I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 22 with Changing Lines 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 3

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 22.3.5.6 -> 3

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 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 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.

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:

3. Difficulty at the Beginning (屯 Zhūn)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 3

Hexagram 屯 (Zhūn) symbolizes difficulty and confusion at the beginning of a new venture. It represents the struggles encountered at the outset of creation or development. Like sprouting seeds pushing through the soil, progress is slow, uncertain, and requires persistence. Zhūn encourages perseverance in the face of obstacles and advises careful planning and patience in the early stages. This hexagram illustrates that chaos often precedes order, and that new beginnings, though difficult, are full of potential once obstacles are overcome.

Hexagram 3 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨,利贞,勿用有攸往,利建侯。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng, lì jiàn hóu.)
English Translation:
“Sublime success. Perseverance furthers. Do not act in haste; it is favorable to establish lords.”

The judgment emphasizes that despite the initial difficulties, success is possible through perseverance. Acting hastily or impulsively is discouraged. The mention of establishing lords represents the need for careful organization, strategic planning, and forming alliances. It suggests the importance of solid foundations before advancing, as well as surrounding oneself with trusted individuals or a supportive network in times of hardship.

Hexagram 3 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"云雷,屯。君子以经纶。"
(Yún léi, zhūn. Jūn zǐ yǐ jīng lún.)
English Translation:
“Clouds and thunder: Difficulty at the beginning. The superior man brings order out of confusion.”

The image of clouds and thunder signifies the chaotic and tumultuous energy of the early stages of development. Clouds gather but do not yet produce rain, while thunder rumbles without lightning—a metaphor for potential that has not yet materialized. The superior man acts with wisdom and foresight, organizing and directing these chaotic forces toward a structured outcome. The lesson here is to remain patient and focused, trusting that with deliberate action, chaos can be transformed into order.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team