I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 62
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.2.3.4 -> 62
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 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:
62. Preponderance of the Small (小過 Xiǎo Guò)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 62
Hexagram 小過 (Xiǎo Guò) represents the preponderance of the small, symbolizing a time when small details or minor adjustments are crucial. This hexagram speaks of paying attention to the small things that can make a big difference. Success comes from caution, care, and addressing minor issues before they become major problems.
Hexagram 62 Judgment
"小過，亨。利貞。可小事，不可大事。飛鳥遺之音，不宜上，宜下，大吉。"
(Xiǎo guò, hēng. Lì zhēn. Kě xiǎo shì, bù kě dà shì. Fēi niǎo yí zhī yīn, bù yí shàng, yí xià, dà jí.)
“Preponderance of the Small. Success. Perseverance furthers. Small matters are possible, not great matters. The bird flies and leaves its call. It is better to remain below, not above. Great good fortune.”
This hexagram advises focusing on small matters and being cautious about taking on larger challenges. Success comes from attention to detail and avoiding overambitious actions. Like the bird, it is better to stay grounded and avoid unnecessary risks.
Hexagram 62 Image
"山上有雷，小過。君子以行過乎恭，喪過乎哀，用過乎儉。"
(Shān shàng yǒu léi, xiǎo guò. Jūn zǐ yǐ xíng guò hū gōng, sàng guò hū āi, yòng guò hū jiǎn.)
“Thunder on the mountain: The image of Preponderance of the Small. The superior person acts with excessive respect, mourning with excessive grief, and uses excessive restraint in spending.”
The image of thunder on the mountain symbolizes the need for caution and attention to detail. The superior person, like the mountain, remains still and grounded, while showing excessive respect, grief, or restraint to ensure success.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team