I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 64 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 8

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 64.2.4.5.6 -> 8

64. Before Completion (未濟 Wèi Jì)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☵ Kǎn (Water)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 64

Hexagram 未濟 (Wèi Jì) represents the state before completion, symbolizing a time when a task or project is nearly complete but not yet finished. This hexagram speaks of the importance of staying focused and patient as the final steps are taken. Success comes from careful attention and avoiding premature action.

Hexagram 64 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"未濟,亨。小狐汔濟,濡其尾,无攸利。"
(Wèi jì, hēng. Xiǎo hú qì jì, rú qí wěi, wú yōu lì.)
English Translation:
“Before Completion. Success. The small fox nearly crosses the river but gets its tail wet. Nothing is favorable.”

This hexagram advises caution and patience as one nears the completion of a task. Like the small fox crossing the river, a lack of care in the final stages can lead to setbacks. It warns against premature action and advises paying close attention to detail.

Hexagram 64 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"火在水上,未濟。君子以慎辨物居方。"
(Huǒ zài shuǐ shàng, wèi jì. Jūn zǐ yǐ shèn biàn wù jū fāng.)
English Translation:
“Fire over water: The image of Before Completion. The superior person carefully distinguishes things and places them in their proper position.”

The image of fire over water represents the tension between opposing forces and the need for balance. The superior person, like the elements, carefully considers all factors and makes thoughtful decisions to ensure success.

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 speaks of a temporary loss or setback, symbolized by the woman losing her hairpin. It advises patience and not rushing to recover the loss, as the situation will resolve itself in time.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"貞吉,悔亡,震用伐鬼方,三年有賞于大國。"
(Zhēn jí, huǐ wáng, zhèn yòng fá guǐ fāng, sān nián yǒu shǎng yú dà guó.)
English Translation:
“Perseverance brings good fortune. Regret disappears. The thunderous force is used to attack the Gui Fang. After three years, there is reward in the great kingdom.”

This line describes a long-term challenge or struggle that eventually brings success. Although the effort may take time, perseverance leads to good fortune and reward. It advises staying committed and patient.

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. A simple, sincere effort brings greater blessings than a grand but superficial one. It advises focusing on substance and avoiding unnecessary show.

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:

8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 8

Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.

Hexagram 8 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"比,吉。原筮,元永贞,无咎。不宁方来,后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”

This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.

Hexagram 8 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"水上有地,比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
English Translation:
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”

The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team