I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 29 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 6 to Hexagram 12
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 29.2.4.6 -> 12
29. The Abysmal (Water) (坎 Kǎn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 29
Hexagram 坎 (Kǎn) symbolizes danger, difficulty, and the need to navigate through perilous situations. This hexagram speaks of repeated challenges and the need for resilience and wisdom in order to move through difficulties successfully.
Hexagram 29 Judgment
"習坎，有孚，維心亨，行有尚。"
(Xí kǎn, yǒu fú, wéi xīn hēng, xíng yǒu shàng.)
“The Abysmal repeated. If you are sincere, you have success in your heart, and whatever you do has merit.”
This hexagram speaks of repeated dangers, symbolized by water that constantly flows and faces obstacles. Success comes from being sincere and steady in the face of these challenges. Inner strength and determination bring merit and success.
Hexagram 29 Image
"水流至坎，習坎。君子以常德行，習教事。"
(Shuǐ liú zhì kǎn, xí kǎn. Jūn zǐ yǐ cháng dé xíng, xí jiào shì.)
“Water flows into the abyss: The image of The Abysmal. The superior person cultivates virtue and continues their teaching.”
The image of water flowing into the abyss represents constant challenges. The superior person uses these challenges to cultivate inner strength and virtue, continuing their teaching and work despite difficulties.
Line 2 Changing
"坎有險，求小得。"
(Kǎn yǒu xiǎn, qiú xiǎo dé.)
“There is danger in the abyss. Seeking small gains brings success.”
This line advises caution and suggests that small gains are possible even in dangerous situations. By proceeding carefully and not taking large risks, one can achieve success.
Line 4 Changing
"樽酒簋貳，用缶，納約自牖，終无咎。"
(Zūn jiǔ guǐ èr, yòng fǒu, nà yuē zì yǒu, zhōng wú jiù.)
“A jar of wine, a bowl of food, and using earthenware. Acceptance from a window brings no blame.”
This line speaks of modest offerings and simple sustenance. By accepting what is simple and using what is available, one avoids blame and finds success. Modesty and simplicity lead to favorable outcomes.
Line 6 Changing
"係用徽纆，寘于叢棘，三歲不得，凶。"
(Xì yòng huī mò, zhì yú cóng jí, sān suì bù dé, xiōng.)
“Tied with ropes to thorns and thickets, for three years one cannot escape. Misfortune.”
This line describes a situation of being trapped by difficulties, symbolized by being tied to thorns. Misfortune follows if one cannot find a way out. It advises seeking a new approach to escape long-term challenges.
Changing to:
12. Standstill (否 Pǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 12
Hexagram 否 (Pǐ) symbolizes standstill or stagnation. This hexagram represents a time when progress halts, and opposing forces prevent movement forward. It advises patience and waiting for more favorable conditions.
Hexagram 12 Judgment
"否之匪人，不利君子贞，大往小来。"
(Pǐ zhī fěi rén, bù lì jūn zǐ zhēn, dà wǎng xiǎo lái.)
“Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior person. The great departs; the small approaches.”
In times of standstill, negative forces dominate, making it difficult for the superior person to act. The good or great things seem to recede, while small, petty concerns take their place. This hexagram advises patience and restraint until the situation improves.
Hexagram 12 Image
"天地不交，否。君子以俭德辟难，不可荣以禄。"
(Tiān dì bù jiāo, pǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiǎn dé pì nàn, bù kě róng yǐ lù.)
“Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. The superior person uses modesty to avoid difficulties. He does not boast of riches or honors.”
The image of heaven and earth not interacting symbolizes a breakdown in harmony, leading to stagnation. The superior person recognizes that in such times, it is better to remain modest, avoid drawing attention, and wait for a more favorable situation.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team