I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 21 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 60
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 21.2.4.5.6 -> 60
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 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.
Line 5 Changing
"噬乾肉，得黄金，貞厲，无咎。"
(Shì gān ròu, dé huáng jīn, zhēn lì, wú jiù.)
“Biting through dried meat. Finding yellow gold. Perseverance brings danger, but no blame.”
This line describes overcoming a difficult obstacle and discovering great value, symbolized by gold. While perseverance may involve some risk, there is no blame, and success is assured.
Line 6 Changing
"何校滅耳，凶。"
(Hé xiào miè ěr, xiōng.)
“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:
60. Limitation (節 Jié)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 60
Hexagram 節 (Jié) represents limitation or regulation, symbolizing the importance of setting boundaries and knowing one's limits. This hexagram speaks of the value of restraint and self-discipline. Success comes from moderation and controlling one's desires.
Hexagram 60 Judgment
"節，亨。苦節，不可貞。"
(Jié, hēng. Kǔ jié, bù kě zhēn.)
“Limitation. Success. Bitter limitation cannot be persevered in.”
This hexagram advises setting appropriate limits and exercising restraint, but warns against harsh or overly restrictive limitations. Success comes from moderation and flexibility, not from excessive control.
Hexagram 60 Image
"澤上有水，節。君子以制數度，議德行。"
(Zé shàng yǒu shuǐ, jié. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhì shù dù, yì dé xíng.)
“Water over the lake: The image of Limitation. The superior person establishes measures and limits and discusses virtue and conduct.”
The image of water over the lake represents the need to contain and regulate resources. The superior person, like the lake, sets clear boundaries and guidelines, ensuring that everything is kept in balance. Success comes from clear regulations and virtuous conduct.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team