I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 9 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 6 to Hexagram 39
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 9.1.2.6 -> 39
9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 9
Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.
Hexagram 9 Judgment
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”
This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.
Hexagram 9 Image
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”
The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.
Line 1 Changing
"复自道，何其咎，吉。"
(Fù zì dào, hé qí jiù, jí.)
“Returning to the path. No blame. Good fortune.”
This line advises returning to the proper course. If one has strayed, there is no harm in correcting oneself. This return brings good fortune and is free from blame.
Line 2 Changing
"牵复，吉。"
(Qiān fù, jí.)
“Dragging back the carriage. Good fortune.”
This line describes pulling back or restraining the carriage to avoid rushing ahead. It advises caution and careful control, which leads to good fortune. Sometimes slowing down is the best course of action.
Line 6 Changing
"既雨既处，尚德载，妇贞厉。月几望，君子征凶。"
(Jì yǔ jì chù, shàng dé zài, fù zhēn lì. Yuè jī wàng, jūn zǐ zhēng xiōng.)
“It has rained, and the rest is over. Virtue is displayed, but a woman's perseverance leads to danger. As the moon nears fullness, the superior person goes on an expedition and meets misfortune.”
This line speaks of a time after the rain (action) has passed. Although things seem calm, there is hidden danger in overextending oneself, especially for the superior person. The image of the moon nearing fullness represents a situation that is almost complete, and pushing further could lead to harm.
Changing to:
39. Obstruction (蹇 Jiǎn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 39
Hexagram 蹇 (Jiǎn) symbolizes obstacles or obstructions. This hexagram speaks of difficulties or impediments on one's path. Success comes from patience, perseverance, and knowing when to retreat and when to push forward.
Hexagram 39 Judgment
"蹇，利西南，不利東北。利見大人，貞吉。"
(Jiǎn, lì xī nán, bù lì dōng běi. Lì jiàn dà rén, zhēn jí.)
“Obstruction. It is favorable to go southwest, not favorable to go northeast. It is beneficial to see the great person. Perseverance brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises adjusting one's direction when facing obstacles. Success comes from going with the flow (symbolized by the southwest) rather than forcing one's way forward. Meeting with a wise person and persevering brings good fortune.
Hexagram 39 Image
"山上有水，蹇。君子以反身修德。"
(Shān shàng yǒu shuǐ, jiǎn. Jūn zǐ yǐ fǎn shēn xiū dé.)
“Water on the mountain: The image of Obstruction. The superior person turns inward and cultivates virtue.”
The image of water on a mountain represents difficulties or obstacles that prevent easy progress. The superior person uses this time to turn inward, cultivating inner strength and virtue while waiting for the right time to act.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team