I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 63 with Changing Lines 3 to Hexagram 3

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 63.3 -> 3

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 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.

Changing to:

3. Difficulty at the Beginning (屯 Zhūn)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 3

Hexagram 屯 (Zhūn) symbolizes difficulty and confusion at the beginning of a new venture. It represents the struggles encountered at the outset of creation or development. Like sprouting seeds pushing through the soil, progress is slow, uncertain, and requires persistence. Zhūn encourages perseverance in the face of obstacles and advises careful planning and patience in the early stages. This hexagram illustrates that chaos often precedes order, and that new beginnings, though difficult, are full of potential once obstacles are overcome.

Hexagram 3 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨,利贞,勿用有攸往,利建侯。"
(Yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wù yòng yǒu yōu wǎng, lì jiàn hóu.)
English Translation:
“Sublime success. Perseverance furthers. Do not act in haste; it is favorable to establish lords.”

The judgment emphasizes that despite the initial difficulties, success is possible through perseverance. Acting hastily or impulsively is discouraged. The mention of establishing lords represents the need for careful organization, strategic planning, and forming alliances. It suggests the importance of solid foundations before advancing, as well as surrounding oneself with trusted individuals or a supportive network in times of hardship.

Hexagram 3 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"云雷,屯。君子以经纶。"
(Yún léi, zhūn. Jūn zǐ yǐ jīng lún.)
English Translation:
“Clouds and thunder: Difficulty at the beginning. The superior man brings order out of confusion.”

The image of clouds and thunder signifies the chaotic and tumultuous energy of the early stages of development. Clouds gather but do not yet produce rain, while thunder rumbles without lightning—a metaphor for potential that has not yet materialized. The superior man acts with wisdom and foresight, organizing and directing these chaotic forces toward a structured outcome. The lesson here is to remain patient and focused, trusting that with deliberate action, chaos can be transformed into order.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team