I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 3 with Changing Lines 3, 6 to Hexagram 37

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 3.3.6 -> 37

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

3. Difficulty at the Beginning

Yang Yang Yin Yang Yin Yang

37. The Family

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 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 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:

37. The Family (家人 Jiā Rén)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☲ Lí (Fire)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 37

Hexagram 家人 (Jiā Rén) symbolizes the structure and harmony of the family. This hexagram speaks of order, mutual care, and proper relationships within the family unit. Success comes from cultivating harmony and fulfilling responsibilities.

Hexagram 37 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"家人，利女貞。"
(Jiā rén, lì nǚ zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The Family. It is favorable for the woman to persevere.”

This hexagram emphasizes the importance of harmony and order in the family, with a particular focus on the role of the woman in maintaining the household. Success comes from fulfilling responsibilities and persevering in one's duties.

Hexagram 37 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風自火出，家人。君子以言有物，行有恆。"
(Fēng zì huǒ chū, jiā rén. Jūn zǐ yǐ yán yǒu wù, xíng yǒu héng.)
English Translation:
“Wind comes forth from fire: The image of The Family. The superior person speaks with substance and acts with consistency.”

The image of wind coming forth from fire represents the dynamic energy of the family. The superior person, like a family leader, speaks and acts with consistency, ensuring harmony and order within the household.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team