I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 21 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 26
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 21.2.3.4 -> 26
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
"噬嗑，亨。利用狱。"
(Shì kè, hēng. Lì yòng yù.)
“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
"雷電噬嗑。先王以明罰勑法。"
(Léi diàn shì kè. Xiān wáng yǐ míng fá chì fǎ.)
“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 2 Changing
"噬膚滅鼻，无咎。"
(Shì fū miè bí, wú jiù.)
“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 3 Changing
"噬腊肉，遇毒。小吝，无咎。"
(Shì là ròu, yù dú. Xiǎo lìn, wú jiù.)
“Biting into dried meat and meeting with poison. Small misfortune, but no blame.”
This line describes a situation where an obstacle contains hidden danger. While there may be some misfortune, careful handling ensures no lasting harm. It advises caution and vigilance.
Line 4 Changing
"噬干胏，得金矢，利艱貞，吉。"
(Shì gān zī, dé jīn shǐ, lì jiān zhēn, jí.)
“Biting through lean meat. Finding a metal arrowhead. Perseverance through difficulty brings good fortune.”
This line speaks of facing a difficult challenge and discovering a valuable lesson or tool in the process. Perseverance in the face of difficulty leads to success and good fortune.
Changing to:
26. The Taming Power of the Great (大畜 Dà Chù)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 26
Hexagram 大畜 (Dà Chù) represents the power of restraint and control over great forces. This hexagram speaks of holding back powerful forces for the right time. Success comes from patience, wisdom, and self-control.
Hexagram 26 Judgment
"大畜，利貞。不家食，吉。利涉大川。"
(Dà chù, lì zhēn. Bù jiā shí, jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
“The Taming Power of the Great. Perseverance furthers. It is favorable not to eat at home. It is favorable to cross the great water.”
This hexagram advises perseverance and restraint. It is not a time for indulgence, but rather for preparation and control. Success comes from being patient and waiting for the right moment to act.
Hexagram 26 Image
"天在山中，大畜。君子以多識前言往行，以畜其德。"
(Tiān zài shān zhōng, dà chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ duō shí qián yán wǎng xíng, yǐ chù qí dé.)
“Heaven within the mountain: The image of The Taming Power of the Great. The superior person studies the words and deeds of the past to strengthen their character.”
The image of heaven within the mountain suggests that great power is being restrained and controlled. The superior person uses this time to reflect on past wisdom and experience, cultivating their inner strength.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team