I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 40 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 20

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 40.2.4.5.6 -> 20

Old Yin Old Yin Old Yang Young Yin Old Yang Young Yin

40. Deliverance

Yang Yang Yin Yin Yin Yin

20. Contemplation

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 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.

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:

20. Contemplation (觀 Guān)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 20

Hexagram 觀 (Guān) symbolizes contemplation and observation. This hexagram represents a time to pause and reflect, gaining insight through careful observation rather than immediate action.

Hexagram 20 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"觀，盥而不薦，有孚顒若。"
(Guān, guàn ér bù jiàn, yǒu fú yǒng ruò.)
English Translation:
“Contemplation. Washing the hands, but not making an offering. With sincerity and awareness, clarity comes.”

This hexagram speaks of taking time to reflect before making decisions or taking action. By cultivating sincerity and careful observation, clarity and insight are gained. It advises patience and deep contemplation.

Hexagram 20 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風行地上，觀。先王以省方，觀民設教。"
(Fēng xíng dì shàng, guān. Xiān wáng yǐ xǐng fāng, guān mín shè jiào.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows over the earth: The image of Contemplation. The ancient kings made tours of inspection to observe the people and teach them.”

The wind blowing over the earth symbolizes the power of observation. The superior person uses this time to observe, learn, and understand, much like the ancient kings who traveled to see the state of their people and teach them accordingly.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team