I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 3, 5 to Hexagram 35

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.3.5 -> 35

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

33. Retreat

Yang Yin Yang Yin Yin Yin

35. Progress

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 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 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:

35. Progress (晉 Jìn)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 35

Hexagram 晉 (Jìn) represents progress and advancement. This hexagram speaks of a time of rapid movement and development, fueled by enthusiasm and the support of others. Success comes from steady, forward motion and remaining adaptable.

Hexagram 35 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"晉，康侯用錫馬蕃庶，晝日三接。"
(Jìn, kāng hóu yòng xī mǎ fán shù, zhòu rì sān jiē.)
English Translation:
“Progress. The prince is honored with horses in large numbers. He is granted audience three times in one day.”

This hexagram describes a time of rapid progress, where great honors and opportunities come frequently. Success comes from maintaining this momentum and taking advantage of opportunities as they arise.

Hexagram 35 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"明出地上，晉。君子以自昭明德。"
(Míng chū dì shàng, jìn. Jūn zǐ yǐ zì zhāo míng dé.)
English Translation:
“The sun rises above the earth: The image of Progress. The superior person illuminates their own virtue.”

The image of the sun rising represents progress and growth. The superior person uses this time to bring clarity and illumination to their virtues, spreading light and understanding to others.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team