I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 34 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 8

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 34.1.2.3.4.5 -> 8

34. The Power of the Great (大壯 Dà Zhuàng)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 34

Hexagram 大壯 (Dà Zhuàng) represents great power and strength. This hexagram speaks of a time when great energy and force are available, but it advises using this power with care and wisdom. True strength comes from knowing when and how to apply it.

Hexagram 34 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"大壯,利貞。"
(Dà zhuàng, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The Power of the Great. Perseverance furthers.”

This hexagram advises using great power wisely. Success comes from perseverance and the careful, deliberate application of strength. It is important to avoid rash or impulsive actions.

Hexagram 34 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷在天上,大壯。君子以非禮勿履。"
(Léi zài tiān shàng, dà zhuàng. Jūn zǐ yǐ fēi lǐ wù lǚ.)
English Translation:
“Thunder in heaven above: The image of The Power of the Great. The superior person avoids stepping beyond what is proper.”

The image of thunder in heaven represents great power that must be controlled. The superior person, like thunder, understands the need for restraint and does not overstep the bounds of what is proper.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"壯于趾,徵凶,有孚。"
(Zhuàng yú zhǐ, zhēng xiōng, yǒu fú.)
English Translation:
“Power in the toes. Advancing leads to misfortune. There is sincerity.”

This line warns against acting impulsively or advancing too quickly, as it leads to misfortune. Although there may be sincerity, it advises caution in applying strength.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"貞吉。"
(Zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Perseverance brings good fortune.”

This line advises perseverance and steady application of power. By maintaining a course of consistent strength and not rushing, good fortune follows.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"小人用壯,君子用罔,貞厲,羝羊觸藩,羸其角。"
(Xiǎo rén yòng zhuàng, jūn zǐ yòng wǎng, zhēn lì, dī yáng chù fān, léi qí jiǎo.)
English Translation:
“The inferior person uses power; the superior person uses restraint. Perseverance brings danger. A ram butts against a fence and gets its horns entangled.”

This line contrasts the misuse of power by the inferior person and the wise use of restraint by the superior person. It warns that acting impulsively, like a ram butting a fence, leads to danger and entanglement.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"貞吉,悔亡。藩決不羸,壯于大輿之輹。"
(Zhēn jí, huǐ wáng. Fān jué bù léi, zhuàng yú dà yú zhī fù.)
English Translation:
“Perseverance brings good fortune, and regret disappears. The fence breaks, and the strength is in the axle of a large wagon.”

This line speaks of breaking through barriers. By persevering, regret fades, and one's strength, like that of a large wagon, is fully harnessed. It suggests overcoming obstacles with careful application of power.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"喪羊于易,无悔。"
(Sàng yáng yú yì, wú huǐ.)
English Translation:
“Losing the ram in easy circumstances. No regret.”

This line speaks of avoiding entanglement and danger. By letting go of something (symbolized by the ram), one avoids regret. It advises knowing when to release and not hold on to what may cause trouble.

Changing to:

8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 8

Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.

Hexagram 8 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"比,吉。原筮,元永贞,无咎。不宁方来,后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”

This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.

Hexagram 8 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"水上有地,比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
English Translation:
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”

The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team