I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 55
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.1.2.3.4 -> 55
7. The Army (師 Shī)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 7
Hexagram 師 (Shī) represents the army and the discipline and organization required to achieve victory. This hexagram speaks of leadership, collective effort, and the strength derived from unity and command.
Hexagram 7 Judgment
"师贞，丈人吉，无咎。"
(Shī zhēn, zhàng rén jí, wú jiù.)
“The Army needs perseverance and a strong leader. Good fortune. No blame.”
An army, or any collective effort, requires perseverance and a capable leader to succeed. When these conditions are met, good fortune follows, and no harm comes to those involved.
Hexagram 7 Image
"地中有水，師。君子以容民畜众。"
(Dì zhōng yǒu shuǐ, shī. Jūn zǐ yǐ róng mín xù zhòng.)
“Water is within the earth: The image of The Army. The superior person nourishes the people and builds a great community.”
The image of water within the earth represents the hidden strength and resources of a collective group. The superior person understands how to nurture and unite these resources, creating a strong and cohesive community.
Line 1 Changing
"师出以律，否臧凶。"
(Shī chū yǐ lǜ, fǒu zāng xiōng.)
“The army goes out according to rules. If the rules are not followed, misfortune.”
This line emphasizes the importance of discipline and order within the army. Success is only possible if the rules are followed. If the army acts without discipline, misfortune will result.
Line 2 Changing
"在师中吉，无咎，王三锡命。"
(Zài shī zhōng jí, wú jiù, wáng sān xī mìng.)
“In the midst of the army, there is good fortune and no blame. The king bestows a triple mandate.”
This line speaks of a leader within the army who is in harmony with the group. Acting in accordance with proper leadership brings good fortune. The triple mandate represents honors or rewards from the king for leading effectively.
Line 3 Changing
"师或舆尸，凶。"
(Shī huò yú shī, xiōng.)
“The army carries corpses. Misfortune.”
This line describes an army that has suffered defeat or severe losses. The image of carrying corpses suggests failure and destruction. It warns of the dangers of war and the potential for misfortune if the army is not properly managed.
Line 4 Changing
"师左次，无咎。"
(Shī zuǒ cì, wú jiù.)
“The army retreats to the left. No blame.”
This line advises a strategic retreat. Sometimes, stepping back or taking a defensive position is necessary to avoid greater harm. There is no blame in recognizing when it is wise to withdraw.
Changing to:
55. Abundance (豐 Fēng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 55
Hexagram 豐 (Fēng) represents abundance, fullness, and prosperity. This hexagram speaks of a time of great success, where everything flourishes and grows. Success comes from managing abundance wisely and preparing for the inevitable changes that follow prosperity.
Hexagram 55 Judgment
"豐，亨，王假之，勿憂，宜日中。"
(Fēng, hēng, wáng jiǎ zhī, wù yōu, yí rì zhōng.)
“Abundance. Success. The king approaches it. Do not worry. It is favorable to be at midday.”
This hexagram advises embracing the current time of abundance and success. Just as midday represents the peak of the sun’s strength, this is a time of fullness and growth. However, it also advises managing this abundance with care and preparing for future changes.
Hexagram 55 Image
"雷電皆至，豐。君子以折獄致刑。"
(Léi diàn jiē zhì, fēng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhé yù zhì xíng.)
“Thunder and lightning arrive together: The image of Abundance. The superior person settles legal cases and administers punishment.”
The image of thunder and lightning represents the intensity and power of abundance. The superior person, like a wise ruler, uses this time of prosperity to address issues, settle disputes, and ensure justice is served.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team