I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 5 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 23
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 5.1.2.3.5.6 -> 23
5. Waiting (Nourishment) (需 Xū)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 5
Hexagram 需 (Xū) represents waiting or nourishing. It reflects a time when patience and perseverance are necessary to allow circumstances to unfold naturally. The image is of rain held in the clouds, which will eventually fall, nourishing the earth. In human terms, it advises readiness without rushing, cultivating inner strength while waiting for the right moment to act.
Hexagram 5 Judgment
"有孚,光亨,贞吉。利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, guāng hēng, zhēn jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
“If you are sincere, you have light and success. Perseverance brings good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great water.”
This Judgment emphasizes the importance of sincerity and clarity during times of waiting. Success will come through perseverance and maintaining one's integrity. The phrase 'cross the great water' suggests a major challenge or journey that can be successfully undertaken if approached with patience and readiness.
Hexagram 5 Image
"云上于天,需。君子以饮食宴乐。"
(Yún shàng yú tiān, xū. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǐn shí yàn lè.)
“Clouds rise up to heaven: The image of Waiting. The superior person eats and drinks, is joyful and at ease.”
The image of clouds rising up to heaven indicates that rain is not yet falling. This represents a period of waiting before action. The superior person takes this time to enjoy life's simple pleasures—food, drink, and joy—without anxiety. It is a call to cultivate patience and inner peace while waiting for the right moment.
Line 1 Changing
"需于郊。利用恒,无咎。"
(Xū yú jiāo. Lì yòng héng, wú jiù.)
“Waiting in the outskirts. It is beneficial to be persistent. No fault.”
This line suggests that during the early stages of waiting, one remains on the outskirts, not yet in the center of action. Patience and persistence are key to avoid acting prematurely. By maintaining steadiness, one avoids mistakes and prepares for the proper moment.
Line 2 Changing
"需于沙。小有言,终吉。"
(Xū yú shā. Xiǎo yǒu yán, zhōng jí.)
“Waiting on the sand. There may be some gossip, but in the end, good fortune.”
In this line, the image of waiting on sand represents an uncertain and shifting situation. During this time, there may be criticism or gossip, but these small disturbances will not affect the final outcome. Patience and perseverance will lead to success despite the distractions.
Line 3 Changing
"需于泥,致寇至。"
(Xū yú ní, zhì kòu zhì.)
“Waiting in the mud. This brings about the arrival of enemies.”
Waiting in the mud represents a difficult and precarious situation where progress is hindered. Being in such a vulnerable position can attract opposition or enemies. This line advises caution, as remaining in a weak or compromised position too long may lead to conflict or harm.
Line 5 Changing
"需于酒食,贞吉。"
(Xū yú jiǔ shí, zhēn jí.)
“Waiting while eating and drinking. Perseverance brings good fortune.”
This line indicates a time of calm and comfort during the period of waiting. It suggests that one should enjoy what is available and maintain perseverance. By doing so, good fortune will follow. The key message is to wait patiently, nourish oneself, and stay prepared for the right opportunity.
Line 6 Changing
"入于穴,有不速之客三人来,敬之终吉。"
(Rù yú xué, yǒu bù sù zhī kè sān rén lái, jìng zhī zhōng jí.)
“Entering the pit. Three uninvited guests arrive. Treat them with respect, and in the end, there will be good fortune.”
This final line portrays an unexpected situation (the arrival of three uninvited guests) that may initially seem challenging. However, by treating the unexpected circumstances or individuals with respect and patience, good fortune will result. This line advises composure and open-mindedness when confronted with surprises.
Changing to:
23. Splitting Apart (剝 Bō)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 23
Hexagram 剝 (Bō) symbolizes splitting apart or decay. This hexagram represents a time when things are falling apart or being stripped away. It advises patience and waiting for better times rather than trying to resist the natural cycle of decline.
Hexagram 23 Judgment
"剝,不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Splitting apart. It is not favorable to undertake anything.”
This hexagram warns against taking action during a time of decline or decay. It advises patience and acceptance of the situation. Resistance will not bring success, and it is better to wait for conditions to improve.
Hexagram 23 Image
"山附於地,剝。上以厚下,安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
“The mountain rests on the earth: The image of Splitting Apart. The superior person maintains a firm foundation below and keeps peace in their dwelling.”
The image of a mountain resting on the earth suggests stability, but also decay at the edges. The superior person focuses on maintaining stability and peace within their environment, even as the outer world may be falling apart.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team