I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 50 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 8
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 50.2.3.4.5.6 -> 8
50. The Cauldron (鼎 Dǐng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 50
Hexagram 鼎 (Dǐng) represents a cauldron, symbolizing nourishment and transformation. This hexagram speaks of a time when one’s resources and abilities are being refined and used to nourish and support others. Success comes from utilizing what is in the cauldron and making something valuable.
Hexagram 50 Judgment
"鼎,元吉,亨。"
(Dǐng, yuán jí, hēng.)
“The Cauldron. Great good fortune. Success.”
This hexagram advises a time of great transformation and nourishment. Like a cauldron cooking food, one’s resources and abilities are being refined to create something valuable. Success comes from sharing this nourishment with others.
Hexagram 50 Image
"木上有火,鼎。君子以正位凝命。"
(Mù shàng yǒu huǒ, dǐng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhèng wèi níng mìng.)
“Fire over wood: The image of The Cauldron. The superior person makes their position correct and consolidates their destiny.”
The image of fire over wood represents the process of cooking and transforming raw ingredients into something nourishing. The superior person, like the cauldron, uses their resources and position to create something lasting and valuable.
Line 2 Changing
"鼎有實,我仇有疾,不我能即,吉。"
(Dǐng yǒu shí, wǒ chóu yǒu jí, bù wǒ néng jí, jí.)
“The cauldron is full. My enemy is sick, but they cannot approach me. Good fortune.”
This line describes a cauldron full of nourishing resources. Although an enemy may be present, they are unable to harm you. The situation is secure, and good fortune follows.
Line 3 Changing
"鼎耳革,其行塞,雉膏不食,方雨虧悔,終吉。"
(Dǐng ěr gé, qí xíng sè, zhì gāo bù shí, fāng yǔ kuī huǐ, zhōng jí.)
“The cauldron’s handles are changed. Movement is blocked. The pheasant fat is not eaten. When the rain comes, regret disappears. In the end, good fortune.”
This line speaks of a temporary blockage, symbolized by the cauldron’s handles being changed and movement being halted. Although there is delay (the pheasant fat is not eaten), when the rain comes (symbolizing relief), regret disappears and good fortune follows.
Line 4 Changing
"鼎折足,覆公餗,其形渥,凶。"
(Dǐng zhé zú, fù gōng sù, qí xíng wò, xiōng.)
“The cauldron’s legs are broken. The food for the prince is spilled. The form is covered with blood. Misfortune.”
This line describes a serious setback, where the cauldron is broken and the valuable contents are lost. Misfortune follows, and it advises caution and care in managing resources to avoid disaster.
Line 5 Changing
"鼎黃耳金鉉,利貞。"
(Dǐng huáng ěr jīn xuàn, lì zhēn.)
“The cauldron has yellow ears and golden handles. Perseverance furthers.”
This line speaks of a cauldron in excellent condition, with golden handles symbolizing strength and stability. It advises perseverance and continued effort, as the situation is stable and success is assured.
Line 6 Changing
"鼎玉鉉,大吉,无不利。"
(Dǐng yù xuàn, dà jí, wú bù lì.)
“The cauldron has jade handles. Great good fortune. Nothing is unfavorable.”
This line describes a cauldron with jade handles, symbolizing great beauty and value. The situation is ideal, and great good fortune follows. Everything is favorable, and success is assured.
Changing to:
8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 8
Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.
Hexagram 8 Judgment
"比,吉。原筮,元永贞,无咎。不宁方来,后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”
This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.
Hexagram 8 Image
"水上有地,比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”
The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team