I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 2, 4, 5 to Hexagram 45
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.2.4.5 -> 45
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 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 5 Changing
"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.)
“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.
Changing to:
45. Gathering Together (萃 Cuì)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 45
Hexagram 萃 (Cuì) represents gathering together or assembling. This hexagram speaks of the strength and unity that come from collective efforts. Success comes from mutual support, working toward a common goal, and joining forces to overcome challenges.
Hexagram 45 Judgment
"萃，亨。王假有廟，利見大人，亨，利貞。"
(Cuì, hēng. Wáng jiǎ yǒu miào, lì jiàn dàrén, hēng, lì zhēn.)
“Gathering Together. Success. The king approaches his temple. It is favorable to meet the great person. Success. Perseverance furthers.”
This hexagram advises coming together for a common purpose. Success comes from collective efforts and seeking wise counsel. The image of the king approaching the temple symbolizes the importance of ritual, tradition, and collective harmony.
Hexagram 45 Image
"澤上于地，萃。君子以除戎器，戒不虞。"
(Zé shàng yú dì, cuì. Jūn zǐ yǐ chú róng qì, jiè bù yú.)
“The lake rises up to the earth: The image of Gathering Together. The superior person takes up weapons of war and guards against unexpected attacks.”
The image of the lake rising to the earth symbolizes unity and preparation. The superior person remains vigilant and prepared, guarding against unforeseen dangers, while fostering harmony and unity within the group.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team