I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 44 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 6 to Hexagram 5

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 44.1.4.6 -> 5

44. Coming to Meet (姤 Gòu)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 44

Hexagram 姤 (Gòu) represents an unexpected encounter or meeting. This hexagram speaks of sudden developments or the arrival of someone or something unexpected. Success comes from being prepared and handling the encounter with care.

Hexagram 44 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"姤,女壯,勿用取女。"
(Gòu, nǚ zhuàng, wù yòng qǔ nǚ.)
English Translation:
“Coming to Meet. The woman is strong. Do not marry such a woman.”

This hexagram advises caution when dealing with unexpected encounters, especially if the situation involves a strong or dominant force. The reference to not marrying such a woman speaks to the need for careful consideration and not rushing into commitments.

Hexagram 44 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天下有風,姤。後以施命誥四方。"
(Tiān xià yǒu fēng, gòu. Hòu yǐ shī mìng gào sìfāng.)
English Translation:
“Wind beneath heaven: The image of Coming to Meet. The superior person announces their commands to the four corners of the world.”

The image of wind beneath heaven represents a message or announcement being carried far and wide. The superior person, like the wind, spreads their influence and communicates clearly with others.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"繫于金柅,貞吉。有攸往,見凶,牽羊悔亡,聞言不信。"
(Xì yú jīn nì, zhēn jí. Yǒu yōu wǎng, jiàn xiōng, qiān yáng huǐ wáng, wén yán bù xìn.)
English Translation:
“Tied with a metal brake. Perseverance brings good fortune. If one continues, they meet with misfortune. Pulling a sheep, regret disappears. Hearing words but not believing them.”

This line speaks of restraint, symbolized by the metal brake. While perseverance brings good fortune, pushing forward too forcefully leads to misfortune. By taking things slowly and reflecting, regret disappears. It warns against disbelief in helpful advice.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"包無魚,起凶。"
(Bāo wú yú, qǐ xiōng.)
English Translation:
“The bag is empty. Misfortune rises.”

This line describes a situation where nothing is gained (the bag is empty). It warns that misfortune may arise if one acts without considering the risks or if expectations are too high. It advises caution in managing resources and expectations.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"姤其角,吝,無咎。"
(Gòu qí jiǎo, lìn, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Meeting with horns. There is regret, but no blame.”

This line describes an encounter with conflict or opposition, symbolized by horns. While there may be regret or difficulty, there is no blame if one handles the situation with care. It advises caution and avoiding unnecessary confrontation.

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