I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 34 with Changing Lines 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 9
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 34.4.5.6 -> 9
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
"大壯,利貞。"
(Dà zhuàng, lì zhēn.)
“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
"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.)
“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 4 Changing
"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.)
“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
"喪羊于易,无悔。"
(Sàng yáng yú yì, wú huǐ.)
“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.
Line 6 Changing
"羝羊觸藩,不能退,不能遂,无攸利,艱則吉。"
(Dī yáng chù fān, bù néng tuì, bù néng suì, wú yōu lì, jiān zé jí.)
“A ram butts against a fence. It cannot advance or retreat. Nothing is favorable, but perseverance brings good fortune.”
This line describes a situation where one is stuck, unable to move forward or back, like a ram entangled in a fence. Although it is an unfavorable situation, perseverance and patience eventually bring good fortune.
Changing to:
9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 9
Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.
Hexagram 9 Judgment
"小畜,亨。密云不雨,自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”
This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.
Hexagram 9 Image
"风行天上,小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”
The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team