I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 52 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 64

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 52.2.3.4 -> 64

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

52. Keeping Still

Yang Yin Yang Yin Yang Yin

64. Before Completion

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 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:

64. Before Completion (未濟 Wèi Jì)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☵ Kǎn (Water)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 64

Hexagram 未濟 (Wèi Jì) represents the state before completion, symbolizing a time when a task or project is nearly complete but not yet finished. This hexagram speaks of the importance of staying focused and patient as the final steps are taken. Success comes from careful attention and avoiding premature action.

Hexagram 64 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"未濟，亨。小狐汔濟，濡其尾，无攸利。"
(Wèi jì, hēng. Xiǎo hú qì jì, rú qí wěi, wú yōu lì.)
English Translation:
“Before Completion. Success. The small fox nearly crosses the river but gets its tail wet. Nothing is favorable.”

This hexagram advises caution and patience as one nears the completion of a task. Like the small fox crossing the river, a lack of care in the final stages can lead to setbacks. It warns against premature action and advises paying close attention to detail.

Hexagram 64 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"火在水上，未濟。君子以慎辨物居方。"
(Huǒ zài shuǐ shàng, wèi jì. Jūn zǐ yǐ shèn biàn wù jū fāng.)
English Translation:
“Fire over water: The image of Before Completion. The superior person carefully distinguishes things and places them in their proper position.”

The image of fire over water represents the tension between opposing forces and the need for balance. The superior person, like the elements, carefully considers all factors and makes thoughtful decisions to ensure success.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team