I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 60 with Changing Lines 3, 6 to Hexagram 9

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 60.3.6 -> 9

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

60. Limitation

Yang Yang Yin Yang Yang Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

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 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 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"苦節，貞凶，悔亡。"
(Kǔ jié, zhēn xiōng, huǐ wáng.)
English Translation:
“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:

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