I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 23 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5 to Hexagram 6
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 23.2.4.5 -> 6
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 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:
6. Conflict (訟 Sòng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 6
Hexagram Sòng (Conflict) represents a time of dispute or disagreement. This hexagram signals a moment when conflicts must be addressed. The key to resolution lies in upholding righteousness and avoiding impulsive reactions driven by anger or emotion.
Hexagram 6 Judgment
"有孚，窒惕，中吉，终凶。利见大人，不利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, zhì tì, zhōng jí, zhōng xiōng. Lì jiàn dà rén, bù lì shè dà chuān.)
“Conflict demands sincerity. Be cautious and halt before it escalates. There is success in the middle, but disaster awaits at the end. It is beneficial to consult a wise person, but unfavorable to undertake major ventures, like crossing a great river.”
Conflict is best managed through sincerity and careful restraint. Success comes from resolving disputes in the middle stage, before they intensify. While there may be some early success, prolonged conflict leads to harm. Seeking advice from a wise figure is beneficial, but engaging in large-scale endeavors (crossing a great river) is unwise during this time.
Hexagram 6 Image
"天与水违行，訟。君子以作事谋始。"
(Tiān yǔ shuǐ wéi xíng, sòng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zuò shì móu shǐ.)
“Heaven and water move in opposite directions—this is the image of Conflict. The wise person uses this time to plan carefully at the outset of any endeavor.”
Heaven and water moving apart symbolize discord and opposition. The wise person uses this time to strategize and avoid rushing into any new ventures, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning in navigating conflict.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team