I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 44 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 8

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 44.2.3.4.6 -> 8

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 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"包有魚,無咎,不利賓。"
(Bāo yǒu yú, wú jiù, bù lì bīn.)
English Translation:
“There is fish in the bag. No blame. It is not favorable to act as a host.”

This line describes an unexpected gain (symbolized by fish in the bag), which brings no blame. However, it advises against acting as a host or assuming leadership at this time, as this may not be favorable.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"臀无膚,其行次且,牽羊悔亡,聞言不信。"
(Tún wú fū, qí xíng cì qiě, qiān yáng huǐ wáng, wén yán bù xìn.)
English Translation:
“The buttocks have no flesh. One walks with difficulty. Pulling a sheep, regret disappears. Hearing words but not believing them.”

This line speaks of challenges and difficulties in moving forward, symbolized by the lack of flesh. By making the necessary effort and following advice, regret disappears. However, disbelief in good advice can prolong difficulties.

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:

8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 8

Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.

Hexagram 8 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"比,吉。原筮,元永贞,无咎。不宁方来,后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”

This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.

Hexagram 8 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"水上有地,比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
English Translation:
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”

The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team