I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 23 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 4, 5 to Hexagram 10
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 23.1.2.4.5 -> 10
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 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 5 Changing
"貫魚以宮人寵，无不利。"
(Guàn yú yǐ gōng rén chǒng, wú bù lì.)
“A string of fish. Favor comes to the palace maid. Everything is favorable.”
This line speaks of a positive turn. Although decay and decline may be present, there is still hope for favor and positive outcomes. It suggests that even in difficult times, opportunities for success remain.
Changing to:
10. Treading (履 Lǚ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☱ Dui (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 10
Hexagram 履 (Lǚ) represents careful treading or walking. It emphasizes caution in behavior and the need for sensitivity to the conditions around you. Success comes from walking the line between boldness and discretion.
Hexagram 10 Judgment
"履虎尾，不咥人，亨。"
(Lǚ hǔ wěi, bù dié rén, hēng.)
“Treading on the tail of the tiger. It does not bite the man. Success.”
This hexagram speaks of treading in a dangerous situation, like walking on a tiger's tail. However, if one proceeds cautiously and with respect, no harm will come, and success can be achieved.
Hexagram 10 Image
"上天下泽，履。君子以辨上下，定民志。"
(Shàng tiān xià zé, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ biàn shàng xià, dìng mín zhì.)
“Heaven above, the lake below: The image of Treading. The superior person discriminates between high and low, and strengthens the people’s resolve.”
The image of heaven above and the lake below suggests a balance between different forces. The superior person walks carefully, recognizing the hierarchy of forces and ensuring that the people’s resolve is firm. It is about maintaining balance and discernment.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team