I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 44
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.3.4.5.6 -> 44
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 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.
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.
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:
44. Coming to Meet (姤 Gòu)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 44
Hexagram 姤 (Gòu) represents an unexpected encounter or meeting. This hexagram speaks of sudden developments or the arrival of someone or something unexpected. Success comes from being prepared and handling the encounter with care.
Hexagram 44 Judgment
"姤，女壯，勿用取女。"
(Gòu, nǚ zhuàng, wù yòng qǔ nǚ.)
“Coming to Meet. The woman is strong. Do not marry such a woman.”
This hexagram advises caution when dealing with unexpected encounters, especially if the situation involves a strong or dominant force. The reference to not marrying such a woman speaks to the need for careful consideration and not rushing into commitments.
Hexagram 44 Image
"天下有風，姤。後以施命誥四方。"
(Tiān xià yǒu fēng, gòu. Hòu yǐ shī mìng gào sìfāng.)
“Wind beneath heaven: The image of Coming to Meet. The superior person announces their commands to the four corners of the world.”
The image of wind beneath heaven represents a message or announcement being carried far and wide. The superior person, like the wind, spreads their influence and communicates clearly with others.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team