I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 60 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 5 to Hexagram 2

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 60.1.2.5 -> 2

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

60. Limitation

Yin Yin Yin Yin Yin Yin

2. The Receptive

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This line warns of being overly restrictive or withdrawn, leading to missed opportunities or stagnation.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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"甘節，吉。往有尚。"
(Gān jié, jí. Wǎng yǒu shàng.)
English Translation:
“Sweet limitation. Good fortune. Going forward brings honor.”

This line describes a situation where limitations are not seen as restrictive but as beneficial, leading to good fortune. By respecting boundaries and acting with discipline, one gains honor and success.

Changing to:

2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 2

Hexagram 坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.

Hexagram 2 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨，利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.”

The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.

Hexagram 2 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地势坤，君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
English Translation:
“The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world.”

The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team