I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 2, 6 to Hexagram 23

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.2.6 -> 23

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 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"在师中吉,无咎,王三锡命。"
(Zài shī zhōng jí, wú jiù, wáng sān xī mìng.)
English Translation:
“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 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:

23. Splitting Apart (剝 Bō)

Trigrams

Above
☶ Gèn (Mountain)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 23

Hexagram 剝 (Bō) symbolizes splitting apart or decay. This hexagram represents a time when things are falling apart or being stripped away. It advises patience and waiting for better times rather than trying to resist the natural cycle of decline.

Hexagram 23 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"剝,不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“Splitting apart. It is not favorable to undertake anything.”

This hexagram warns against taking action during a time of decline or decay. It advises patience and acceptance of the situation. Resistance will not bring success, and it is better to wait for conditions to improve.

Hexagram 23 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"山附於地,剝。上以厚下,安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
English Translation:
“The mountain rests on the earth: The image of Splitting Apart. The superior person maintains a firm foundation below and keeps peace in their dwelling.”

The image of a mountain resting on the earth suggests stability, but also decay at the edges. The superior person focuses on maintaining stability and peace within their environment, even as the outer world may be falling apart.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team