I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 28 with Changing Lines 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 18

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 28.4.5.6 -> 18

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 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 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.

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:

18. Work on What Has Been Spoiled (蠱 Gǔ)

Trigrams

Above
☶ Gèn (Mountain)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 18

Hexagram 蠱 (Gǔ) symbolizes decay or corruption. This hexagram indicates a time when things have gone wrong, and one must work to repair and restore order. It speaks of correcting past mistakes and addressing harmful influences.

Hexagram 18 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"蠱,元亨,利涉大川。先甲三日,後甲三日。"
(Gǔ, yuán hēng, lì shè dà chuān. Xiān jiǎ sān rì, hòu jiǎ sān rì.)
English Translation:
“Work on what has been spoiled. Supreme success. It is favorable to cross the great water. Before the new beginning, three days; after the new beginning, three days.”

This hexagram suggests that addressing past mistakes leads to supreme success. It advises starting fresh, but careful preparation and reflection are necessary before moving forward. This process takes time but brings great reward.

Hexagram 18 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風行山上,蠱。君子以振民育德。"
(Fēng xíng shān shàng, gǔ. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhèn mín yù dé.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows across the mountain: The image of Decay. The superior person stirs the people and nourishes virtue.”

The wind on the mountain represents the force of decay and the need for restoration. The superior person takes action to correct the situation, helping to revive the people and nourish their virtues. This is a time for renewal.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team