I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 3 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 5 to Hexagram 15

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 3.1.3.5 -> 15

3. Difficulty at the Beginning (屯 Zhūn)

Trigrams

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

The Symbolism of Hexagram 3

Hexagram 屯 (Zhūn) symbolizes difficulty and confusion at the beginning of a new venture. It represents the struggles encountered at the outset of creation or development. Like sprouting seeds pushing through the soil, progress is slow, uncertain, and requires persistence. Zhūn encourages perseverance in the face of obstacles and advises careful planning and patience in the early stages. This hexagram illustrates that chaos often precedes order, and that new beginnings, though difficult, are full of potential once obstacles are overcome.

Hexagram 3 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨,利贞,勿用有攸往,利建侯。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng, lì jiàn hóu.)
English Translation:
“Sublime success. Perseverance furthers. Do not act in haste; it is favorable to establish lords.”

The judgment emphasizes that despite the initial difficulties, success is possible through perseverance. Acting hastily or impulsively is discouraged. The mention of establishing lords represents the need for careful organization, strategic planning, and forming alliances. It suggests the importance of solid foundations before advancing, as well as surrounding oneself with trusted individuals or a supportive network in times of hardship.

Hexagram 3 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"云雷,屯。君子以经纶。"
(Yún léi, zhūn. Jūn zǐ yǐ jīng lún.)
English Translation:
“Clouds and thunder: Difficulty at the beginning. The superior man brings order out of confusion.”

The image of clouds and thunder signifies the chaotic and tumultuous energy of the early stages of development. Clouds gather but do not yet produce rain, while thunder rumbles without lightning—a metaphor for potential that has not yet materialized. The superior man acts with wisdom and foresight, organizing and directing these chaotic forces toward a structured outcome. The lesson here is to remain patient and focused, trusting that with deliberate action, chaos can be transformed into order.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"磐桓,利居贞,利建侯。"
(Pán huán, lì jū zhēn, lì jiàn hóu.)
English Translation:
“Hesitation and hindrance. It is beneficial to remain firm and establish lords.”

The first line represents a time of hesitation and difficulty, where obstacles seem to block progress. However, it is during this pause that one must remain firm and avoid acting prematurely. The idea of 'establishing lords' here suggests the importance of laying down strong foundations and delegating responsibility to capable individuals. This phase is about preparation, even though forward movement feels delayed. Perseverance and careful planning are crucial to future success.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"即鹿无虞,惟入于林中,君子几不如舍,往吝。"
(Jí lù wú yú, wéi rù yú lín zhōng, jūn zǐ jī bù rú shě, wǎng lìn.)
English Translation:
“Hunting deer without a guide. Only entering the forest. The superior man gives up in time. To go on brings regret.”

This line symbolizes the dangers of proceeding without proper guidance or preparation. Hunting deer without a guide and entering the forest alone suggest blindly pursuing a goal. The superior man recognizes when a situation is not promising and knows when to stop, avoiding further losses. Continuing down a misguided path will lead to regret. This line encourages caution and prudence, reminding us to reassess our position when faced with uncertainty or unfamiliar terrain.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"屯其膏,小贞吉,大贞凶。"
(Zhūn qí gāo, xiǎo zhēn jí, dà zhēn xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Difficulty in blessing. A small perseverance brings good fortune; great perseverance brings misfortune.”

This line warns against overextending oneself during difficult times. While small acts of perseverance are beneficial, great or excessive persistence can lead to misfortune. The line suggests that there is a balance to be struck—pushing too hard or being overly ambitious in the face of obstacles can backfire. It emphasizes the importance of moderation, knowing when to hold back, and being realistic about what can be achieved.

Changing to:

15. Modesty (謙 Qiān)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 15

Hexagram 謙 (Qiān) symbolizes modesty. This hexagram represents the virtue of humility, where individuals acknowledge their limitations and act without arrogance. Modesty brings success by allowing growth and development without drawing negative attention.

Hexagram 15 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"謙亨,君子有終。"
(Qiān hēng, jūn zǐ yǒu zhōng.)
English Translation:
“Modesty creates success. The superior person completes their task.”

This hexagram advises modest behavior and humility as the key to success. The superior person accomplishes their goals by staying humble and grounded. Modesty allows them to remain focused and avoid unnecessary challenges.

Hexagram 15 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地中有山,謙。君子以裒多益寡,稱物平施。"
(Dì zhōng yǒu shān, qiān. Jūn zǐ yǐ póu duō yì guǎ, chēng wù píng shī.)
English Translation:
“Within the earth, there is a mountain: The image of Modesty. The superior person reduces that which is too much and augments that which is too little, thus balancing the gift of things.”

The image of a mountain within the earth symbolizes hidden strength. The superior person uses this time to balance things, helping those with less and gently reducing the excess of those with more. This creates harmony and equilibrium in the world.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team