I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 50 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 5 to Hexagram 12
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 50.2.3.5 -> 12
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 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.
Changing to:
12. Standstill (否 Pǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 12
Hexagram 否 (Pǐ) symbolizes standstill or stagnation. This hexagram represents a time when progress halts, and opposing forces prevent movement forward. It advises patience and waiting for more favorable conditions.
Hexagram 12 Judgment
"否之匪人，不利君子贞，大往小来。"
(Pǐ zhī fěi rén, bù lì jūn zǐ zhēn, dà wǎng xiǎo lái.)
“Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior person. The great departs; the small approaches.”
In times of standstill, negative forces dominate, making it difficult for the superior person to act. The good or great things seem to recede, while small, petty concerns take their place. This hexagram advises patience and restraint until the situation improves.
Hexagram 12 Image
"天地不交，否。君子以俭德辟难，不可荣以禄。"
(Tiān dì bù jiāo, pǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiǎn dé pì nàn, bù kě róng yǐ lù.)
“Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. The superior person uses modesty to avoid difficulties. He does not boast of riches or honors.”
The image of heaven and earth not interacting symbolizes a breakdown in harmony, leading to stagnation. The superior person recognizes that in such times, it is better to remain modest, avoid drawing attention, and wait for a more favorable situation.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team