I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 8 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 32
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 8.2.3.4.5 -> 32
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
"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.)
“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
"水上有地，比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“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 2 Changing
"比之自内，贞吉。"
(Bǐ zhī zì nèi, zhēn jí.)
“Holding together with those within brings good fortune.”
This line advises strengthening relationships with those closest to you, whether family, friends, or colleagues. Unity within your inner circle brings security and good fortune.
Line 3 Changing
"比之匪人。"
(Bǐ zhī fěi rén.)
“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
"外比之，贞吉。"
(Wài bǐ zhī, zhēn jí.)
“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
"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.)
“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:
32. Duration (恆 Héng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☳ Zhèn (Thunder)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 32
Hexagram 恆 (Héng) symbolizes endurance and lasting strength. This hexagram speaks of the need for stability, perseverance, and consistency in all things. Success comes from maintaining a steady course over time.
Hexagram 32 Judgment
"亨，利貞。利有攸往。"
(Hēng, lì zhēn. Lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Duration. Success. Perseverance furthers. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.”
This hexagram advises perseverance and stability. Success comes from maintaining a steady course, and it is favorable to have a clear direction. Endurance brings long-lasting success.
Hexagram 32 Image
"雷風，恆。君子以立不易方。"
(Léi fēng, héng. Jūn zǐ yǐ lì bù yì fāng.)
“Thunder and wind: The image of Duration. The superior person stands firm and does not change their direction.”
The image of thunder and wind represents the forces of nature that persist over time. The superior person, like these forces, stands firm and does not change their direction easily. Consistency and stability are key to success.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team