I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 52 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 38

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 52.1.2.3.4 -> 38

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.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"艮其趾,无咎,利永貞。"
(Gèn qí zhǐ, wú jiù, lì yǒng zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Keeping still at the toes. No blame. Perseverance furthers.”

This line advises remaining still and grounded in the initial stages of a situation. By practicing patience and self-discipline, one avoids mistakes and ensures success.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"艮其腓,不拯其隨,其心不快。"
(Gèn qí féi, bù zhěng qí suí, qí xīn bù kuài.)
English Translation:
“Keeping still at the calves. One cannot rescue those who follow. The heart is not glad.”

This line speaks of frustration in trying to help others or move forward. It advises accepting limitations and remaining patient, even when progress feels slow or blocked.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"艮其限,列其夤,厲薰心。"
(Gèn qí xiàn, liè qí yín, lì xūn xīn.)
English Translation:
“Keeping still at the waist, breaking the spinal column. Dangerous. The heart is suffocated.”

This line warns of becoming too rigid or inflexible, leading to inner distress. It advises remaining calm and flexible, avoiding over-commitment or stubbornness, which can cause harm.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"艮其身,无咎。"
(Gèn qí shēn, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Keeping still in the body. No blame.”

This line describes mastering self-control and inner stillness. By remaining composed and not letting external distractions affect one's actions, there is no blame. It advises calmness and focus.

Changing to:

38. Opposition (睽 Kuí)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☱ Dùi (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 38

Hexagram 睽 (Kuí) represents opposition or divergence. This hexagram speaks of differences between people or situations, where opposing forces or viewpoints lead to tension. Success comes from recognizing and managing these differences.

Hexagram 38 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"睽,小事吉。"
(Kuí, xiǎo shì jí.)
English Translation:
“Opposition. Small matters bring good fortune.”

This hexagram advises focusing on small matters and resolving them carefully during times of opposition. Success comes from managing differences and not letting minor conflicts escalate into major problems.

Hexagram 38 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"上火下澤,睽。君子以同而異。"
(Shàng huǒ xià zé, kuí. Jūn zǐ yǐ tóng ér yì.)
English Translation:
“Fire above, the lake below: The image of Opposition. The superior person seeks unity in diversity.”

The image of fire above and the lake below represents two opposing forces. The superior person seeks to find harmony within these differences, recognizing that unity can be found even in diversity.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team