I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 48 with Changing Lines 3, 5 to Hexagram 7
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 48.3.5 -> 7
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 3 Changing
"井渫不食，為我心惻，可用汲，王明並受其福。"
(Jǐng xiè bù shí, wéi wǒ xīn cè, kě yòng jí, wáng míng bìng shòu qí fú.)
“The well has been cleaned but is still not used. My heart is troubled. It can be drawn from. The king receives blessings when enlightened.”
This line describes a well that has been made usable, but no one is drawing from it. It advises removing mental or emotional obstacles and accessing the well’s resources. When properly used, the well brings great blessings to those in leadership.
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.
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