I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 63 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 54

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 63.2.3.4.5 -> 54

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 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"婦喪其髮,勿逐,七日得。"
(Fù sàng qí fà, wù zhú, qī rì dé.)
English Translation:
“The woman loses her hairpin. Do not pursue. In seven days, it is found.”

This line describes a temporary loss or setback, symbolized by the woman losing her hairpin. It advises not rushing to fix the situation, as the issue will resolve itself in time. Patience and trust lead to success.

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 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"繻有衣袽,終日戒。"
(Xū yǒu yī rú, zhōng rì jiè.)
English Translation:
“A fine linen cloth. Be cautious all day long.”

This line speaks of maintaining vigilance and care, even in seemingly small matters, symbolized by the fine linen cloth. By remaining cautious and attentive, success is maintained.

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.

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