I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 9

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.1.3.5.6 -> 9

Old Yin Old Yin Young Yin Old Yin Young Yang Old Yin

7. The Army

Yang Yang Yin Yang Yang Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"师贞，丈人吉，无咎。"
(Shī zhēn, zhàng rén jí, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地中有水，師。君子以容民畜众。"
(Dì zhōng yǒu shuǐ, shī. Jūn zǐ yǐ róng mín xù zhòng.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"师出以律，否臧凶。"
(Shī chū yǐ lǜ, fǒu zāng xiōng.)
English Translation:
“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 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"师或舆尸，凶。"
(Shī huò yú shī, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"田有禽，利执言，无咎。长子帅师，弟子舆尸，贞凶。"
(Tián yǒu qín, lì zhí yán, wú jiù. Cháng zǐ shuài shī, dì zǐ yú shī, zhēn xiōng.)
English Translation:
“In the field there are birds. It is beneficial to catch them. No blame. The eldest son leads the army. The younger son carries corpses. Perseverance leads to misfortune.”

This line speaks of opportunities in the field, symbolized by birds. It advises acting swiftly and decisively to capture opportunities. However, if the younger and less experienced lead, misfortune may follow, while the elder and more experienced should be the ones in charge.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"大君有命，开国承家，小人勿用。"
(Dà jūn yǒu mìng, kāi guó chéng jiā, xiǎo rén wù yòng.)
English Translation:
“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:

9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 9

Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.

Hexagram 9 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
English Translation:
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”

This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.

Hexagram 9 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”

The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team