I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 29 with Changing Lines 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 18
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 29.3.5.6 -> 18
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 3 Changing
"來之坎坎，險且枕，入于坎窞，勿用。"
(Lái zhī kǎn kǎn, xiǎn qiě zhěn, rù yú kǎn dàn, wù yòng.)
“The abyss is dangerous and filled with obstacles. Entering the abyss, it is not useful.”
This line describes a situation filled with obstacles and danger. It advises against moving forward into the abyss, as doing so will not lead to success. It is better to wait for safer conditions.
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:
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
"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.)
“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
"風行山上，蠱。君子以振民育德。"
(Fēng xíng shān shàng, gǔ. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhèn mín yù dé.)
“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