I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 50 with Changing Lines 2, 4 to Hexagram 52

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 50.2.4 -> 52

Young Yang Young Yin Old Yang Young Yang Old Yang Young Yin

50. The Cauldron

Yang Yin Yin Yang Yin Yin

52. Keeping Still

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"鼎，元吉，亨。"
(Dǐng, yuán jí, hēng.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"木上有火，鼎。君子以正位凝命。"
(Mù shàng yǒu huǒ, dǐng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhèng wèi níng mìng.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"鼎有實，我仇有疾，不我能即，吉。"
(Dǐng yǒu shí, wǒ chóu yǒu jí, bù wǒ néng jí, jí.)
English Translation:
“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 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"鼎折足，覆公餗，其形渥，凶。"
(Dǐng zhé zú, fù gōng sù, qí xíng wò, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“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.

Changing to:

52. Keeping Still (艮 Gèn)

Trigrams

Above
☶ Gèn (Mountain)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 52

Hexagram 艮 (Gèn) represents stillness and stability, like a mountain. This hexagram speaks of the importance of remaining calm and centered, even in the face of external pressures. Success comes from mastering self-control and inner peace.

Hexagram 52 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"艮其背，不獲其身，行其庭，不見其人，无咎。"
(Gèn qí bèi, bù huò qí shēn, xíng qí tíng, bù jiàn qí rén, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Keeping still, restraining the back. One does not grasp oneself. Walking in the courtyard, one does not see others. No blame.”

This hexagram advises remaining calm and centered, restraining impulses and external distractions. By focusing on inner stillness, one avoids mistakes and remains clear-minded. Success comes from self-discipline and tranquility.

Hexagram 52 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"兼山，艮。君子以思不出其位。"
(Jiān shān, gèn. Jūn zǐ yǐ sī bù chū qí wèi.)
English Translation:
“Mountains standing still: The image of Keeping Still. The superior person does not allow their thoughts to go beyond their place.”

The image of mountains standing still symbolizes the importance of maintaining stability and not overreaching. The superior person remains grounded, controlling their thoughts and emotions, leading to success.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team