I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 52 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 28
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 52.2.4.5.6 -> 28
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
"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.)
“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
"兼山，艮。君子以思不出其位。"
(Jiān shān, gèn. Jūn zǐ yǐ sī bù chū qí wèi.)
“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
"艮其腓，不拯其隨，其心不快。"
(Gèn qí féi, bù zhěng qí suí, qí xīn bù kuài.)
“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 4 Changing
"艮其身，无咎。"
(Gèn qí shēn, wú jiù.)
“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.
Line 5 Changing
"艮其輔，言有序，悔亡。"
(Gèn qí fǔ, yán yǒu xù, huǐ wáng.)
“Keeping still at the jaw. Words are orderly. Regret disappears.”
This line speaks of controlling speech and thoughts, ensuring that communication is clear and measured. By being thoughtful and disciplined in words, regret disappears. Success comes from clarity and careful expression.
Line 6 Changing
"敦艮，吉。"
(Dūn gèn, jí.)
“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:
28. Preponderance of the Great (大過 Dà Guò)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dui (Lake)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 28
Hexagram 大過 (Dà Guò) represents a time when things have gone beyond their normal limits, requiring extraordinary measures. This hexagram speaks of a time when great strength or effort is needed to deal with overwhelming circumstances.
Hexagram 28 Judgment
"大過，棟橈，利有攸往，亨。"
(Dà guò, dòng náo, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, hēng.)
“Preponderance of the Great. The ridgepole sags. It is favorable to undertake something. Success.”
This hexagram speaks of a situation where the weight of circumstances is too great, symbolized by the sagging ridgepole. Extraordinary efforts are required, and success comes through careful and deliberate action. It is a time for great strength.
Hexagram 28 Image
"澤滅木，大過。君子以獨立不懼，遯世无悶。"
(Zé miè mù, dà guò. Jūn zǐ yǐ dú lì bù jù, dùn shì wú mèn.)
“The lake rises above the trees: The image of Preponderance of the Great. The superior person stands alone without fear and withdraws from the world without regret.”
The image of a lake rising above the trees suggests an overwhelming situation. The superior person stands firm and does not fear the challenge. Sometimes, retreat and quiet reflection are necessary to cope with overwhelming circumstances.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team