I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 33 with Changing Lines 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 15
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 33.4.5.6 -> 15
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 4 Changing
"好遯，君子吉，小人否。"
(Hào dùn, jūn zǐ jí, xiǎo rén pǐ.)
“Delighting in retreat. The superior person finds good fortune, while the inferior person does not.”
This line speaks of the wisdom of knowing when to retreat. The superior person understands the benefits of withdrawal and finds good fortune in doing so, while the inferior person struggles with the concept and does not benefit.
Line 5 Changing
"嘉遯，貞吉。"
(Jiā dùn, zhēn jí.)
“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
"肥遯，无不利。"
(Féi dùn, wú bù lì.)
“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:
15. Modesty (謙 Qiān)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 15
Hexagram 謙 (Qiān) symbolizes modesty. This hexagram represents the virtue of humility, where individuals acknowledge their limitations and act without arrogance. Modesty brings success by allowing growth and development without drawing negative attention.
Hexagram 15 Judgment
"謙亨，君子有終。"
(Qiān hēng, jūn zǐ yǒu zhōng.)
“Modesty creates success. The superior person completes their task.”
This hexagram advises modest behavior and humility as the key to success. The superior person accomplishes their goals by staying humble and grounded. Modesty allows them to remain focused and avoid unnecessary challenges.
Hexagram 15 Image
"地中有山，謙。君子以裒多益寡，稱物平施。"
(Dì zhōng yǒu shān, qiān. Jūn zǐ yǐ póu duō yì guǎ, chēng wù píng shī.)
“Within the earth, there is a mountain: The image of Modesty. The superior person reduces that which is too much and augments that which is too little, thus balancing the gift of things.”
The image of a mountain within the earth symbolizes hidden strength. The superior person uses this time to balance things, helping those with less and gently reducing the excess of those with more. This creates harmony and equilibrium in the world.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team