎng, qí lái fù jí. Yǒu yōu wǎng, sù jí.)
English Translation:
“Deliverance. It is favorable to go southwest. If there is nothing to pursue, returning brings good fortune. If there is something to pursue, setting out early brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises taking advantage of the easing of difficulties to move forward. If there is nothing urgent to pursue, it is best to return and rest. However, if there is a goal, starting early brings success.

Hexagram 40 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷雨作，解。君子以赦過宥罪。"
(Léi yǔ zuò, xiè. Jūn zǐ yǐ shè guò yòu zuì.)
English Translation:
“Thunder and rain set in: The image of Deliverance. The superior person pardons mistakes and forgives offenses.”

The image of thunder and rain symbolizes the release of tension and the clearing away of obstacles. The superior person, in a time of deliverance, shows mercy and forgiveness, helping others to move forward.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team