I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 52 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 6 to Hexagram 24

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 52.1.3.6 -> 24

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 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 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"敦艮,吉。"
(Dūn gèn, jí.)
English Translation:
“Generous stillness. Good fortune.”

This line describes the highest form of stillness, where one is not only calm and composed but also generous and open-hearted. Good fortune comes from this balance of inner peace and outward generosity.

Changing to:

24. Return (復 Fù)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 24

Hexagram 復 (Fù) symbolizes a return to balance, renewal, and the beginning of a new cycle. This hexagram represents a time of renewal after a period of decline. It is a time for returning to one's roots and starting fresh.

Hexagram 24 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"復,亨,出入无疾,朋來无咎。反復其道,七日來復,利有攸往。"
(Fù, hēng, chū rù wú jí, péng lái wú jiù. Fǎn fù qí dào, qī rì lái fù, lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“Return. Success. Going out and coming in without harm. Friends come without blame. On the seventh day, return. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.”

This hexagram speaks of a return to normalcy after a difficult period. It advises patience, as renewal will come naturally, like the turning of a cycle. The seventh day symbolizes completion and renewal. It is a favorable time to move forward.

Hexagram 24 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷在地中,復。先王以至日閉關,商旅不行,后不省方。"
(Léi zài dì zhōng, fù. Xiān wáng yǐ zhì rì bì guān, shāng lǚ bù xíng, hòu bù xǐng fāng.)
English Translation:
“Thunder within the earth: The image of Return. The ancient kings closed the passes at the solstice. Merchants and travelers did not move, and the ruler did not travel to the regions.”

The image of thunder within the earth suggests a time of quiet preparation for renewal. The superior person uses this time for reflection and planning, waiting for the right moment to act. It is a time of rest before moving forward.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team