I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 40 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 4, 5 to Hexagram 3
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 40.1.2.4.5 -> 3
40. Deliverance (解 Xiè)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 40
Hexagram 解 (Xiè) symbolizes release from difficulty or deliverance. This hexagram speaks of a time when tensions ease, obstacles are removed, and liberation is possible. Success comes from seizing the opportunity to move forward after a period of difficulty.
Hexagram 40 Judgment
"解,利西南。无所往,其來復吉。有攸往,夙吉。"
(Xiè, lì xī nán. Wú suǒ wǎng, qí lái fù jí. Yǒu yōu wǎng, sù jí.)
“Deliverance. It is favorable to go southwest. If there is nothing to pursue, returning brings good fortune. If there is something to pursue, setting out early brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises taking advantage of the easing of difficulties to move forward. If there is nothing urgent to pursue, it is best to return and rest. However, if there is a goal, starting early brings success.
Hexagram 40 Image
"雷雨作,解。君子以赦過宥罪。"
(Léi yǔ zuò, xiè. Jūn zǐ yǐ shè guò yòu zuì.)
“Thunder and rain set in: The image of Deliverance. The superior person pardons mistakes and forgives offenses.”
The image of thunder and rain symbolizes the release of tension and the clearing away of obstacles. The superior person, in a time of deliverance, shows mercy and forgiveness, helping others to move forward.
Line 1 Changing
"无咎。"
(Wú jiù.)
“No blame.”
This line suggests that the time of deliverance is beginning, and there is no blame for any past difficulties. It advises moving forward without fear of reproach.
Line 2 Changing
"田獲三狐,得黃矢,貞吉。"
(Tián huò sān hú, dé huáng shǐ, zhēn jí.)
“In the field, catching three foxes, and receiving yellow arrows. Perseverance brings good fortune.”
This line describes a successful hunt, symbolizing the overcoming of difficulties. The yellow arrows represent guidance or clarity. Perseverance in the current course brings continued success.
Line 4 Changing
"解而拇,朋至斯孚。"
(Xiè ér mǔ, péng zhì sī fú.)
“Deliverance with the toes. Friends come and trust grows.”
This line speaks of the beginning of deliverance, symbolized by the movement of the toes. Friends and allies come together, and mutual trust develops, helping to overcome the difficulties.
Line 5 Changing
"君子維有解,吉;有孚于小人。"
(Jūn zǐ wéi yǒu xiè, jí; yǒu fú yú xiǎo rén.)
“The superior person finds deliverance. Good fortune. Trust is given even to inferior people.”
This line describes a time when the superior person finds freedom from difficulties, bringing good fortune. Trust is extended to others, even those who are less trustworthy, as a sign of generosity and leadership.
Changing to:
3. Difficulty at the Beginning (屯 Zhūn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 3
Hexagram 屯 (Zhūn) symbolizes difficulty and confusion at the beginning of a new venture. It represents the struggles encountered at the outset of creation or development. Like sprouting seeds pushing through the soil, progress is slow, uncertain, and requires persistence. Zhūn encourages perseverance in the face of obstacles and advises careful planning and patience in the early stages. This hexagram illustrates that chaos often precedes order, and that new beginnings, though difficult, are full of potential once obstacles are overcome.
Hexagram 3 Judgment
"元亨,利贞,勿用有攸往,利建侯。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng, lì jiàn hóu.)
“Sublime success. Perseverance furthers. Do not act in haste; it is favorable to establish lords.”
The judgment emphasizes that despite the initial difficulties, success is possible through perseverance. Acting hastily or impulsively is discouraged. The mention of establishing lords represents the need for careful organization, strategic planning, and forming alliances. It suggests the importance of solid foundations before advancing, as well as surrounding oneself with trusted individuals or a supportive network in times of hardship.
Hexagram 3 Image
"云雷,屯。君子以经纶。"
(Yún léi, zhūn. Jūn zǐ yǐ jīng lún.)
“Clouds and thunder: Difficulty at the beginning. The superior man brings order out of confusion.”
The image of clouds and thunder signifies the chaotic and tumultuous energy of the early stages of development. Clouds gather but do not yet produce rain, while thunder rumbles without lightning—a metaphor for potential that has not yet materialized. The superior man acts with wisdom and foresight, organizing and directing these chaotic forces toward a structured outcome. The lesson here is to remain patient and focused, trusting that with deliberate action, chaos can be transformed into order.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team