I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 22 with Changing Lines 2, 5 to Hexagram 9

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 22.2.5 -> 9

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

22. Grace

Yang Yang Yin Yang Yang Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"賁于丘園，束帛戔戔，吝，終吉。"
(Bì yú qiū yuán, shù bó jiān jiān, lìn, zhōng jí.)
English Translation:
“Grace in the hills and gardens. Small bundles of silk. Some regret, but in the end, good fortune.”

This line speaks of grace in simple, natural surroundings. Even though one may feel limited or constrained, the simplicity brings eventual good fortune. Natural beauty and humility bring success in the end.

Changing to:

9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 9

Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.

Hexagram 9 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
English Translation:
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”

This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.

Hexagram 9 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”

The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team