I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 61

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.1.2.3.4 -> 61

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

33. Retreat

Yang Yang Yin Yin Yang Yang

61. Inner Truth

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"遯，亨。小利貞。"
(Dùn, hēng. Xiǎo lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"遯尾，厲，勿用有攸往。"
(Dùn wěi, lì, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"執之用黃牛之革，莫之勝說。"
(Zhí zhī yòng huáng niú zhī gé, mò zhī shèng shuō.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"係遯，有疾厲，畜臣妾吉。"
(Xì dùn, yǒu jí lì, xù chén qiè jí.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"好遯，君子吉，小人否。"
(Hào dùn, jūn zǐ jí, xiǎo rén pǐ.)
English Translation:
“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.

Changing to:

61. Inner Truth (中孚 Zhōng Fú)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☱ Duì (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 61

Hexagram 中孚 (Zhōng Fú) represents inner truth, symbolizing sincerity, faithfulness, and trust. This hexagram speaks of the importance of being true to oneself and others. Success comes from acting with sincerity and building trust in relationships.

Hexagram 61 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"中孚，豚魚吉，利涉大川，利貞。"
(Zhōng fú, tún yú jí, lì shè dà chuān, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Inner Truth. Pigs and fish. Good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great river. Perseverance furthers.”

This hexagram advises acting with sincerity and faithfulness. Success comes from being true to oneself and building trust. It is also favorable to take on significant challenges, symbolized by crossing the great river.

Hexagram 61 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風行澤中，中孚。君子以議獄緩死。"
(Fēng xíng zé zhōng, zhōng fú. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì yù huǎn sǐ.)
English Translation:
“Wind moves over the lake: The image of Inner Truth. The superior person discusses legal cases to delay executions.”

The image of wind moving over the lake represents the power of gentle influence and trust. The superior person, like the wind, uses their influence to ensure fairness and mercy, especially in difficult situations.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team