I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 60 with Changing Lines 4, 5 to Hexagram 54

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 60.4.5 -> 54

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 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.

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:

54. The Marrying Maiden (歸妹 Guī Mèi)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☱ Dùi (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 54

Hexagram 歸妹 (Guī Mèi) represents the marrying maiden, symbolizing the secondary role and the idea of following established protocols. This hexagram speaks of relationships where one may not have full autonomy, requiring adaptation. Success comes from understanding one's position and accepting supportive roles.

Hexagram 54 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"歸妹,征凶,无攸利。"
(Guī Mèi, zhēng xiōng, wú yōu lì.)
English Translation:
“The Marrying Maiden. Going forward brings misfortune. Nothing is favorable.”

This hexagram advises caution in advancing into a situation where one lacks full authority or power, as misfortune may follow. It speaks of accepting limitations and adapting to circumstances without overreaching.

Hexagram 54 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤上有雷,歸妹。君子以永終知敝。"
(Zé shàng yǒu léi, guī mèi. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǒng zhōng zhī bì.)
English Translation:
“Thunder over the lake: The image of The Marrying Maiden. The superior person is careful about endings and recognizes the imperfection of things.”

The image of thunder over the lake symbolizes a situation of imbalance, where one must adapt to changing conditions. The superior person understands that all things are temporary and imperfect, leading to wisdom and balance.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team