I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 23 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 17
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 23.1.4.5.6 -> 17
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 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.
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:
17. Following (隨 Suí)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
- Below
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 17
Hexagram 隨 (Suí) symbolizes following, adapting, and being flexible. This hexagram represents a time when it is wise to follow the flow of events, adapting to circumstances without trying to impose one's will. Success comes from flexibility and responsiveness.
Hexagram 17 Judgment
"隨，元亨，利貞，无咎。"
(Suí, yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wú jiù.)
“Following. Supreme success. Perseverance brings good fortune. No blame.”
This hexagram advises adaptability. By following the course of events and responding to circumstances with flexibility, one achieves success. It is important to remain committed to principles while being responsive to change.
Hexagram 17 Image
"澤中有雷，隨。君子以嚮晦入宴息。"
(Zé zhōng yǒu léi, suí. Jūn zǐ yǐ xiàng huì rù yàn xī.)
“Thunder within the lake: The image of Following. The superior person withdraws when the time is not right and rests.”
The image of thunder within the lake suggests a time of reflection and withdrawal. The superior person follows the course of events, knowing when to act and when to rest. It is important to conserve energy and wait for the right moment.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team