I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 23 with Changing Lines 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 39
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 23.3.5.6 -> 39
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 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 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:
39. Obstruction (蹇 Jiǎn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 39
Hexagram 蹇 (Jiǎn) symbolizes obstacles or obstructions. This hexagram speaks of difficulties or impediments on one's path. Success comes from patience, perseverance, and knowing when to retreat and when to push forward.
Hexagram 39 Judgment
"蹇，利西南，不利東北。利見大人，貞吉。"
(Jiǎn, lì xī nán, bù lì dōng běi. Lì jiàn dà rén, zhēn jí.)
“Obstruction. It is favorable to go southwest, not favorable to go northeast. It is beneficial to see the great person. Perseverance brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises adjusting one's direction when facing obstacles. Success comes from going with the flow (symbolized by the southwest) rather than forcing one's way forward. Meeting with a wise person and persevering brings good fortune.
Hexagram 39 Image
"山上有水，蹇。君子以反身修德。"
(Shān shàng yǒu shuǐ, jiǎn. Jūn zǐ yǐ fǎn shēn xiū dé.)
“Water on the mountain: The image of Obstruction. The superior person turns inward and cultivates virtue.”
The image of water on a mountain represents difficulties or obstacles that prevent easy progress. The superior person uses this time to turn inward, cultivating inner strength and virtue while waiting for the right time to act.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team