I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 63 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 23

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 63.1.3.5.6 -> 23

63. After Completion (既濟 Jì Jì)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☲ Lí (Fire)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 63

Hexagram 既濟 (Jì Jì) represents the state after completion, symbolizing a time when a task or project is finished, but vigilance is still required. This hexagram speaks of the dangers that arise after success. Success comes from maintaining balance and being cautious, even after achieving goals.

Hexagram 63 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"既濟,亨小,利貞。初吉,終亂。"
(Jì jì, hēng xiǎo, lì zhēn. Chū jí, zhōng luàn.)
English Translation:
“After Completion. Success in small matters. Perseverance furthers. At the beginning, good fortune. At the end, disorder.”

This hexagram advises caution after completing a task or achieving success. While small matters may still be successful, it is important to remain vigilant, as the end of a project can bring disorder if one becomes complacent.

Hexagram 63 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"水在火上,既濟。君子以思患而預防之。"
(Shuǐ zài huǒ shàng, jì jì. Jūn zǐ yǐ sī huàn ér yù fáng zhī.)
English Translation:
“Water over fire: The image of After Completion. The superior person considers danger and takes precautions.”

The image of water over fire symbolizes the balance between opposing forces. The superior person, like the elements, remains aware of potential dangers and takes preventive measures to avoid disaster.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"曳其輪,濡其尾,无咎。"
(Yè qí lún, rú qí wěi, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Dragging the wheels. Wetting the tail. No blame.”

This line speaks of a situation where progress is slowed or hindered, symbolized by dragging the wheels and wetting the tail. However, by remaining careful and cautious, there is no blame. It advises patience and avoiding rash actions.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"高宗伐鬼方,三年克之,小人勿用。"
(Gāo zōng fá guǐ fāng, sān nián kè zhī, xiǎo rén wù yòng.)
English Translation:
“King Gao Zong attacks the Gui Fang. After three years, he conquers them. Do not employ inferior people.”

This line describes a long struggle, symbolized by the three-year campaign, but eventual success is achieved. It advises remaining patient and diligent in long-term goals, but warns against relying on inferior or untrustworthy people.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"東鄰殺牛,不如西鄰之禴祭,實受其福。"
(Dōng lín shā niú, bù rú xī lín zhī yuè jì, shí shòu qí fú.)
English Translation:
“The neighbor in the east slaughters an ox. It does not compare to the neighbor in the west's simple sacrifice. The latter receives the blessing.”

This line advises that sincerity is more important than extravagance in offerings or efforts. The simpler, sincere approach brings greater success than the grand but superficial one. It advises focusing on substance over appearance.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"濡其首,厲。"
(Rú qí shǒu, lì.)
English Translation:
“Wetting the head. Danger.”

This line warns of overextending oneself or becoming too involved in a situation, symbolized by wetting the head. It advises pulling back and avoiding unnecessary risks, as pushing too far brings danger.

Changing to:

23. Splitting Apart (剝 Bō)

Trigrams

Above
☶ Gèn (Mountain)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 23

Hexagram 剝 (Bō) symbolizes splitting apart or decay. This hexagram represents a time when things are falling apart or being stripped away. It advises patience and waiting for better times rather than trying to resist the natural cycle of decline.

Hexagram 23 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"剝,不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“Splitting apart. It is not favorable to undertake anything.”

This hexagram warns against taking action during a time of decline or decay. It advises patience and acceptance of the situation. Resistance will not bring success, and it is better to wait for conditions to improve.

Hexagram 23 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"山附於地,剝。上以厚下,安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
English Translation:
“The mountain rests on the earth: The image of Splitting Apart. The superior person maintains a firm foundation below and keeps peace in their dwelling.”

The image of a mountain resting on the earth suggests stability, but also decay at the edges. The superior person focuses on maintaining stability and peace within their environment, even as the outer world may be falling apart.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team