I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 60 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 31

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 60.1.2.3.4 -> 31

60. Limitation (節 Jié)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☱ Dùi (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 60

Hexagram 節 (Jié) represents limitation or regulation, symbolizing the importance of setting boundaries and knowing one's limits. This hexagram speaks of the value of restraint and self-discipline. Success comes from moderation and controlling one's desires.

Hexagram 60 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"節,亨。苦節,不可貞。"
(Jié, hēng. Kǔ jié, bù kě zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Limitation. Success. Bitter limitation cannot be persevered in.”

This hexagram advises setting appropriate limits and exercising restraint, but warns against harsh or overly restrictive limitations. Success comes from moderation and flexibility, not from excessive control.

Hexagram 60 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤上有水,節。君子以制數度,議德行。"
(Zé shàng yǒu shuǐ, jié. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhì shù dù, yì dé xíng.)
English Translation:
“Water over the lake: The image of Limitation. The superior person establishes measures and limits and discusses virtue and conduct.”

The image of water over the lake represents the need to contain and regulate resources. The superior person, like the lake, sets clear boundaries and guidelines, ensuring that everything is kept in balance. Success comes from clear regulations and virtuous conduct.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"不出戶庭,无咎。"
(Bù chū hù tíng, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Not going out of the gate and courtyard. No blame.”

This line advises staying within established boundaries and not overstepping one's limits. By exercising restraint and self-discipline, one avoids mistakes or misfortune.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"不出門庭,凶。"
(Bù chū mén tíng, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Not going out of the gate and courtyard. Misfortune.”

This line warns of being overly restrictive or withdrawn, leading to missed opportunities or stagnation. It advises finding a balance between limitation and action to avoid misfortune.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"不節若,則嗟若,無咎。"
(Bù jié ruò, zé jiē ruò, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“If one is not limiting oneself, then one laments. No blame.”

This line describes a situation where lack of self-control leads to regret or difficulties. By recognizing the need for limits and acting accordingly, one avoids blame or further issues.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"安節,亨。"
(Ān jié, hēng.)
English Translation:
“Content with limitation. Success.”

This line speaks of finding peace and contentment within one's limits. By accepting and working within established boundaries, success follows. It advises embracing moderation and balance.

Changing to:

31. Influence (Wooing) (咸 Xián)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Dui (Lake)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 31

Hexagram 咸 (Xián) symbolizes influence, attraction, and the power of mutual response. This hexagram speaks of relationships, attraction, and how one person or force influences another. Success comes from subtle influence rather than force.

Hexagram 31 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"咸,亨,利貞。取女吉。"
(Xián, hēng, lì zhēn. Qǔ nǚ jí.)
English Translation:
“Influence. Success. Perseverance furthers. Taking a wife brings good fortune.”

This hexagram advises subtle influence and mutual attraction. Success comes from steady, gentle influence, not force. In relationships, like marriage, mutual respect and attraction bring good fortune.

Hexagram 31 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"山上有澤,咸。君子以虛受人。"
(Shān shàng yǒu zé, xián. Jūn zǐ yǐ xū shòu rén.)
English Translation:
“Lake on the mountain: The image of Influence. The superior person is open to receiving others.”

The image of the lake on the mountain represents openness and receptivity. The superior person, like the lake, is open to receiving others and is influenced by their surroundings. This receptiveness allows for mutual influence and growth.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team