I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 7 with Changing Lines 4, 5 to Hexagram 47
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 7.4.5 -> 47
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 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:
47. Oppression (困 Kùn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 47
Hexagram 困 (Kùn) represents oppression, hardship, or restriction. This hexagram speaks of a time when one is trapped or hindered by external pressures or internal struggles. Success comes from endurance, inner strength, and seeking support from others.
Hexagram 47 Judgment
"困，亨，貞大人吉，无咎，有言不信。"
(Kùn, hēng, zhēn dàrén jí, wú jiù, yǒu yán bù xìn.)
“Oppression. Success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the great person. No blame. Words are not believed.”
This hexagram advises persevering through hardship and remaining true to one's principles. Success comes from maintaining integrity despite oppression. Although others may not believe in one's words, staying committed leads to good fortune.
Hexagram 47 Image
"澤無水，困。君子以致命遂志。"
(Zé wú shuǐ, kùn. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhì mìng suì zhì.)
“The lake has no water: The image of Oppression. The superior person brings their fate to completion and fulfills their will.”
The image of a dry lake represents a time of lack and hardship. The superior person, however, continues to pursue their purpose, even in the face of adversity. By accepting their fate and remaining determined, they fulfill their mission.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team