I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 28 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 6 to Hexagram 9

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 28.1.4.6 -> 9

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

28. Preponderance of the Great

Yang Yang Yin Yang Yang Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

28. Preponderance of the Great (大過 Dà Guò)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Dui (Lake)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 28

Hexagram 大過 (Dà Guò) represents a time when things have gone beyond their normal limits, requiring extraordinary measures. This hexagram speaks of a time when great strength or effort is needed to deal with overwhelming circumstances.

Hexagram 28 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"大過，棟橈，利有攸往，亨。"
(Dà guò, dòng náo, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, hēng.)
English Translation:
“Preponderance of the Great. The ridgepole sags. It is favorable to undertake something. Success.”

This hexagram speaks of a situation where the weight of circumstances is too great, symbolized by the sagging ridgepole. Extraordinary efforts are required, and success comes through careful and deliberate action. It is a time for great strength.

Hexagram 28 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤滅木，大過。君子以獨立不懼，遯世无悶。"
(Zé miè mù, dà guò. Jūn zǐ yǐ dú lì bù jù, dùn shì wú mèn.)
English Translation:
“The lake rises above the trees: The image of Preponderance of the Great. The superior person stands alone without fear and withdraws from the world without regret.”

The image of a lake rising above the trees suggests an overwhelming situation. The superior person stands firm and does not fear the challenge. Sometimes, retreat and quiet reflection are necessary to cope with overwhelming circumstances.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"藉用白茅，无咎。"
(Jiè yòng bái máo, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Using white grass as a mat. No blame.”

This line advises taking modest, simple actions in times of difficulty. By keeping things simple and using what is available (like white grass), one avoids blame and misfortune.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"棟隆，吉。有它吝。"
(Dòng lóng, jí. Yǒu tā lìn.)
English Translation:
“The ridgepole rises. Good fortune. If there are other things, there is regret.”

This line suggests that the situation is improving, symbolized by the ridgepole rising again. However, if one takes on too much or becomes distracted by other concerns, there will be regret.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"過涉滅頂，凶，无咎。"
(Guò shè miè dǐng, xiōng, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Passing through the flood waters submerges the head. Misfortune. No blame.”

This line describes a situation where one is overwhelmed, symbolized by being submerged in floodwaters. Misfortune is unavoidable, but there is no blame. It advises caution and retreat if possible.

Changing to:

9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 9

Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.

Hexagram 9 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
English Translation:
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”

This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.

Hexagram 9 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”

The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team