I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 2, 3 to Hexagram 6
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.2.3 -> 6
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 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.
Changing to:
6. Conflict (訟 Sòng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 6
Hexagram Sòng (Conflict) represents a time of dispute or disagreement. This hexagram signals a moment when conflicts must be addressed. The key to resolution lies in upholding righteousness and avoiding impulsive reactions driven by anger or emotion.
Hexagram 6 Judgment
"有孚，窒惕，中吉，终凶。利见大人，不利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, zhì tì, zhōng jí, zhōng xiōng. Lì jiàn dà rén, bù lì shè dà chuān.)
“Conflict demands sincerity. Be cautious and halt before it escalates. There is success in the middle, but disaster awaits at the end. It is beneficial to consult a wise person, but unfavorable to undertake major ventures, like crossing a great river.”
Conflict is best managed through sincerity and careful restraint. Success comes from resolving disputes in the middle stage, before they intensify. While there may be some early success, prolonged conflict leads to harm. Seeking advice from a wise figure is beneficial, but engaging in large-scale endeavors (crossing a great river) is unwise during this time.
Hexagram 6 Image
"天与水违行，訟。君子以作事谋始。"
(Tiān yǔ shuǐ wéi xíng, sòng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zuò shì móu shǐ.)
“Heaven and water move in opposite directions—this is the image of Conflict. The wise person uses this time to plan carefully at the outset of any endeavor.”
Heaven and water moving apart symbolize discord and opposition. The wise person uses this time to strategize and avoid rushing into any new ventures, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning in navigating conflict.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team