I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 3 with Changing Lines 1, 5 to Hexagram 2

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 3.1.5 -> 2

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

3. Difficulty at the Beginning

Yin Yin Yin Yin Yin Yin

2. The Receptive

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 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:

2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 2

Hexagram 坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.

Hexagram 2 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨，利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.”

The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.

Hexagram 2 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地势坤，君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
English Translation:
“The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world.”

The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team