I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 52 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 16
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 52.3.4.6 -> 16
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 3 Changing
"艮其限，列其夤，厲薰心。"
(Gèn qí xiàn, liè qí yín, lì xūn xīn.)
“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
"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 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:
16. Enthusiasm (豫 Yù)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 16
Hexagram 豫 (Yù) represents enthusiasm, excitement, and a sense of shared purpose. This hexagram speaks of a time when energy and joy fuel collective actions. Enthusiasm drives forward progress and creates harmony among people.
Hexagram 16 Judgment
"豫，利建侯行师。"
(Yù, lì jiàn hóu xíng shī.)
“Enthusiasm. It is beneficial to appoint helpers and set armies marching.”
This hexagram signifies a time when enthusiasm drives collective action. It is a good time to delegate tasks to others, appoint capable helpers, and move forward with large plans. Progress is made with shared energy and excitement.
Hexagram 16 Image
"雷出地奋，豫。先王以作乐崇德，殷荐之上帝，以配祖考。"
(Léi chū dì fèn, yù. Xiān wáng yǐ zuò yuè chóng dé, yīn jiàn zhī shàng dì, yǐ pèi zǔ kǎo.)
“Thunder comes bursting out of the earth: The image of Enthusiasm. The ancient kings made music and offered it in honor of virtue. They worshiped with reverence at the temple of their ancestors.”
The image of thunder erupting from the earth represents the energy and power of enthusiasm. The ancient kings used this energy to create harmony through music and honor their ancestors. In modern terms, this means using the joy of collective effort to build on past virtues and create a better future.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team