I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 9 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 6 to Hexagram 28

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 9.1.4.6 -> 28

Old Yang Young Yang Old Yin Young Yang Young Yang Old Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

Yin Yang Yang Yang Yang Yin

28. Preponderance of the Great

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
English Translation:
“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

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"复自道，何其咎，吉。"
(Fù zì dào, hé qí jiù, jí.)
English Translation:
“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 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚，血去惕出，无咎。"
(Yǒu fú, xuè qù tì chū, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Sincerity brings relief. Blood leaves, and fear departs. No blame.”

This line speaks of overcoming fear and danger through sincerity and trust. The image of blood leaving symbolizes the resolution of harm, and fear subsides as a result. When acting with integrity, one can overcome adversity without blame.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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:

28. Preponderance of the Great (大過 Dà Guò)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Dui (Lake)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 28

Hexagram 大過 (Dà Guò) represents a time when things have gone beyond their normal limits, requiring extraordinary measures. This hexagram speaks of a time when great strength or effort is needed to deal with overwhelming circumstances.

Hexagram 28 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"大過，棟橈，利有攸往，亨。"
(Dà guò, dòng náo, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, hēng.)
English Translation:
“Preponderance of the Great. The ridgepole sags. It is favorable to undertake something. Success.”

This hexagram speaks of a situation where the weight of circumstances is too great, symbolized by the sagging ridgepole. Extraordinary efforts are required, and success comes through careful and deliberate action. It is a time for great strength.

Hexagram 28 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤滅木，大過。君子以獨立不懼，遯世无悶。"
(Zé miè mù, dà guò. Jūn zǐ yǐ dú lì bù jù, dùn shì wú mèn.)
English Translation:
“The lake rises above the trees: The image of Preponderance of the Great. The superior person stands alone without fear and withdraws from the world without regret.”

The image of a lake rising above the trees suggests an overwhelming situation. The superior person stands firm and does not fear the challenge. Sometimes, retreat and quiet reflection are necessary to cope with overwhelming circumstances.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team