I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 60
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.1.2.3.4.6 -> 60
33. Retreat (遯 Dùn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 33
Hexagram 遯 (Dùn) symbolizes strategic retreat in the face of superior forces. This hexagram speaks of the wisdom in knowing when to withdraw and conserve strength rather than continue fighting a losing battle. Success comes from prudence and waiting for better conditions.
Hexagram 33 Judgment
"遯,亨。小利貞。"
(Dùn, hēng. Xiǎo lì zhēn.)
“Retreat. Success. Perseverance brings small gain.”
This hexagram advises a strategic retreat in the face of difficulties. Success comes from knowing when to pull back, rather than pushing forward in unfavorable conditions. Perseverance brings small but important gains.
Hexagram 33 Image
"天下有山,遯。君子以遠小人,不惡而嚴。"
(Tiān xià yǒu shān, dùn. Jūn zǐ yǐ yuǎn xiǎo rén, bù è ér yán.)
“The mountain stands beneath heaven: The image of Retreat. The superior person keeps distant from inferior people without hatred but maintains dignity.”
The image of the mountain under heaven suggests a time for standing firm and maintaining distance. The superior person knows when to withdraw from negative influences while remaining dignified and unresentful.
Line 1 Changing
"遯尾,厲,勿用有攸往。"
(Dùn wěi, lì, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Retreat at the tail. There is danger. Do not advance.”
This line advises retreating carefully from a dangerous situation. By withdrawing before becoming too deeply involved, one avoids greater danger. It warns against continuing to push forward.
Line 2 Changing
"執之用黃牛之革,莫之勝說。"
(Zhí zhī yòng huáng niú zhī gé, mò zhī shèng shuō.)
“Held fast with the hide of a yellow cow. No one can loosen it.”
This line suggests being in a stable, secure position, like being tied with a sturdy hide. It advises holding firm and not letting go, as this security ensures safety in the retreat.
Line 3 Changing
"係遯,有疾厲,畜臣妾吉。"
(Xì dùn, yǒu jí lì, xù chén qiè jí.)
“Tied in retreat. Illness and danger, but nurturing one's servants brings good fortune.”
This line describes a difficult situation where retreat is hindered, leading to danger or illness. However, by taking care of others (symbolized by servants), one still finds good fortune.
Line 4 Changing
"好遯,君子吉,小人否。"
(Hào dùn, jūn zǐ jí, xiǎo rén pǐ.)
“Delighting in retreat. The superior person finds good fortune, while the inferior person does not.”
This line speaks of the wisdom of knowing when to retreat. The superior person understands the benefits of withdrawal and finds good fortune in doing so, while the inferior person struggles with the concept and does not benefit.
Line 6 Changing
"肥遯,无不利。"
(Féi dùn, wú bù lì.)
“Full retreat. Nothing is unfavorable.”
This line describes a complete and successful retreat. By fully withdrawing from danger or unfavorable conditions, everything turns out well. It advises a full commitment to retreat when necessary.
Changing to:
60. Limitation (節 Jié)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 60
Hexagram 節 (Jié) represents limitation or regulation, symbolizing the importance of setting boundaries and knowing one's limits. This hexagram speaks of the value of restraint and self-discipline. Success comes from moderation and controlling one's desires.
Hexagram 60 Judgment
"節,亨。苦節,不可貞。"
(Jié, hēng. Kǔ jié, bù kě zhēn.)
“Limitation. Success. Bitter limitation cannot be persevered in.”
This hexagram advises setting appropriate limits and exercising restraint, but warns against harsh or overly restrictive limitations. Success comes from moderation and flexibility, not from excessive control.
Hexagram 60 Image
"澤上有水,節。君子以制數度,議德行。"
(Zé shàng yǒu shuǐ, jié. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhì shù dù, yì dé xíng.)
“Water over the lake: The image of Limitation. The superior person establishes measures and limits and discusses virtue and conduct.”
The image of water over the lake represents the need to contain and regulate resources. The superior person, like the lake, sets clear boundaries and guidelines, ensuring that everything is kept in balance. Success comes from clear regulations and virtuous conduct.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team