I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 3 with Changing Lines 2, 4 to Hexagram 58
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 3.2.4 -> 58
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
"元亨,利贞,勿用有攸往,利建侯。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng, lì jiàn hóu.)
“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
"云雷,屯。君子以经纶。"
(Yún léi, zhūn. Jūn zǐ yǐ jīng lún.)
“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 2 Changing
"屯如,邅如,乘马班如,匪寇婚媾,女子贞不字,十年乃字。"
(Zhūn rú, zhān rú, chéng mǎ bān rú, fěi kòu hūn gòu, nǚ zǐ zhēn bù zì, shí nián nǎi zì.)
“Difficulty upon difficulty. Horses stumble. Not a robber, but a suitor. The maiden is firm and does not marry. After ten years, she does marry.”
This line reflects compounding challenges and delays, likened to a horse stumbling repeatedly. However, the situation is not as negative as it appears: what seems like robbery is in fact courtship. The maiden's refusal to marry represents the virtue of patience, waiting for the right moment to act. After a prolonged period of perseverance ('ten years'), success is achieved. This line advises not rushing into decisions and understanding that obstacles are part of a natural process that will ultimately bring about the desired outcome.
Line 4 Changing
"乘马班如,求婚媾,往吉,无不利。"
(Chéng mǎ bān rú, qiú hūn gòu, wǎng jí, wú bù lì.)
“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.
Changing to:
58. The Joyous (兌 Duì)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Duì (Lake)
- Below
- ☱ Duì (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 58
Hexagram 兌 (Duì) represents the joyous, cheerful influence of the lake. This hexagram speaks of communication, happiness, and mutual support. Success comes from creating a joyful, open atmosphere where people feel free to express themselves.
Hexagram 58 Judgment
"兌,亨,利貞。"
(Duì, hēng, lì zhēn.)
“The Joyous. Success. Perseverance furthers.”
This hexagram advises fostering a joyful and open environment, where success comes from mutual support and clear communication. Perseverance in creating this atmosphere leads to long-term success.
Hexagram 58 Image
"麗澤,兌。君子以朋友講習。"
(Lì zé, duì. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“Lakes resting on one another: The image of The Joyous. The superior person joins with friends for discussion and practice.”
The image of two lakes represents a supportive and harmonious relationship, where mutual joy flows freely. The superior person, like the lake, engages in meaningful discussions with friends, fostering mutual growth and understanding.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team