I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 58 with Changing Lines 2, 4 to Hexagram 3

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 58.2.4 -> 3

58. The Joyous (兌 Duì)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Duì (Lake)
Below
☱ Duì (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 58

Hexagram 兌 (Duì) represents the joyous, cheerful influence of the lake. This hexagram speaks of communication, happiness, and mutual support. Success comes from creating a joyful, open atmosphere where people feel free to express themselves.

Hexagram 58 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"兌,亨,利貞。"
(Duì, hēng, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The Joyous. Success. Perseverance furthers.”

This hexagram advises fostering a joyful and open environment, where success comes from mutual support and clear communication. Perseverance in creating this atmosphere leads to long-term success.

Hexagram 58 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"麗澤,兌。君子以朋友講習。"
(Lì zé, duì. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
English Translation:
“Lakes resting on one another: The image of The Joyous. The superior person joins with friends for discussion and practice.”

The image of two lakes represents a supportive and harmonious relationship, where mutual joy flows freely. The superior person, like the lake, engages in meaningful discussions with friends, fostering mutual growth and understanding.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"孚兌,吉,悔亡。"
(Fú duì, jí, huǐ wáng.)
English Translation:
“Sincere joy. Good fortune. Regret disappears.”

This line describes the power of sincere joy, where genuine communication and support lead to good fortune. Any previous misunderstandings or regrets are overcome through openness and sincerity.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"九四:商兌未寧,介疾有喜。"
(Shāng duì wèi níng, jiè jí yǒu xǐ.)
English Translation:
“Negotiating joy brings no peace. Mediation brings happiness.”

This line describes a situation where attempts to negotiate happiness are not immediately successful. However, by mediating differences and finding common ground, joy can be achieved. It advises patience and persistence in creating harmony.

Changing to:

3. Difficulty at the Beginning (屯 Zhūn)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 3

Hexagram 屯 (Zhūn) symbolizes difficulty and confusion at the beginning of a new venture. It represents the struggles encountered at the outset of creation or development. Like sprouting seeds pushing through the soil, progress is slow, uncertain, and requires persistence. Zhūn encourages perseverance in the face of obstacles and advises careful planning and patience in the early stages. This hexagram illustrates that chaos often precedes order, and that new beginnings, though difficult, are full of potential once obstacles are overcome.

Hexagram 3 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨,利贞,勿用有攸往,利建侯。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng, lì jiàn hóu.)
English Translation:
“Sublime success. Perseverance furthers. Do not act in haste; it is favorable to establish lords.”

The judgment emphasizes that despite the initial difficulties, success is possible through perseverance. Acting hastily or impulsively is discouraged. The mention of establishing lords represents the need for careful organization, strategic planning, and forming alliances. It suggests the importance of solid foundations before advancing, as well as surrounding oneself with trusted individuals or a supportive network in times of hardship.

Hexagram 3 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"云雷,屯。君子以经纶。"
(Yún léi, zhūn. Jūn zǐ yǐ jīng lún.)
English Translation:
“Clouds and thunder: Difficulty at the beginning. The superior man brings order out of confusion.”

The image of clouds and thunder signifies the chaotic and tumultuous energy of the early stages of development. Clouds gather but do not yet produce rain, while thunder rumbles without lightning—a metaphor for potential that has not yet materialized. The superior man acts with wisdom and foresight, organizing and directing these chaotic forces toward a structured outcome. The lesson here is to remain patient and focused, trusting that with deliberate action, chaos can be transformed into order.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team