I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 6 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 4 to Hexagram 9

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 6.1.3.4 -> 9

Young Yang Young Yang Old Yang Old Yin Young Yang Old Yin

6. Conflict

Yang Yang Yin Yang Yang Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

6. Conflict (訟 Sòng)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☵ Kǎn (Water)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 6

Hexagram Sòng (Conflict) represents a time of dispute or disagreement. This hexagram signals a moment when conflicts must be addressed. The key to resolution lies in upholding righteousness and avoiding impulsive reactions driven by anger or emotion.

Hexagram 6 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚，窒惕，中吉，终凶。利见大人，不利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, zhì tì, zhōng jí, zhōng xiōng. Lì jiàn dà rén, bù lì shè dà chuān.)
English Translation:
“Conflict demands sincerity. Be cautious and halt before it escalates. There is success in the middle, but disaster awaits at the end. It is beneficial to consult a wise person, but unfavorable to undertake major ventures, like crossing a great river.”

Conflict is best managed through sincerity and careful restraint. Success comes from resolving disputes in the middle stage, before they intensify. While there may be some early success, prolonged conflict leads to harm. Seeking advice from a wise figure is beneficial, but engaging in large-scale endeavors (crossing a great river) is unwise during this time.

Hexagram 6 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天与水违行，訟。君子以作事谋始。"
(Tiān yǔ shuǐ wéi xíng, sòng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zuò shì móu shǐ.)
English Translation:
“Heaven and water move in opposite directions—this is the image of Conflict. The wise person uses this time to plan carefully at the outset of any endeavor.”

Heaven and water moving apart symbolize discord and opposition. The wise person uses this time to strategize and avoid rushing into any new ventures, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning in navigating conflict.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"不永所事，小有言，终吉。"
(Bù yǒng suǒ shì, xiǎo yǒu yán, zhōng jí.)
English Translation:
“Do not keep pushing your case. There may be a minor argument, but it will ultimately end well.”

This line advises against prolonging conflict. Small disputes may occur, but it is wise not to press them. Letting go leads to a favorable resolution.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"食旧德，贞厉，终吉。或从王事，无成。"
(Shí jiù dé, zhēn lì, zhōng jí. Huò cóng wáng shì, wú chéng.)
English Translation:
“Relying on past achievements. Perseverance invites danger, but it will ultimately end well. Serving the king brings no reward.”

This line warns against relying solely on past accomplishments. While persistence may lead to challenges, staying true to your principles will bring a positive outcome. However, official duties or serving higher powers may not bring any tangible results at this time.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"或訟之，几，终凶。"
(Huò sòng zhī, jī, zhōng xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Conflict is brought against you. You may approach cautiously, but it will ultimately lead to misfortune.”

Conflict initiated by others is difficult to avoid, even with caution. Without proper resolution, it is likely to end poorly.

Changing to:

9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 9

Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.

Hexagram 9 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
English Translation:
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”

This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.

Hexagram 9 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”

The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team