I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 8 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 56

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 8.3.4.5.6 -> 56

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 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.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"比之无首,凶。"
(Bǐ zhī wú shǒu, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Holding together without a leader brings misfortune.”

This line warns that a group without a clear leader or direction is bound for failure. Strong leadership is essential for unity and success. Without it, the group will face misfortune.

Changing to:

56. The Wanderer (旅 Lǚ)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 56

Hexagram 旅 (Lǚ) represents the wanderer, one who travels and is not rooted in a single place. This hexagram speaks of a time when one must adapt to unfamiliar circumstances, relying on resourcefulness and resilience. Success comes from knowing when to move on and how to navigate changing environments.

Hexagram 56 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"旅,小亨,旅貞吉。"
(Lǚ, xiǎo hēng, lǚ zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“The Wanderer. Small success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the wanderer.”

This hexagram advises that while traveling or navigating unfamiliar situations, success comes from perseverance and adaptability. Although the progress may be small, by remaining flexible and resourceful, good fortune follows.

Hexagram 56 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"山上有火,旅。君子以明慎用刑,而不留狱。"
(Shān shàng yǒu huǒ, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ míng shèn yòng xíng, ér bù liú yù.)
English Translation:
“Fire on the mountain: The image of The Wanderer. The superior person is clear-minded and careful in the use of punishment, avoiding holding prisoners for long.”

The image of fire on the mountain represents a time of transience and impermanence. The superior person, like the wanderer, remains clear-minded and cautious, taking decisive action but not becoming too attached to any single place or situation.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team