I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 29 with Changing Lines 2, 5, 6 to Hexagram 23
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 29.2.5.6 -> 23
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 5 Changing
"坎不盈，祗既平，无咎。"
(Kǎn bù yíng, zhī jì píng, wú jiù.)
“The abyss is not full. There is peace and no blame.”
This line describes a situation where the danger is not overwhelming. The abyss has not reached its full depth, and there is peace. No blame comes from proceeding with caution and calmness.
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:
23. Splitting Apart (剝 Bō)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 23
Hexagram 剝 (Bō) symbolizes splitting apart or decay. This hexagram represents a time when things are falling apart or being stripped away. It advises patience and waiting for better times rather than trying to resist the natural cycle of decline.
Hexagram 23 Judgment
"剝，不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Splitting apart. It is not favorable to undertake anything.”
This hexagram warns against taking action during a time of decline or decay. It advises patience and acceptance of the situation. Resistance will not bring success, and it is better to wait for conditions to improve.
Hexagram 23 Image
"山附於地，剝。上以厚下，安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
“The mountain rests on the earth: The image of Splitting Apart. The superior person maintains a firm foundation below and keeps peace in their dwelling.”
The image of a mountain resting on the earth suggests stability, but also decay at the edges. The superior person focuses on maintaining stability and peace within their environment, even as the outer world may be falling apart.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team