I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 31 with Changing Lines 3, 6 to Hexagram 12
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 31.3.6 -> 12
31. Influence (Wooing) (咸 Xián)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dui (Lake)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 31
Hexagram 咸 (Xián) symbolizes influence, attraction, and the power of mutual response. This hexagram speaks of relationships, attraction, and how one person or force influences another. Success comes from subtle influence rather than force.
Hexagram 31 Judgment
"咸,亨,利貞。取女吉。"
(Xián, hēng, lì zhēn. Qǔ nǚ jí.)
“Influence. Success. Perseverance furthers. Taking a wife brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises subtle influence and mutual attraction. Success comes from steady, gentle influence, not force. In relationships, like marriage, mutual respect and attraction bring good fortune.
Hexagram 31 Image
"山上有澤,咸。君子以虛受人。"
(Shān shàng yǒu zé, xián. Jūn zǐ yǐ xū shòu rén.)
“Lake on the mountain: The image of Influence. The superior person is open to receiving others.”
The image of the lake on the mountain represents openness and receptivity. The superior person, like the lake, is open to receiving others and is influenced by their surroundings. This receptiveness allows for mutual influence and growth.
Line 3 Changing
"咸其股,執其隨,往吝。"
(Xián qí gǔ, zhí qí suí, wǎng lìn.)
“Influence reaches the thighs. Holding on to those who follow brings regret.”
This line describes influence that has spread to the thighs, but holding too tightly to those who follow leads to regret. It advises allowing others the freedom to move and make their own choices.
Line 6 Changing
"咸其頰、舌。"
(Xián qí jiá, shé.)
“Influence reaches the jaws and tongue.”
This line describes influence that has reached the level of speech and communication. It advises being mindful of how words influence others and using communication to strengthen relationships and mutual respect.
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
"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.)
“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
"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.)
“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