I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 23 with Changing Lines 5 to Hexagram 20

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 23.5 -> 20

Young Yang Old Yin Young Yin Young Yin Young Yin Young Yin

23. Splitting Apart

Yang Yang Yin Yin Yin Yin

20. Contemplation

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"剝，不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"山附於地，剝。上以厚下，安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
English Translation:
“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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"貫魚以宮人寵，无不利。"
(Guàn yú yǐ gōng rén chǒng, wú bù lì.)
English Translation:
“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:

20. Contemplation (觀 Guān)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 20

Hexagram 觀 (Guān) symbolizes contemplation and observation. This hexagram represents a time to pause and reflect, gaining insight through careful observation rather than immediate action.

Hexagram 20 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"觀，盥而不薦，有孚顒若。"
(Guān, guàn ér bù jiàn, yǒu fú yǒng ruò.)
English Translation:
“Contemplation. Washing the hands, but not making an offering. With sincerity and awareness, clarity comes.”

This hexagram speaks of taking time to reflect before making decisions or taking action. By cultivating sincerity and careful observation, clarity and insight are gained. It advises patience and deep contemplation.

Hexagram 20 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風行地上，觀。先王以省方，觀民設教。"
(Fēng xíng dì shàng, guān. Xiān wáng yǐ xǐng fāng, guān mín shè jiào.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows over the earth: The image of Contemplation. The ancient kings made tours of inspection to observe the people and teach them.”

The wind blowing over the earth symbolizes the power of observation. The superior person uses this time to observe, learn, and understand, much like the ancient kings who traveled to see the state of their people and teach them accordingly.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team