I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 60 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 4, 6 to Hexagram 12
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 60.1.2.4.6 -> 12
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
"節，亨。苦節，不可貞。"
(Jié, hēng. Kǔ jié, bù kě zhēn.)
“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
"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.)
“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
"不出戶庭，无咎。"
(Bù chū hù tíng, wú jiù.)
“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
"不出門庭，凶。"
(Bù chū mén tíng, xiōng.)
“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This line warns of being overly restrictive or withdrawn, leading to missed opportunities or stagnation.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 4 Changing
"安節，亨。"
(Ān jié, hēng.)
“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.
Line 6 Changing
"苦節，貞凶，悔亡。"
(Kǔ jié, zhēn xiōng, huǐ wáng.)
“Bitter limitation. Perseverance brings misfortune. Regret disappears.”
This line warns against overly harsh or rigid limitations, which lead to misfortune. However, once the rigid approach is abandoned, regret disappears. It advises finding a balance between discipline and flexibility.
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