I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 3 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 55
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 3.3.4.5 -> 55
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 3 Changing
"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.)
“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 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.
Line 5 Changing
"屯其膏,小贞吉,大贞凶。"
(Zhūn qí gāo, xiǎo zhēn jí, dà zhēn xiōng.)
“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:
55. Abundance (豐 Fēng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 55
Hexagram 豐 (Fēng) represents abundance, fullness, and prosperity. This hexagram speaks of a time of great success, where everything flourishes and grows. Success comes from managing abundance wisely and preparing for the inevitable changes that follow prosperity.
Hexagram 55 Judgment
"豐,亨,王假之,勿憂,宜日中。"
(Fēng, hēng, wáng jiǎ zhī, wù yōu, yí rì zhōng.)
“Abundance. Success. The king approaches it. Do not worry. It is favorable to be at midday.”
This hexagram advises embracing the current time of abundance and success. Just as midday represents the peak of the sun’s strength, this is a time of fullness and growth. However, it also advises managing this abundance with care and preparing for future changes.
Hexagram 55 Image
"雷電皆至,豐。君子以折獄致刑。"
(Léi diàn jiē zhì, fēng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhé yù zhì xíng.)
“Thunder and lightning arrive together: The image of Abundance. The superior person settles legal cases and administers punishment.”
The image of thunder and lightning represents the intensity and power of abundance. The superior person, like a wise ruler, uses this time of prosperity to address issues, settle disputes, and ensure justice is served.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team