I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 47 with Changing Lines 3, 4 to Hexagram 48

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 47.3.4 -> 48

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"困,亨,貞大人吉,无咎,有言不信。"
(Kùn, hēng, zhēn dàrén jí, wú jiù, yǒu yán bù xìn.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤無水,困。君子以致命遂志。"
(Zé wú shuǐ, kùn. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhì mìng suì zhì.)
English Translation:
“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 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"困于石,据于蒺藜,入于其宮,不見其妻,凶。"
(Kùn yú shí, jù yú jí lí, rù yú qí gōng, bù jiàn qí qī, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Oppressed by rocks, clinging to thorn bushes. Entering the palace, one does not see their wife. Misfortune.”

This line describes severe hardship, where progress is blocked by physical and emotional obstacles (rocks and thorns). It advises that isolation and separation from loved ones may lead to misfortune, and patience is needed to overcome the situation.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"來徐徐,困于金車,吝,有終。"
(Lái xú xú, kùn yú jīn chē, lìn, yǒu zhōng.)
English Translation:
“Arriving slowly. Oppressed in a golden chariot. Regret, but the end is favorable.”

This line describes slow progress and the burden of wealth or material possessions (symbolized by the golden chariot). Although there is regret, the situation eventually resolves favorably. It advises patience and steady progress.

Changing to:

48. The Well (井 Jǐng)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 48

Hexagram 井 (Jǐng) represents a well, which provides life-sustaining water to all. This hexagram speaks of the importance of tapping into shared resources and maintaining those resources to benefit everyone. Success comes from nurturing and distributing the wellspring of knowledge, energy, or resources.

Hexagram 48 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"井,改邑不改井,无喪无得。往來井井,汔至亦未繘井,羸其瓶,凶。"
(Jǐng, gǎi yì bù gǎi jǐng, wú sàng wú dé. Wǎng lái jǐng jǐng, qì zhì yì wèi jué jǐng, léi qí píng, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“The Well. The town may be changed, but the well cannot be changed. It neither decreases nor increases. People come and go, drawing from the well. If the water reaches but the rope does not pull it up, or if the jug is broken, misfortune.”

This hexagram advises maintaining a stable source of resources or support. The well represents a constant and essential resource that should be cared for and utilized properly. Success comes from ensuring the well's continued function. Misfortune arises when the well is neglected or improperly used.

Hexagram 48 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"木上有水,井。君子以勞民勸相。"
(Mù shàng yǒu shuǐ, jǐng. Jūn zǐ yǐ láo mín quàn xiāng.)
English Translation:
“Water over wood: The image of The Well. The superior person encourages the people to work and inspire each other.”

The image of water over wood symbolizes the well’s ability to sustain life. The superior person draws on the well of human resources, inspiring and organizing others to contribute to the collective effort, ensuring the community thrives.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team