I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 5 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 10
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 5.3.4.6 -> 10
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 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 4 Changing
"需于血,出自穴。"
(Xū yú xuè, chū zì xué.)
“Waiting in blood. Get out of the pit.”
This line symbolizes a situation of extreme danger or difficulty (blood). The advice here is to take action to extricate oneself from this perilous position rather than continue waiting passively. Escaping from the 'pit' represents the need for proactive measures when circumstances become too dangerous.
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:
10. Treading (履 Lǚ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☱ Dui (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 10
Hexagram 履 (Lǚ) represents careful treading or walking. It emphasizes caution in behavior and the need for sensitivity to the conditions around you. Success comes from walking the line between boldness and discretion.
Hexagram 10 Judgment
"履虎尾,不咥人,亨。"
(Lǚ hǔ wěi, bù dié rén, hēng.)
“Treading on the tail of the tiger. It does not bite the man. Success.”
This hexagram speaks of treading in a dangerous situation, like walking on a tiger's tail. However, if one proceeds cautiously and with respect, no harm will come, and success can be achieved.
Hexagram 10 Image
"上天下泽,履。君子以辨上下,定民志。"
(Shàng tiān xià zé, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ biàn shàng xià, dìng mín zhì.)
“Heaven above, the lake below: The image of Treading. The superior person discriminates between high and low, and strengthens the people’s resolve.”
The image of heaven above and the lake below suggests a balance between different forces. The superior person walks carefully, recognizing the hierarchy of forces and ensuring that the people’s resolve is firm. It is about maintaining balance and discernment.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team