I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 54 with Changing Lines 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 61
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 54.4.5.6 -> 61
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 4 Changing
"歸妹愆期，遲歸有時。"
(Guī mèi qiān qī, chí guī yǒu shí.)
“The marrying maiden is late. She returns in due time.”
This line speaks of delays in progress, but eventual success. Although things may not happen as quickly as desired, with patience, everything will come to fruition at the right time.
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.
Line 6 Changing
"女承筐无實，士刲羊无血，无攸利。"
(Nǚ chéng kuāng wú shí, shì kuī yáng wú xuè, wú yōu lì.)
“The woman carries an empty basket. The man sacrifices a sheep without blood. Nothing is favorable.”
This line describes a situation where efforts or actions are empty and lack substance. It advises avoiding superficial or meaningless actions, as nothing beneficial comes from them.
Changing to:
61. Inner Truth (中孚 Zhōng Fú)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☱ Duì (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 61
Hexagram 中孚 (Zhōng Fú) represents inner truth, symbolizing sincerity, faithfulness, and trust. This hexagram speaks of the importance of being true to oneself and others. Success comes from acting with sincerity and building trust in relationships.
Hexagram 61 Judgment
"中孚，豚魚吉，利涉大川，利貞。"
(Zhōng fú, tún yú jí, lì shè dà chuān, lì zhēn.)
“Inner Truth. Pigs and fish. Good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great river. Perseverance furthers.”
This hexagram advises acting with sincerity and faithfulness. Success comes from being true to oneself and building trust. It is also favorable to take on significant challenges, symbolized by crossing the great river.
Hexagram 61 Image
"風行澤中，中孚。君子以議獄緩死。"
(Fēng xíng zé zhōng, zhōng fú. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì yù huǎn sǐ.)
“Wind moves over the lake: The image of Inner Truth. The superior person discusses legal cases to delay executions.”
The image of wind moving over the lake represents the power of gentle influence and trust. The superior person, like the wind, uses their influence to ensure fairness and mercy, especially in difficult situations.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team