I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 28 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 8
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 28.2.3.4 -> 8
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 2 Changing
枯楊生稊，老夫得其女妻，无不利。
(Kū yáng shēng tí, lǎo fū dé qí nǚ qī, wú bù lì.)
“A withered poplar tree sprouts new shoots. An old man marries a young wife. Everything is favorable.”
This line describes a time of renewal in the midst of decay. Even when things seem beyond repair (like a withered tree), new life and opportunities arise. This renewal brings success.
Line 3 Changing
棟橈，凶。
(Dòng náo, xiōng.)
“The ridgepole sags. Misfortune.”
This line speaks of a situation where the weight of circumstances is too much to bear, symbolized by the sagging ridgepole. Misfortune is unavoidable unless extraordinary action is taken.
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:
8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 8
Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.
Hexagram 8 Judgment
比，吉。原筮，元永贞，无咎。不宁方来，后夫凶。
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”
This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.
Hexagram 8 Image
水上有地，比。君子以朋友讲习。
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”
The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team