I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 48 with Changing Lines 5 to Hexagram 46

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 48.5 -> 46

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.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"井冽寒泉食。"
(Jǐng liè hán quán shí.)
English Translation:
“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:

46. Pushing Upward (升 Shēng)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 46

Hexagram 升 (Shēng) represents upward progress, growth, and advancement. This hexagram speaks of steady, consistent effort to improve one's position or circumstances. Success comes from persistence, gradual advancement, and humility.

Hexagram 46 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"升,元亨,用見大人,勿恤,南征吉。"
(Shēng, yuán hēng, yòng jiàn dàrén, wù xù, nán zhēng jí.)
English Translation:
“Pushing Upward. Supreme success. It is favorable to see the great person. Do not worry. Going south brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises slow and steady progress toward one's goals. Success comes from seeking the guidance of a wise person, remaining patient, and advancing in a humble and deliberate manner. The direction south symbolizes a favorable course of action.

Hexagram 46 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地中生木,升。君子以順德,積小以高大。"
(Dì zhōng shēng mù, shēng. Jūn zǐ yǐ shùn dé, jī xiǎo yǐ gāo dà.)
English Translation:
“Wood grows up from the earth: The image of Pushing Upward. The superior person, by cultivating virtue, builds small things to achieve greatness.”

The image of wood growing from the earth symbolizes slow, steady growth. The superior person cultivates their character and gradually builds up small successes into great accomplishments. Patience and consistency are key.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team