I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 9 with Changing Lines 1, 5, 6 to Hexagram 46
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 9.1.5.6 -> 46
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 5 Changing
"有孚挛如,富以其邻。"
(Yǒu fú luán rú, fù yǐ qí lín.)
“Sincerity binds together. You enrich yourself by helping your neighbors.”
This line speaks of the power of trust and cooperation. By being sincere and supporting those around you, you not only help others but also strengthen your own position. Mutual benefit and prosperity come from working together.
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:
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