I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 64 with Changing Lines 5 to Hexagram 6
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 64.5 -> 6
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
"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.)
“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
"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.)
“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 5 Changing
"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.)
“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.
Changing to:
6. Conflict (訟 Sòng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 6
Hexagram Sòng (Conflict) represents a time of dispute or disagreement. This hexagram signals a moment when conflicts must be addressed. The key to resolution lies in upholding righteousness and avoiding impulsive reactions driven by anger or emotion.
Hexagram 6 Judgment
"有孚,窒惕,中吉,终凶。利见大人,不利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, zhì tì, zhōng jí, zhōng xiōng. Lì jiàn dà rén, bù lì shè dà chuān.)
“Conflict demands sincerity. Be cautious and halt before it escalates. There is success in the middle, but disaster awaits at the end. It is beneficial to consult a wise person, but unfavorable to undertake major ventures, like crossing a great river.”
Conflict is best managed through sincerity and careful restraint. Success comes from resolving disputes in the middle stage, before they intensify. While there may be some early success, prolonged conflict leads to harm. Seeking advice from a wise figure is beneficial, but engaging in large-scale endeavors (crossing a great river) is unwise during this time.
Hexagram 6 Image
"天与水违行,訟。君子以作事谋始。"
(Tiān yǔ shuǐ wéi xíng, sòng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zuò shì móu shǐ.)
“Heaven and water move in opposite directions—this is the image of Conflict. The wise person uses this time to plan carefully at the outset of any endeavor.”
Heaven and water moving apart symbolize discord and opposition. The wise person uses this time to strategize and avoid rushing into any new ventures, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning in navigating conflict.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team