I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 40 with Changing Lines 2, 5, 6 to Hexagram 12

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 40.2.5.6 -> 12

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 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:

12. Standstill (否 Pǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 12

Hexagram 否 (Pǐ) symbolizes standstill or stagnation. This hexagram represents a time when progress halts, and opposing forces prevent movement forward. It advises patience and waiting for more favorable conditions.

Hexagram 12 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"否之匪人,不利君子贞,大往小来。"
(Pǐ zhī fěi rén, bù lì jūn zǐ zhēn, dà wǎng xiǎo lái.)
English Translation:
“Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior person. The great departs; the small approaches.”

In times of standstill, negative forces dominate, making it difficult for the superior person to act. The good or great things seem to recede, while small, petty concerns take their place. This hexagram advises patience and restraint until the situation improves.

Hexagram 12 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天地不交,否。君子以俭德辟难,不可荣以禄。"
(Tiān dì bù jiāo, pǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiǎn dé pì nàn, bù kě róng yǐ lù.)
English Translation:
“Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. The superior person uses modesty to avoid difficulties. He does not boast of riches or honors.”

The image of heaven and earth not interacting symbolizes a breakdown in harmony, leading to stagnation. The superior person recognizes that in such times, it is better to remain modest, avoid drawing attention, and wait for a more favorable situation.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team