I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 56 with Changing Lines 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 39
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 56.4.5.6 -> 39
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 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.
Line 6 Changing
"鳥焚其巢，旅人先笑後號咷，喪牛于易，凶。"
(Niǎo fén qí cháo, lǚ rén xiān xiào hòu háo táo, sàng niú yú yì, xiōng.)
“The bird burns its nest. The wanderer laughs first, then cries out in grief. The ox is lost at the border. Misfortune.”
This line speaks of a situation where one’s temporary success is destroyed, symbolized by the burned nest. The wanderer’s initial joy turns to grief as they realize their loss. It advises avoiding reckless actions and recognizing the fragility of the situation.
Changing to:
39. Obstruction (蹇 Jiǎn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 39
Hexagram 蹇 (Jiǎn) symbolizes obstacles or obstructions. This hexagram speaks of difficulties or impediments on one's path. Success comes from patience, perseverance, and knowing when to retreat and when to push forward.
Hexagram 39 Judgment
"蹇，利西南，不利東北。利見大人，貞吉。"
(Jiǎn, lì xī nán, bù lì dōng běi. Lì jiàn dà rén, zhēn jí.)
“Obstruction. It is favorable to go southwest, not favorable to go northeast. It is beneficial to see the great person. Perseverance brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises adjusting one's direction when facing obstacles. Success comes from going with the flow (symbolized by the southwest) rather than forcing one's way forward. Meeting with a wise person and persevering brings good fortune.
Hexagram 39 Image
"山上有水，蹇。君子以反身修德。"
(Shān shàng yǒu shuǐ, jiǎn. Jūn zǐ yǐ fǎn shēn xiū dé.)
“Water on the mountain: The image of Obstruction. The superior person turns inward and cultivates virtue.”
The image of water on a mountain represents difficulties or obstacles that prevent easy progress. The superior person uses this time to turn inward, cultivating inner strength and virtue while waiting for the right time to act.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team