I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 51 with Changing Lines 1, 4 to Hexagram 2
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 51.1.4 -> 2
51. The Arousing (震 Zhèn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 51
Hexagram 震 (Zhèn) represents the arousing power of thunder. This hexagram speaks of sudden shocks or disturbances that cause fear but also inspire movement and change. Success comes from responding to challenges with clarity and decisive action.
Hexagram 51 Judgment
"震，亨。震來虩虩，笑言啞啞。震驚百里，不喪匕鬯。"
(Zhèn, hēng. Zhèn lái xì xì, xiào yán yǎ yǎ. Zhèn jīng bǎi lǐ, bù sàng bǐ chàng.)
“The Arousing. Success. Thunder comes with a terrifying roar. Laughter and conversation follow. The shock spreads over a hundred miles, but the sacrificial vessels are not spilled.”
This hexagram advises staying calm and composed in the face of sudden challenges or shocks. While the initial disturbance may cause fear, success comes from remaining centered and not letting the shock disrupt important matters.
Hexagram 51 Image
"洊雷，震。君子以恐懼修省。"
(Jiàn léi, zhèn. Jūn zǐ yǐ kǒng jù xiū xǐng.)
“Thunder repeated: The image of The Arousing. The superior person examines themselves with fear and caution.”
The image of repeated thunder symbolizes the need to stay alert and cautious. The superior person, like thunder, remains aware of potential dangers and uses self-examination to avoid mistakes. Caution leads to success.
Line 1 Changing
"震來虩虩，後笑言啞啞，吉。"
(Zhèn lái xì xì, hòu xiào yán yǎ yǎ, jí.)
“Thunder comes with a terrifying roar. Later, laughter and conversation. Good fortune.”
This line describes a situation where a sudden shock causes fear, but once the danger has passed, people relax and laugh. It advises remaining calm and composed during disturbances, as good fortune follows.
Line 4 Changing
"震遂泥。"
(Zhèn suì ní.)
“Thunder terrifies, but then it comes to rest in the mud.”
This line speaks of a situation where fear is initially overwhelming, but the danger soon passes and things settle. It advises remaining calm, as the disturbance is temporary and will resolve without lasting harm.
Changing to:
2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 2
Hexagram 坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.
Hexagram 2 Judgment
"元亨，利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
“The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.”
The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.
Hexagram 2 Image
"地势坤，君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
“The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world.”
The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team