I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 22 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 54

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 22.2.3.4.6 -> 54

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"賁,亨,小利有攸往。"
(Bì, hēng, xiǎo lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"賁其須。"
(Bì qí xū.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"賁如濡如,永貞吉。"
(Bì rú rú rú, yǒng zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“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.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"賁如皤如,白馬翰如,匪寇婚媾。"
(Bì rú bó rú, bái mǎ hàn rú, fěi kòu hūn gòu.)
English Translation:
“Grace that is plain and white. The white horse comes swiftly. It is not a bandit, but a suitor.”

This line suggests that simplicity and purity are forms of grace. A swift arrival, like that of a white horse, represents a positive change. It reassures that what seems sudden is not threatening but brings good fortune, like a suitor seeking union.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"白賁,无咎。"
(Bái bì, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Pure grace. No blame.”

This line describes the highest form of grace—pure, unadorned beauty. It advises simplicity and authenticity, which leads to a state without blame or reproach. True grace comes from within.

Changing to:

54. The Marrying Maiden (歸妹 Guī Mèi)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☱ Dùi (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 54

Hexagram 歸妹 (Guī Mèi) represents the marrying maiden, symbolizing the secondary role and the idea of following established protocols. This hexagram speaks of relationships where one may not have full autonomy, requiring adaptation. Success comes from understanding one's position and accepting supportive roles.

Hexagram 54 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"歸妹,征凶,无攸利。"
(Guī Mèi, zhēng xiōng, wú yōu lì.)
English Translation:
“The Marrying Maiden. Going forward brings misfortune. Nothing is favorable.”

This hexagram advises caution in advancing into a situation where one lacks full authority or power, as misfortune may follow. It speaks of accepting limitations and adapting to circumstances without overreaching.

Hexagram 54 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤上有雷,歸妹。君子以永終知敝。"
(Zé shàng yǒu léi, guī mèi. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǒng zhōng zhī bì.)
English Translation:
“Thunder over the lake: The image of The Marrying Maiden. The superior person is careful about endings and recognizes the imperfection of things.”

The image of thunder over the lake symbolizes a situation of imbalance, where one must adapt to changing conditions. The superior person understands that all things are temporary and imperfect, leading to wisdom and balance.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team