I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 5 to Hexagram 14

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.1.2.5 -> 14

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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"嘉遯,貞吉。"
(Jiā dùn, zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Praising retreat. Perseverance brings good fortune.”

This line describes the benefit of recognizing the value of retreat. By persevering in a wise withdrawal, good fortune follows. It advises accepting retreat as a positive step.

Changing to:

14. Possession in Great Measure (大有 Dà Yǒu)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 14

Hexagram 大有 (Dà Yǒu) represents possession in great measure. This hexagram signifies abundance, wealth, and power. It emphasizes the responsible use of one's resources and abilities to benefit both oneself and others.

Hexagram 14 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"大有,元亨。"
(Dà yǒu, yuán hēng.)
English Translation:
“Possession in great measure. Supreme success.”

This hexagram symbolizes the possession of great wealth or resources. It signifies success on a grand scale, where everything is aligned for prosperity and abundance. However, it also advises that this wealth should be used wisely and responsibly.

Hexagram 14 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"火在天上,大有。君子以遏恶扬善,顺天休命。"
(Huǒ zài tiān shàng, dà yǒu. Jūn zǐ yǐ è è yáng shàn, shùn tiān xiū mìng.)
English Translation:
“Fire in heaven above: The image of Possession in Great Measure. The superior person curbs evil and promotes good, thus obeying the will of heaven.”

The image of fire in heaven represents the light and power that comes from abundance. The superior person uses this power wisely by restraining harmful actions and promoting good deeds. This alignment with the will of heaven brings lasting success.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team