I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 40 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 15

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 40.2.3.4 -> 15

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷雨作,解。君子以赦過宥罪。"
(Léi yǔ zuò, xiè. Jūn zǐ yǐ shè guò yòu zuì.)
English Translation:
“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 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"田獲三狐,得黃矢,貞吉。"
(Tián huò sān hú, dé huáng shǐ, zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“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 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"負且乘,致寇至,貞吝。"
(Fù qiě chéng, zhì kòu zhì, zhēn lìn.)
English Translation:
“Carrying a burden and riding in a carriage. Inviting robbers to attack. Perseverance brings humiliation.”

This line warns of overextending oneself. Trying to do too much, or taking on unnecessary burdens, invites trouble. It advises caution and humility to avoid misfortune.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"解而拇,朋至斯孚。"
(Xiè ér mǔ, péng zhì sī fú.)
English Translation:
“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.

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"謙亨,君子有終。"
(Qiān hēng, jūn zǐ yǒu zhōng.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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