I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 3 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 6 to Hexagram 12

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 3.1.4.6 -> 12

Old Yin Young Yang Old Yin Young Yin Young Yin Old Yang

3. Difficulty at the Beginning

Yang Yang Yang Yin Yin Yin

12. Standstill

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 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"乘马班如，求婚媾，往吉，无不利。"
(Chéng mǎ bān rú, qiú hūn gòu, wǎng jí, wú bù lì.)
English Translation:
“Horses stumble. Seeking union, going brings good fortune. Everything acts to further.”

Despite the image of stumbling horses (symbolizing setbacks), this line encourages perseverance in seeking union or cooperation. The difficulties encountered earlier are not indicative of failure, but rather part of the process leading to success. The line advises continuing efforts to form alliances or partnerships, as these relationships will ultimately bring good fortune. It suggests that unity and cooperation are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving long-term success.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"乘马班如，泣血涟如。"
(Chéng mǎ bān rú, qì xuè lián rú.)
English Translation:
“Horses stumble. Tears of blood flow.”

The final line represents extreme hardship, where continued effort without recognition of the need to change course leads to deep suffering. The image of tears of blood reflects the emotional and physical toll of perseverance taken to its breaking point. This line serves as a warning that stubborn persistence in the wrong direction can cause irreparable damage. It advises reflection, withdrawal, and finding new approaches when the situation becomes too overwhelming.

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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