I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 54 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 5 to Hexagram 28
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 54.1.3.5 -> 28
54. The Marrying Maiden (歸妹 Guī Mèi)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 54
Hexagram 歸妹 (Guī Mèi) represents the marrying maiden, symbolizing the secondary role and the idea of following established protocols. This hexagram speaks of relationships where one may not have full autonomy, requiring adaptation. Success comes from understanding one's position and accepting supportive roles.
Hexagram 54 Judgment
"歸妹，征凶，无攸利。"
(Guī Mèi, zhēng xiōng, wú yōu lì.)
“The Marrying Maiden. Going forward brings misfortune. Nothing is favorable.”
This hexagram advises caution in advancing into a situation where one lacks full authority or power, as misfortune may follow. It speaks of accepting limitations and adapting to circumstances without overreaching.
Hexagram 54 Image
"澤上有雷，歸妹。君子以永終知敝。"
(Zé shàng yǒu léi, guī mèi. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǒng zhōng zhī bì.)
“Thunder over the lake: The image of The Marrying Maiden. The superior person is careful about endings and recognizes the imperfection of things.”
The image of thunder over the lake symbolizes a situation of imbalance, where one must adapt to changing conditions. The superior person understands that all things are temporary and imperfect, leading to wisdom and balance.
Line 1 Changing
"妹巿，跛能履，征吉。"
(Mèi shì, bǒ néng lǚ, zhēng jí.)
“The maiden is offered in marriage. Though limping, she can walk. Going forward brings good fortune.”
This line speaks of a situation where the initial conditions are not ideal, but progress can still be made. Though there may be limitations (symbolized by limping), with effort, good fortune is achievable.
Line 3 Changing
"歸妹以須，反歸以娣。"
(Guī mèi yǐ xū, fǎn guī yǐ dì.)
“The marrying maiden waits. She returns as a concubine.”
This line describes a situation where one is in a secondary or subordinate role, symbolized by returning as a concubine. It advises patience and acceptance of limitations, as pushing for more may lead to a lesser outcome.
Line 5 Changing
"帝乙歸妹，其君之袂，不如其娣之袂良，月幾望，吉。"
(Dì Yǐ guī mèi, qí jūn zhī mèi, bù rú qí dì zhī mèi liáng, yuè jī wàng, jí.)
“The emperor marries off his daughter. Her sleeves are not as fine as those of the concubine. The moon is almost full. Good fortune.”
This line describes a situation where the outward appearance or position may not seem as prestigious (symbolized by the lesser quality of the maiden’s sleeves), but success is still achievable. It advises focusing on inner qualities and recognizing the gradual approach of good fortune, symbolized by the waxing moon.
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