I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 56 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 20
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 56.3.4.5 -> 20
56. The Wanderer (旅 Lǚ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 56
Hexagram 旅 (Lǚ) represents the wanderer, one who travels and is not rooted in a single place. This hexagram speaks of a time when one must adapt to unfamiliar circumstances, relying on resourcefulness and resilience. Success comes from knowing when to move on and how to navigate changing environments.
Hexagram 56 Judgment
"旅，小亨，旅貞吉。"
(Lǚ, xiǎo hēng, lǚ zhēn jí.)
“The Wanderer. Small success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the wanderer.”
This hexagram advises that while traveling or navigating unfamiliar situations, success comes from perseverance and adaptability. Although the progress may be small, by remaining flexible and resourceful, good fortune follows.
Hexagram 56 Image
"山上有火，旅。君子以明慎用刑，而不留狱。"
(Shān shàng yǒu huǒ, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ míng shèn yòng xíng, ér bù liú yù.)
“Fire on the mountain: The image of The Wanderer. The superior person is clear-minded and careful in the use of punishment, avoiding holding prisoners for long.”
The image of fire on the mountain represents a time of transience and impermanence. The superior person, like the wanderer, remains clear-minded and cautious, taking decisive action but not becoming too attached to any single place or situation.
Line 3 Changing
"旅焚其次，喪其童僕，貞厲。"
(Lǚ fén qí cì, sàng qí tóng pú, zhēn lì.)
“The wanderer’s lodging burns down. Their servant is lost. Perseverance brings danger.”
This line describes a situation where the wanderer’s temporary lodging is destroyed, and their support is lost. It advises caution, as continuing in the same way leads to further danger. It may be time to change course or re-evaluate the situation.
Line 4 Changing
"旅于處，得其資斧，我心不快。"
(Lǚ yú chù, dé qí zī fǔ, wǒ xīn bù kuài.)
“The wanderer rests in their place and obtains tools. Yet, the heart is not content.”
This line speaks of a wanderer who finds temporary success or security, symbolized by obtaining tools. However, despite these gains, they feel unsettled or discontent. It advises recognizing that material success may not bring true satisfaction.
Line 5 Changing
"射雉，一矢亡，終以譽命。"
(Shè zhì, yī shǐ wáng, zhōng yǐ yù mìng.)
“Shooting a pheasant. The first arrow misses, but in the end, praise is received.”
This line describes initial failure, but eventual success. Although the first attempt may not succeed (symbolized by the missed arrow), perseverance leads to praise and recognition. It advises not giving up after early setbacks.
Changing to:
20. Contemplation (觀 Guān)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 20
Hexagram 觀 (Guān) symbolizes contemplation and observation. This hexagram represents a time to pause and reflect, gaining insight through careful observation rather than immediate action.
Hexagram 20 Judgment
"觀，盥而不薦，有孚顒若。"
(Guān, guàn ér bù jiàn, yǒu fú yǒng ruò.)
“Contemplation. Washing the hands, but not making an offering. With sincerity and awareness, clarity comes.”
This hexagram speaks of taking time to reflect before making decisions or taking action. By cultivating sincerity and careful observation, clarity and insight are gained. It advises patience and deep contemplation.
Hexagram 20 Image
"風行地上，觀。先王以省方，觀民設教。"
(Fēng xíng dì shàng, guān. Xiān wáng yǐ xǐng fāng, guān mín shè jiào.)
“The wind blows over the earth: The image of Contemplation. The ancient kings made tours of inspection to observe the people and teach them.”
The wind blowing over the earth symbolizes the power of observation. The superior person uses this time to observe, learn, and understand, much like the ancient kings who traveled to see the state of their people and teach them accordingly.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team