I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 40 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 33

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 40.2.3.5.6 -> 33

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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"君子維有解,吉;有孚于小人。"
(Jūn zǐ wéi yǒu xiè, jí; yǒu fú yú xiǎo rén.)
English Translation:
“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.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"公用射隼于高墉之上,獲之,无不利。"
(Gōng yòng shè sǔn yú gāo yōng zhī shàng, huò zhī, wú bù lì.)
English Translation:
“The lord shoots a hawk on the high wall and catches it. Nothing is unfavorable.”

This line describes a precise and successful action, symbolized by shooting the hawk. By acting decisively and with precision, all obstacles are overcome, and success is ensured.

Changing to:

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"遯,亨。小利貞。"
(Dùn, hēng. Xiǎo lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“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

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

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team