I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 4, 6 to Hexagram 21
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.1.2.4.6 -> 21
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 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.
Line 6 Changing
"大君有命，开国承家，小人勿用。"
(Dà jūn yǒu mìng, kāi guó chéng jiā, xiǎo rén wù yòng.)
“The great leader issues a mandate. Establish states and families. Do not employ petty people.”
This line speaks of a great leader who establishes order and ensures prosperity for the community. It advises against employing or relying on petty or selfish individuals, as they can disrupt the greater good.
Changing to:
21. Biting Through (噬嗑 Shì Kè)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
- Below
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 21
Hexagram 噬嗑 (Shì Kè) represents biting through or confronting obstacles. This hexagram speaks of a time when forceful action is needed to break through resistance or obstacles, but it advises using this force with justice and wisdom.
Hexagram 21 Judgment
"噬嗑，亨。利用狱。"
(Shì kè, hēng. Lì yòng yù.)
“Biting through. Success. It is favorable to use legal proceedings.”
This hexagram describes a time for taking decisive action to resolve problems, like biting through tough material. Success comes from being firm yet fair, using justice or legal means to resolve disputes.
Hexagram 21 Image
"雷電噬嗑。先王以明罰勑法。"
(Léi diàn shì kè. Xiān wáng yǐ míng fá chì fǎ.)
“Thunder and lightning: The image of Biting Through. The ancient kings made laws clear and enforced punishments.”
The image of thunder and lightning represents swift and powerful force. The superior person uses this time to clarify laws and ensure that justice is served. It is a time for decisiveness in dealing with wrongdoing.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team