I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 28 with Changing Lines 1, 4 to Hexagram 5
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 28.1.4 -> 5
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
"大過，棟橈，利有攸往，亨。"
(Dà guò, dòng náo, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, hēng.)
“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
"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.)
“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
"藉用白茅，无咎。"
(Jiè yòng bái máo, wú jiù.)
“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
"棟隆，吉。有它吝。"
(Dòng lóng, jí. Yǒu tā lìn.)
“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.
Changing to:
5. Waiting (Nourishment) (需 Xū)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 5
Hexagram 需 (Xū) represents waiting or nourishing. It reflects a time when patience and perseverance are necessary to allow circumstances to unfold naturally. The image is of rain held in the clouds, which will eventually fall, nourishing the earth. In human terms, it advises readiness without rushing, cultivating inner strength while waiting for the right moment to act.
Hexagram 5 Judgment
"有孚，光亨，贞吉。利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, guāng hēng, zhēn jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
“If you are sincere, you have light and success. Perseverance brings good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great water.”
This Judgment emphasizes the importance of sincerity and clarity during times of waiting. Success will come through perseverance and maintaining one's integrity. The phrase 'cross the great water' suggests a major challenge or journey that can be successfully undertaken if approached with patience and readiness.
Hexagram 5 Image
"云上于天，需。君子以饮食宴乐。"
(Yún shàng yú tiān, xū. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǐn shí yàn lè.)
“Clouds rise up to heaven: The image of Waiting. The superior person eats and drinks, is joyful and at ease.”
The image of clouds rising up to heaven indicates that rain is not yet falling. This represents a period of waiting before action. The superior person takes this time to enjoy life's simple pleasures—food, drink, and joy—without anxiety. It is a call to cultivate patience and inner peace while waiting for the right moment.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team