I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 42 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 6 to Hexagram 5

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 42.2.3.6 -> 5

42. Increase (益 Yì)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 42

Hexagram 益 (Yì) represents increase, growth, or expansion. This hexagram speaks of a time when positive developments and opportunities for growth are present. Success comes from giving and sharing with others, which leads to mutual benefit and prosperity.

Hexagram 42 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"益,利有攸往,利涉大川。"
(Yì, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, lì shè dà chuān.)
English Translation:
“Increase. It is favorable to have somewhere to go. It is favorable to cross the great river.”

This hexagram advises taking advantage of opportunities for growth. Moving forward with purpose and crossing challenges (symbolized by the great river) brings success. By being generous and sharing resources, one fosters mutual prosperity.

Hexagram 42 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風雷,益。君子以見善則遷,有過則改。"
(Fēng léi, yì. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiàn shàn zé qiān, yǒu guò zé gǎi.)
English Translation:
“Wind and thunder: The image of Increase. The superior person sees good and moves toward it. If they see a mistake, they correct it.”

The image of wind and thunder represents dynamic energy and growth. The superior person uses this energy to recognize opportunities for improvement and correction. By moving toward what is good and correcting errors, one fosters growth and success.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"或益之,十朋之龜弗克違,元吉。"
(Huò yì zhī, shí péng zhī guī fú kè wéi, yuán jí.)
English Translation:
“Someone increases it. A tortoise of ten friends cannot be opposed. Great good fortune.”

This line describes an unexpected gift or increase from others, which brings great good fortune. Like a tortoise, the increase is steady and cannot be opposed. It advises accepting help and gifts when they come.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"益之用凶事,無咎。有孚,中行告公用圭。"
(Yì zhī yòng xiōng shì, wú jiù. Yǒu fú, zhōng xíng gào gōng yòng guī.)
English Translation:
“Increasing during difficult times. No blame. There is sincerity. A middle path is followed, and the leader is informed using a jade tablet.”

This line speaks of increasing one's efforts during challenging times. With sincerity and balance, difficulties can be overcome. The jade tablet symbolizes respect and clear communication with authority figures, leading to resolution.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"無平不陂,無往不復。艱貞吉,利有攸往。"
(Wú píng bù bēi, wú wǎng bù fù. Jiān zhēn jí, lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“There is no level ground that does not slope, no going forth without returning. Perseverance through difficulty brings good fortune. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.”

This line speaks of the natural cycles of increase and decrease. Just as the ground slopes after a flat stretch, everything eventually returns. By persevering through difficult times, good fortune is found. It advises having a clear goal and moving toward it.

Changing to:

5. Waiting (Nourishment) (需 Xū)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 5

Hexagram 需 (Xū) represents waiting or nourishing. It reflects a time when patience and perseverance are necessary to allow circumstances to unfold naturally. The image is of rain held in the clouds, which will eventually fall, nourishing the earth. In human terms, it advises readiness without rushing, cultivating inner strength while waiting for the right moment to act.

Hexagram 5 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚,光亨,贞吉。利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, guāng hēng, zhēn jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
English Translation:
“If you are sincere, you have light and success. Perseverance brings good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great water.”

This Judgment emphasizes the importance of sincerity and clarity during times of waiting. Success will come through perseverance and maintaining one's integrity. The phrase 'cross the great water' suggests a major challenge or journey that can be successfully undertaken if approached with patience and readiness.

Hexagram 5 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"云上于天,需。君子以饮食宴乐。"
(Yún shàng yú tiān, xū. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǐn shí yàn lè.)
English Translation:
“Clouds rise up to heaven: The image of Waiting. The superior person eats and drinks, is joyful and at ease.”

The image of clouds rising up to heaven indicates that rain is not yet falling. This represents a period of waiting before action. The superior person takes this time to enjoy life's simple pleasures—food, drink, and joy—without anxiety. It is a call to cultivate patience and inner peace while waiting for the right moment.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team