I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 3, 6 to Hexagram 45

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.3.6 -> 45

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 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:

45. Gathering Together (萃 Cuì)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Dùi (Lake)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 45

Hexagram 萃 (Cuì) represents gathering together or assembling. This hexagram speaks of the strength and unity that come from collective efforts. Success comes from mutual support, working toward a common goal, and joining forces to overcome challenges.

Hexagram 45 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"萃,亨。王假有廟,利見大人,亨,利貞。"
(Cuì, hēng. Wáng jiǎ yǒu miào, lì jiàn dàrén, hēng, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Gathering Together. Success. The king approaches his temple. It is favorable to meet the great person. Success. Perseverance furthers.”

This hexagram advises coming together for a common purpose. Success comes from collective efforts and seeking wise counsel. The image of the king approaching the temple symbolizes the importance of ritual, tradition, and collective harmony.

Hexagram 45 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤上于地,萃。君子以除戎器,戒不虞。"
(Zé shàng yú dì, cuì. Jūn zǐ yǐ chú róng qì, jiè bù yú.)
English Translation:
“The lake rises up to the earth: The image of Gathering Together. The superior person takes up weapons of war and guards against unexpected attacks.”

The image of the lake rising to the earth symbolizes unity and preparation. The superior person remains vigilant and prepared, guarding against unforeseen dangers, while fostering harmony and unity within the group.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team