I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 5 with Changing Lines 3, 6 to Hexagram 61

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 5.3.6 -> 61

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚,光亨,贞吉。利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, guāng hēng, zhēn jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"云上于天,需。君子以饮食宴乐。"
(Yún shàng yú tiān, xū. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǐn shí yàn lè.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"需于泥,致寇至。"
(Xū yú ní, zhì kòu zhì.)
English Translation:
“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 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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:

61. Inner Truth (中孚 Zhōng Fú)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☱ Duì (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 61

Hexagram 中孚 (Zhōng Fú) represents inner truth, symbolizing sincerity, faithfulness, and trust. This hexagram speaks of the importance of being true to oneself and others. Success comes from acting with sincerity and building trust in relationships.

Hexagram 61 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"中孚,豚魚吉,利涉大川,利貞。"
(Zhōng fú, tún yú jí, lì shè dà chuān, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Inner Truth. Pigs and fish. Good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great river. Perseverance furthers.”

This hexagram advises acting with sincerity and faithfulness. Success comes from being true to oneself and building trust. It is also favorable to take on significant challenges, symbolized by crossing the great river.

Hexagram 61 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風行澤中,中孚。君子以議獄緩死。"
(Fēng xíng zé zhōng, zhōng fú. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì yù huǎn sǐ.)
English Translation:
“Wind moves over the lake: The image of Inner Truth. The superior person discusses legal cases to delay executions.”

The image of wind moving over the lake represents the power of gentle influence and trust. The superior person, like the wind, uses their influence to ensure fairness and mercy, especially in difficult situations.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team