I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 28 with Changing Lines 3, 5 to Hexagram 40

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 28.3.5 -> 40

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

28. Preponderance of the Great

Yin Yin Yang Yin Yang Yin

40. Deliverance

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 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"棟橈，凶。"
(Dòng náo, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"枯楊生華，老妇得其士夫，无咎无譽。"
(Kū yáng shēng huá, lǎo fù dé qí shì fū, wú jiù wú yù.)
English Translation:
“A withered poplar tree blossoms. An old woman marries a young husband. No blame, no praise.”

This line describes a time of renewal, but without much fanfare. There is no blame, but also no great praise. It advises accepting the renewal without seeking validation or acclaim.

Changing to:

40. Deliverance (解 Xiè)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☵ Kǎn (Water)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 40

Hexagram 解 (Xiè) symbolizes release from difficulty or deliverance. This hexagram speaks of a time when tensions ease, obstacles are removed, and liberation is possible. Success comes from seizing the opportunity to move forward after a period of difficulty.

Hexagram 40 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"解，利西南。无所往，其來復吉。有攸往，夙吉。"
(Xiè, lì xī nán. Wú suǒ wǎng, qí lái fù jí. Yǒu yōu wǎng, sù jí.)
English Translation:
“Deliverance. It is favorable to go southwest. If there is nothing to pursue, returning brings good fortune. If there is something to pursue, setting out early brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises taking advantage of the easing of difficulties to move forward. If there is nothing urgent to pursue, it is best to return and rest. However, if there is a goal, starting early brings success.

Hexagram 40 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷雨作，解。君子以赦過宥罪。"
(Léi yǔ zuò, xiè. Jūn zǐ yǐ shè guò yòu zuì.)
English Translation:
“Thunder and rain set in: The image of Deliverance. The superior person pardons mistakes and forgives offenses.”

The image of thunder and rain symbolizes the release of tension and the clearing away of obstacles. The superior person, in a time of deliverance, shows mercy and forgiveness, helping others to move forward.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team