I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 9 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 21

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 9.2.3.4.5 -> 21

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

9. The Taming Power of the Small

Yang Yin Yang Yin Yin Yang

21. Biting Through

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 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"牵复，吉。"
(Qiān fù, jí.)
English Translation:
“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 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"舆说辐，夫妻反目。"
(Yú shuō fú, fū qī fǎn mù.)
English Translation:
“The carriage loses its wheel. The husband and wife turn against each other.”

This line warns of disorder and disharmony. The image of a carriage losing its wheel represents a breakdown in communication or cooperation. In relationships, this may lead to conflict if not addressed. It advises resolving misunderstandings before they escalate.

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 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚挛如，富以其邻。"
(Yǒu fú luán rú, fù yǐ qí lín.)
English Translation:
“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.

Changing to:

21. Biting Through (噬嗑 Shì Kè)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 21

Hexagram 噬嗑 (Shì Kè) represents biting through or confronting obstacles. This hexagram speaks of a time when forceful action is needed to break through resistance or obstacles, but it advises using this force with justice and wisdom.

Hexagram 21 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"噬嗑，亨。利用狱。"
(Shì kè, hēng. Lì yòng yù.)
English Translation:
“Biting through. Success. It is favorable to use legal proceedings.”

This hexagram describes a time for taking decisive action to resolve problems, like biting through tough material. Success comes from being firm yet fair, using justice or legal means to resolve disputes.

Hexagram 21 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"雷電噬嗑。先王以明罰勑法。"
(Léi diàn shì kè. Xiān wáng yǐ míng fá chì fǎ.)
English Translation:
“Thunder and lightning: The image of Biting Through. The ancient kings made laws clear and enforced punishments.”

The image of thunder and lightning represents swift and powerful force. The superior person uses this time to clarify laws and ensure that justice is served. It is a time for decisiveness in dealing with wrongdoing.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team