I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 47 with Changing Lines 1, 5 to Hexagram 54
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 47.1.5 -> 54
47. Oppression (困 Kùn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 47
Hexagram 困 (Kùn) represents oppression, hardship, or restriction. This hexagram speaks of a time when one is trapped or hindered by external pressures or internal struggles. Success comes from endurance, inner strength, and seeking support from others.
Hexagram 47 Judgment
"困，亨，貞大人吉，无咎，有言不信。"
(Kùn, hēng, zhēn dàrén jí, wú jiù, yǒu yán bù xìn.)
“Oppression. Success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the great person. No blame. Words are not believed.”
This hexagram advises persevering through hardship and remaining true to one's principles. Success comes from maintaining integrity despite oppression. Although others may not believe in one's words, staying committed leads to good fortune.
Hexagram 47 Image
"澤無水，困。君子以致命遂志。"
(Zé wú shuǐ, kùn. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhì mìng suì zhì.)
“The lake has no water: The image of Oppression. The superior person brings their fate to completion and fulfills their will.”
The image of a dry lake represents a time of lack and hardship. The superior person, however, continues to pursue their purpose, even in the face of adversity. By accepting their fate and remaining determined, they fulfill their mission.
Line 1 Changing
"臀困于株木，入于幽谷，三歲不覿。"
(Tún kùn yú zhū mù, rù yú yōu gǔ, sān suì bù dí.)
“Oppressed by a wooden stockade. Entering into a dark valley. For three years, one does not see the light.”
This line describes being trapped and oppressed, symbolized by the wooden stockade and the dark valley. It advises patience and endurance, as the situation may take time to resolve.
Line 5 Changing
"劓刖，困于赤紱，乃徐有說，利用祭祀。"
(Yì yuè, kùn yú chì fú, nǎi xú yǒu shuō, lì yòng jì sì.)
“Nose and feet are cut off. Oppressed by a red sash. Gradually, there is joy. It is favorable to make offerings and sacrifices.”
This line speaks of extreme hardship and oppression, symbolized by the loss of physical abilities and the burden of authority (the red sash). However, through endurance and perseverance, relief and joy gradually come. It advises making spiritual offerings to overcome the hardship.
Changing to:
54. The Marrying Maiden (歸妹 Guī Mèi)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 54
Hexagram 歸妹 (Guī Mèi) represents the marrying maiden, symbolizing the secondary role and the idea of following established protocols. This hexagram speaks of relationships where one may not have full autonomy, requiring adaptation. Success comes from understanding one's position and accepting supportive roles.
Hexagram 54 Judgment
"歸妹，征凶，无攸利。"
(Guī Mèi, zhēng xiōng, wú yōu lì.)
“The Marrying Maiden. Going forward brings misfortune. Nothing is favorable.”
This hexagram advises caution in advancing into a situation where one lacks full authority or power, as misfortune may follow. It speaks of accepting limitations and adapting to circumstances without overreaching.
Hexagram 54 Image
"澤上有雷，歸妹。君子以永終知敝。"
(Zé shàng yǒu léi, guī mèi. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǒng zhōng zhī bì.)
“Thunder over the lake: The image of The Marrying Maiden. The superior person is careful about endings and recognizes the imperfection of things.”
The image of thunder over the lake symbolizes a situation of imbalance, where one must adapt to changing conditions. The superior person understands that all things are temporary and imperfect, leading to wisdom and balance.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team