I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 60 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 21
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 60.2.4.5.6 -> 21
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 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This line warns of being overly restrictive or withdrawn, leading to missed opportunities or stagnation.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 5 Changing
"甘節，吉。往有尚。"
(Gān jié, jí. Wǎng yǒu shàng.)
“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.
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:
21. Biting Through (噬嗑 Shì Kè)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
- Below
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 21
Hexagram 噬嗑 (Shì Kè) represents biting through or confronting obstacles. This hexagram speaks of a time when forceful action is needed to break through resistance or obstacles, but it advises using this force with justice and wisdom.
Hexagram 21 Judgment
"噬嗑，亨。利用狱。"
(Shì kè, hēng. Lì yòng yù.)
“Biting through. Success. It is favorable to use legal proceedings.”
This hexagram describes a time for taking decisive action to resolve problems, like biting through tough material. Success comes from being firm yet fair, using justice or legal means to resolve disputes.
Hexagram 21 Image
"雷電噬嗑。先王以明罰勑法。"
(Léi diàn shì kè. Xiān wáng yǐ míng fá chì fǎ.)
“Thunder and lightning: The image of Biting Through. The ancient kings made laws clear and enforced punishments.”
The image of thunder and lightning represents swift and powerful force. The superior person uses this time to clarify laws and ensure that justice is served. It is a time for decisiveness in dealing with wrongdoing.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team