I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 8 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 5 to Hexagram 46
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 8.2.3.5 -> 46
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 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:
46. Pushing Upward (升 Shēng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 46
Hexagram 升 (Shēng) represents upward progress, growth, and advancement. This hexagram speaks of steady, consistent effort to improve one's position or circumstances. Success comes from persistence, gradual advancement, and humility.
Hexagram 46 Judgment
"升，元亨，用見大人，勿恤，南征吉。"
(Shēng, yuán hēng, yòng jiàn dàrén, wù xù, nán zhēng jí.)
“Pushing Upward. Supreme success. It is favorable to see the great person. Do not worry. Going south brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises slow and steady progress toward one's goals. Success comes from seeking the guidance of a wise person, remaining patient, and advancing in a humble and deliberate manner. The direction south symbolizes a favorable course of action.
Hexagram 46 Image
"地中生木，升。君子以順德，積小以高大。"
(Dì zhōng shēng mù, shēng. Jūn zǐ yǐ shùn dé, jī xiǎo yǐ gāo dà.)
“Wood grows up from the earth: The image of Pushing Upward. The superior person, by cultivating virtue, builds small things to achieve greatness.”
The image of wood growing from the earth symbolizes slow, steady growth. The superior person cultivates their character and gradually builds up small successes into great accomplishments. Patience and consistency are key.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team