I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 23 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 34
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 23.1.2.3.4.6 -> 34
23. Splitting Apart (剝 Bō)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 23
Hexagram 剝 (Bō) symbolizes splitting apart or decay. This hexagram represents a time when things are falling apart or being stripped away. It advises patience and waiting for better times rather than trying to resist the natural cycle of decline.
Hexagram 23 Judgment
"剝,不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Splitting apart. It is not favorable to undertake anything.”
This hexagram warns against taking action during a time of decline or decay. It advises patience and acceptance of the situation. Resistance will not bring success, and it is better to wait for conditions to improve.
Hexagram 23 Image
"山附於地,剝。上以厚下,安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
“The mountain rests on the earth: The image of Splitting Apart. The superior person maintains a firm foundation below and keeps peace in their dwelling.”
The image of a mountain resting on the earth suggests stability, but also decay at the edges. The superior person focuses on maintaining stability and peace within their environment, even as the outer world may be falling apart.
Line 1 Changing
"剝牀以足,蔑貞凶。"
(Bō chuáng yǐ zú, miè zhēn xiōng.)
“Splitting at the legs of the bed. Perseverance leads to misfortune.”
This line speaks of the foundation being weakened, symbolized by the legs of a bed splitting. Trying to persevere in such a situation will only lead to further misfortune. It advises caution.
Line 2 Changing
"剝牀以辨,蔑貞凶。"
(Bō chuáng yǐ biàn, miè zhēn xiōng.)
“Splitting at the frame of the bed. Perseverance leads to misfortune.”
This line describes further decay, with the bed's frame splitting. Continuing to push forward in such circumstances only leads to more misfortune. It advises letting go and not trying to fix what cannot be saved.
Line 3 Changing
"剝之无咎。"
(Bō zhī wú jiù.)
“Splitting apart. No blame.”
This line describes a situation where decay is inevitable, but no blame falls on the person experiencing it. It advises accepting the situation and not trying to fight against natural decline.
Line 4 Changing
"剝牀以膚,凶。"
(Bō chuáng yǐ fū, xiōng.)
“Splitting at the flesh of the bed. Misfortune.”
This line suggests that the decay has reached a critical point. The situation has deteriorated to the point of no return, and misfortune is unavoidable. It advises accepting the loss and moving on.
Line 6 Changing
"碩果不食,君子得輿,小人剝廬。"
(Shuò guǒ bù shí, jūn zǐ dé yú, xiǎo rén bō lú.)
“The large fruit is not eaten. The superior person receives a carriage. The inferior person tears down their hut.”
This line describes a division between those who succeed and those who fall. The superior person is rewarded and moves forward, while the inferior person loses everything. It advises maintaining integrity and avoiding self-destruction.
Changing to:
34. The Power of the Great (大壯 Dà Zhuàng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 34
Hexagram 大壯 (Dà Zhuàng) represents great power and strength. This hexagram speaks of a time when great energy and force are available, but it advises using this power with care and wisdom. True strength comes from knowing when and how to apply it.
Hexagram 34 Judgment
"大壯,利貞。"
(Dà zhuàng, lì zhēn.)
“The Power of the Great. Perseverance furthers.”
This hexagram advises using great power wisely. Success comes from perseverance and the careful, deliberate application of strength. It is important to avoid rash or impulsive actions.
Hexagram 34 Image
"雷在天上,大壯。君子以非禮勿履。"
(Léi zài tiān shàng, dà zhuàng. Jūn zǐ yǐ fēi lǐ wù lǚ.)
“Thunder in heaven above: The image of The Power of the Great. The superior person avoids stepping beyond what is proper.”
The image of thunder in heaven represents great power that must be controlled. The superior person, like thunder, understands the need for restraint and does not overstep the bounds of what is proper.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team