I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 47 with Changing Lines 2, 6 to Hexagram 12
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 47.2.6 -> 12
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 2 Changing
"困于酒食，朱紱方來，利用享祀。征凶，无咎。"
(Kùn yú jiǔ shí, zhū fú fāng lái, lì yòng xiǎng sì. Zhēng xiōng, wú jiù.)
“Oppressed by food and drink. Scarlet sashes come forward. It is favorable to make offerings and sacrifices. Going forward brings misfortune, but there is no blame.”
This line warns against being overly distracted by material pleasures or indulgences (food and drink). It advises making sacrifices and remaining focused on spiritual or higher goals. Although advancing is difficult, there is no blame for enduring the hardship.
Line 6 Changing
"困于葛藟，于臲卼，曰動悔。有悔，征吉。"
(Kùn yú gé lěi, yú niè wù, yuē dòng huǐ. Yǒu huǐ, zhēng jí.)
“Oppressed by vines. Struggling on uneven ground. Moving leads to regret. Regret disappears. Going forward brings good fortune.”
This line describes being trapped by entanglements (vines) and struggling to find balance on uneven ground. Although moving forward initially brings regret, persevering leads to good fortune. It advises not giving up, even when the path is difficult.
Changing to:
12. Standstill (否 Pǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 12
Hexagram 否 (Pǐ) symbolizes standstill or stagnation. This hexagram represents a time when progress halts, and opposing forces prevent movement forward. It advises patience and waiting for more favorable conditions.
Hexagram 12 Judgment
"否之匪人，不利君子贞，大往小来。"
(Pǐ zhī fěi rén, bù lì jūn zǐ zhēn, dà wǎng xiǎo lái.)
“Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior person. The great departs; the small approaches.”
In times of standstill, negative forces dominate, making it difficult for the superior person to act. The good or great things seem to recede, while small, petty concerns take their place. This hexagram advises patience and restraint until the situation improves.
Hexagram 12 Image
"天地不交，否。君子以俭德辟难，不可荣以禄。"
(Tiān dì bù jiāo, pǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiǎn dé pì nàn, bù kě róng yǐ lù.)
“Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. The superior person uses modesty to avoid difficulties. He does not boast of riches or honors.”
The image of heaven and earth not interacting symbolizes a breakdown in harmony, leading to stagnation. The superior person recognizes that in such times, it is better to remain modest, avoid drawing attention, and wait for a more favorable situation.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team