I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 22 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3 to Hexagram 4
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 22.1.2.3 -> 4
22. Grace (賁 Bì)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 22
Hexagram 賁 (Bì) represents grace, beauty, and adornment. This hexagram speaks of the power of beauty and form in enhancing life. Grace does not replace substance but enhances it.
Hexagram 22 Judgment
"賁，亨，小利有攸往。"
(Bì, hēng, xiǎo lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Grace brings success. It is not favorable to take large ventures; small ventures are beneficial.”
This hexagram advises focusing on grace and beauty in one's actions. Small, careful ventures bring success. The hexagram suggests that too much focus on appearance can lead to problems unless substance and action are in balance.
Hexagram 22 Image
"山下有火，賁。君子以明庶政，无敢折獄。"
(Shān xià yǒu huǒ, bì. Jūn zǐ yǐ míng shù zhèng, wú gǎn zhé yù.)
“Fire at the foot of the mountain: The image of Grace. The superior person brings clarity to governance but does not make final judgments.”
The image of fire at the base of the mountain represents the beauty and clarity that come from grace. The superior person focuses on clarity and transparency in governance but does not rush into decisions or judgments.
Line 1 Changing
"賁其趾，舍車而徒。"
(Bì qí zhǐ, shě chē ér tú.)
“Grace in the feet. Abandoning the carriage and walking.”
This line advises simplicity and humility. By focusing on the basics (grace in the feet), one should proceed without unnecessary embellishments or complications. Success comes from simplicity and straightforwardness.
Line 2 Changing
"賁其須。"
(Bì qí xū.)
“Grace in the beard.”
This line speaks of external grace, focusing on appearance. It suggests that attention to how one presents oneself to the world is important, but it should not be overemphasized. Balance is key.
Line 3 Changing
"賁如濡如，永貞吉。"
(Bì rú rú rú, yǒng zhēn jí.)
“Grace that comes gradually. Perseverance brings good fortune.”
This line describes a gradual unfolding of grace. It advises perseverance and consistency, allowing beauty and clarity to develop over time. By remaining true to oneself, good fortune will follow.
Changing to:
4. Youthful Folly (蒙 Méng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 4
Hexagram 蒙 (Méng) represents youthful folly, the state of ignorance and inexperience. It symbolizes the early stages of development when one lacks knowledge or wisdom and requires guidance. Youthful Folly encourages learning, seeking instruction, and being open to correction in order to grow and mature.
Hexagram 4 Judgment
"发蒙，利用刑人，用说桎梏，以往吝。"
(Fā méng, lì yòng xíng rén, yòng shuō zhì gù, yǐ wǎng lìn.)
“Youthful folly has success. It is not I who seek the young fool, but the young fool who seeks me. At the first oracle, I inform him. If he asks two or three times, it is importunity. If he importunes, I give him no information. Perseverance furthers.”
Youthful folly represents a lack of knowledge and understanding, which can only be overcome through learning. The judgment advises that one should seek wisdom rather than passively wait for it. At the same time, if someone repeatedly asks the same question without making an effort to learn, their behavior is considered importunate, and they will not receive further instruction. Success comes through the sincere pursuit of knowledge and perseverance.
Hexagram 4 Image
"山下出泉，蒙。君子以果行育德。"
(Shān xià chū quán, méng. Jūn zǐ yǐ guǒ xíng yù dé.)
“A spring wells up at the foot of the mountain: The image of Youthful Folly. The superior person fosters character by thoroughly carrying out his or her resolve.”
The image of a spring beneath the mountain suggests that wisdom and clarity are hidden beneath the surface, much like how a youth must grow and develop in character before wisdom can emerge. The superior person fosters their development by persistently acting on their resolve, committing to a path of learning and self-improvement.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team