I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 2, 5, 6 to Hexagram 32

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.2.5.6 -> 32

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

33. Retreat

Yin Yin Yang Yang Yang Yin

32. Duration

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 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.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"肥遯，无不利。"
(Féi dùn, wú bù lì.)
English Translation:
“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:

32. Duration (恆 Héng)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 32

Hexagram 恆 (Héng) symbolizes endurance and lasting strength. This hexagram speaks of the need for stability, perseverance, and consistency in all things. Success comes from maintaining a steady course over time.

Hexagram 32 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"亨，利貞。利有攸往。"
(Hēng, lì zhēn. Lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“Duration. Success. Perseverance furthers. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.”

This hexagram advises perseverance and stability. Success comes from maintaining a steady course, and it is favorable to have a clear direction. Endurance brings long-lasting success.

Hexagram 32 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷風，恆。君子以立不易方。"
(Léi fēng, héng. Jūn zǐ yǐ lì bù yì fāng.)
English Translation:
“Thunder and wind: The image of Duration. The superior person stands firm and does not change their direction.”

The image of thunder and wind represents the forces of nature that persist over time. The superior person, like these forces, stands firm and does not change their direction easily. Consistency and stability are key to success.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team