I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 48 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 56
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 48.2.4.5.6 -> 56
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
"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.)
“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
"木上有水,井。君子以勞民勸相。"
(Mù shàng yǒu shuǐ, jǐng. Jūn zǐ yǐ láo mín quàn xiāng.)
“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.
Line 2 Changing
"井谷射鮒,瓮敝漏。"
(Jǐng gǔ shè fù, wèng bì lòu.)
“The well is deep, but small fish are caught. The jug is broken and leaks.”
This line speaks of a well that is deep but not fully utilized. Although it has great potential, only small gains are made, and the tools (symbolized by the leaking jug) are inadequate. It advises improving one’s methods and tools to fully access the well’s resources.
Line 4 Changing
"井甃,無咎。"
(Jǐng zhòu, wú jiù.)
“The well is lined with stones. No blame.”
This line speaks of a well that has been properly constructed and maintained, symbolized by the stone lining. There is no blame, and it advises keeping things in good order for long-term success.
Line 5 Changing
"井冽寒泉食。"
(Jǐng liè hán quán shí.)
“The well is clear and cold. People drink from it.”
This line describes a well that is in perfect condition, providing clear, cold water that is freely used. It symbolizes a resource that is being fully utilized for the benefit of all, bringing success and nourishment.
Line 6 Changing
"井收勿幕,有孚元吉。"
(Jǐng shōu wù mù, yǒu fú yuán jí.)
“The well is covered, but not sealed. With sincerity, great good fortune.”
This line advises protecting valuable resources (symbolized by the well), but not hiding them away. By keeping the well accessible and maintaining sincerity, great good fortune comes. It encourages openness and generosity.
Changing to:
56. The Wanderer (旅 Lǚ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 56
Hexagram 旅 (Lǚ) represents the wanderer, one who travels and is not rooted in a single place. This hexagram speaks of a time when one must adapt to unfamiliar circumstances, relying on resourcefulness and resilience. Success comes from knowing when to move on and how to navigate changing environments.
Hexagram 56 Judgment
"旅,小亨,旅貞吉。"
(Lǚ, xiǎo hēng, lǚ zhēn jí.)
“The Wanderer. Small success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the wanderer.”
This hexagram advises that while traveling or navigating unfamiliar situations, success comes from perseverance and adaptability. Although the progress may be small, by remaining flexible and resourceful, good fortune follows.
Hexagram 56 Image
"山上有火,旅。君子以明慎用刑,而不留狱。"
(Shān shàng yǒu huǒ, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ míng shèn yòng xíng, ér bù liú yù.)
“Fire on the mountain: The image of The Wanderer. The superior person is clear-minded and careful in the use of punishment, avoiding holding prisoners for long.”
The image of fire on the mountain represents a time of transience and impermanence. The superior person, like the wanderer, remains clear-minded and cautious, taking decisive action but not becoming too attached to any single place or situation.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team