I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 44 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 7
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 44.3.4.5.6 -> 7
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
"姤，女壯，勿用取女。"
(Gòu, nǚ zhuàng, wù yòng qǔ nǚ.)
“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
"天下有風，姤。後以施命誥四方。"
(Tiān xià yǒu fēng, gòu. Hòu yǐ shī mìng gào sìfāng.)
“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 3 Changing
"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.)
“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
"包無魚，起凶。"
(Bāo wú yú, qǐ xiōng.)
“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 5 Changing
"以杞包瓜，含章，有隕自天。"
(Yǐ qǐ bāo guā, hán zhāng, yǒu yǔn zì tiān.)
“Wrapping melons in willow leaves. Containing brilliance. There is a fall from heaven.”
This line describes containing something precious (symbolized by the melon) with something fragile (willow leaves). It speaks of great potential, but also the risk of loss or failure. It advises protecting what is valuable and being cautious of outside forces.
Line 6 Changing
"姤其角，吝，無咎。"
(Gòu qí jiǎo, lìn, wú jiù.)
“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:
7. The Army (師 Shī)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 7
Hexagram 師 (Shī) represents the army and the discipline and organization required to achieve victory. This hexagram speaks of leadership, collective effort, and the strength derived from unity and command.
Hexagram 7 Judgment
"师贞，丈人吉，无咎。"
(Shī zhēn, zhàng rén jí, wú jiù.)
“The Army needs perseverance and a strong leader. Good fortune. No blame.”
An army, or any collective effort, requires perseverance and a capable leader to succeed. When these conditions are met, good fortune follows, and no harm comes to those involved.
Hexagram 7 Image
"地中有水，師。君子以容民畜众。"
(Dì zhōng yǒu shuǐ, shī. Jūn zǐ yǐ róng mín xù zhòng.)
“Water is within the earth: The image of The Army. The superior person nourishes the people and builds a great community.”
The image of water within the earth represents the hidden strength and resources of a collective group. The superior person understands how to nurture and unite these resources, creating a strong and cohesive community.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team