I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 1, 5 to Hexagram 30

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.1.5 -> 30

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 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:

30. The Clinging, Fire (離 Lí)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☲ Lí (Fire)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 30

Hexagram 離 (Lí) symbolizes fire, which clings to the wood that fuels it. This hexagram speaks of dependence and clarity, as fire illuminates and requires a source of energy. Success comes from clear vision and the ability to adapt and depend on the right things.

Hexagram 30 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"利貞,亨。畜牝牛,吉。"
(Lì zhēn, hēng. Xù pìn niú, jí.)
English Translation:
“Perseverance furthers. Success. Cultivating a cow brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises clarity and perseverance. Success comes from cultivating something stable and dependable, like a cow. By tending to one's responsibilities and maintaining clear vision, good fortune is assured.

Hexagram 30 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"明兩作,離。大人以繼明照四方。"
(Míng liǎng zuò, lí. Dà rén yǐ jì míng zhào sì fāng.)
English Translation:
“Fire above and fire below: The image of The Clinging, Fire. The superior person continues the light of clarity to illuminate the four corners of the world.”

The image of fire reflects the need for clarity and illumination. The superior person spreads understanding and insight, ensuring that light and truth reach all corners of the world. It is a time to bring clarity to situations.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team