I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 57 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 12
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 57.2.3.4 -> 12
57. The Gentle (巽 Xùn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 57
Hexagram 巽 (Xùn) represents the gentle, penetrating influence of wind. This hexagram speaks of subtlety and gradual progress. Success comes from gentle persistence, allowing time for small influences to create great changes.
Hexagram 57 Judgment
"巽，小亨，利有攸往，利見大人。"
(Xùn, xiǎo hēng, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, lì jiàn dàrén.)
“The Gentle. Small success. It is favorable to have somewhere to go. It is favorable to see the great person.”
This hexagram advises taking small, gradual steps toward progress. Like the wind, influence is subtle but consistent. Success comes from moving forward carefully and seeking wise counsel when needed.
Hexagram 57 Image
"隨風，巽。君子以申命行事。"
(Suí fēng, xùn. Jūn zǐ yǐ shēn mìng xíng shì.)
“Wind following wind: The image of The Gentle. The superior person uses clear orders and acts with authority.”
The image of wind following wind represents a situation where influence builds gradually, reinforcing itself over time. The superior person, like the wind, acts with gentle authority and clear guidance, ensuring progress through consistency.
Line 2 Changing
"巽在床下，用史巫紛若，吉，无咎。"
(Xùn zài chuáng xià, yòng shǐ wū fēn ruò, jí, wú jiù.)
“The gentle influence is under the bed. Using divination brings clarity. Good fortune. No blame.”
This line describes subtle influence or hidden forces at work, symbolized by the gentle influence under the bed. By seeking clarity through divination or wise counsel, good fortune follows, and there is no blame for careful actions.
Line 3 Changing
"頻巽，吝。"
(Pín xùn, lìn.)
“Repeated gentleness brings regret.”
This line warns that being overly gentle or yielding can lead to regret. While gentleness is valuable, it must be balanced with firmness. It advises avoiding excessive accommodation, as this may result in missed opportunities or weakness.
Line 4 Changing
"悔亡，田獲三品。"
(Huǐ wáng, tián huò sān pǐn.)
“Regret disappears. Hunting brings three kinds of game.”
This line describes a situation where previous mistakes or regrets are overcome. By taking action and moving forward, success follows, symbolized by the bounty from the hunt. It advises persistence and adaptability.
Changing to:
12. Standstill (否 Pǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 12
Hexagram 否 (Pǐ) symbolizes standstill or stagnation. This hexagram represents a time when progress halts, and opposing forces prevent movement forward. It advises patience and waiting for more favorable conditions.
Hexagram 12 Judgment
"否之匪人，不利君子贞，大往小来。"
(Pǐ zhī fěi rén, bù lì jūn zǐ zhēn, dà wǎng xiǎo lái.)
“Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior person. The great departs; the small approaches.”
In times of standstill, negative forces dominate, making it difficult for the superior person to act. The good or great things seem to recede, while small, petty concerns take their place. This hexagram advises patience and restraint until the situation improves.
Hexagram 12 Image
"天地不交，否。君子以俭德辟难，不可荣以禄。"
(Tiān dì bù jiāo, pǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiǎn dé pì nàn, bù kě róng yǐ lù.)
“Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. The superior person uses modesty to avoid difficulties. He does not boast of riches or honors.”
The image of heaven and earth not interacting symbolizes a breakdown in harmony, leading to stagnation. The superior person recognizes that in such times, it is better to remain modest, avoid drawing attention, and wait for a more favorable situation.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team