I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 8 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 55

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 8.1.3.4.5 -> 55

8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 8

Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.

Hexagram 8 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"比,吉。原筮,元永贞,无咎。不宁方来,后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”

This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.

Hexagram 8 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"水上有地,比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
English Translation:
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”

The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚比之,无咎。有孚盈缶,终来有它,吉。"
(Yǒu fú bǐ zhī, wú jiù. Yǒu fú yíng fǒu, zhōng lái yǒu tā, jí.)
English Translation:
“Sincerity in holding together brings no blame. Sincerity fills the empty vessel. Good fortune follows.”

This line emphasizes the importance of sincerity in relationships. When one approaches others with sincerity, there is no blame. The empty vessel being filled represents the potential for success when trust is established.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"比之匪人。"
(Bǐ zhī fěi rén.)
English Translation:
“Holding together with the wrong people.”

This line warns against uniting with people who are dishonest or untrustworthy. Associating with the wrong people can lead to trouble. Choose your allies wisely.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"外比之,贞吉。"
(Wài bǐ zhī, zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Holding together with those outside. Perseverance brings good fortune.”

This line encourages forming alliances outside of your usual circle. Expanding your network and collaborating with others who may be outside your immediate group can lead to success.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"显比,王用三驱,失前禽,邑人不诫,吉。"
(Xiǎn bǐ, wáng yòng sān qū, shī qián qín, yì rén bù jiè, jí.)
English Translation:
“The leader holds together openly. The king uses three hunts, but loses the game. The people of the city do not reproach him. Good fortune.”

This line speaks of a leader who holds the group together openly and fairly. Even if some opportunities are lost, the people do not criticize, as they trust the leader’s integrity. In the end, good fortune follows from unity and trust.

Changing to:

55. Abundance (豐 Fēng)

Trigrams

Above
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
Below
☲ Lí (Fire)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 55

Hexagram 豐 (Fēng) represents abundance, fullness, and prosperity. This hexagram speaks of a time of great success, where everything flourishes and grows. Success comes from managing abundance wisely and preparing for the inevitable changes that follow prosperity.

Hexagram 55 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"豐,亨,王假之,勿憂,宜日中。"
(Fēng, hēng, wáng jiǎ zhī, wù yōu, yí rì zhōng.)
English Translation:
“Abundance. Success. The king approaches it. Do not worry. It is favorable to be at midday.”

This hexagram advises embracing the current time of abundance and success. Just as midday represents the peak of the sun’s strength, this is a time of fullness and growth. However, it also advises managing this abundance with care and preparing for future changes.

Hexagram 55 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷電皆至,豐。君子以折獄致刑。"
(Léi diàn jiē zhì, fēng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhé yù zhì xíng.)
English Translation:
“Thunder and lightning arrive together: The image of Abundance. The superior person settles legal cases and administers punishment.”

The image of thunder and lightning represents the intensity and power of abundance. The superior person, like a wise ruler, uses this time of prosperity to address issues, settle disputes, and ensure justice is served.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team