I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 52 with Changing Lines 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 8
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 52.3.5.6 -> 8
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 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:
8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 8
Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.
Hexagram 8 Judgment
"比，吉。原筮，元永贞，无咎。不宁方来，后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”
This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.
Hexagram 8 Image
"水上有地，比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”
The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team