I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 9 with Changing Lines 3, 5 to Hexagram 41
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 9.3.5 -> 41
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 3 Changing
"舆说辐，夫妻反目。"
(Yú shuō fú, fū qī fǎn mù.)
“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 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.
Changing to:
41. Decrease (損 Sǔn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 41
Hexagram 損 (Sǔn) represents decrease or reduction. This hexagram speaks of a time when one must let go of excess or make sacrifices in order to achieve balance. Success comes from willingly accepting limitations and making wise reductions.
Hexagram 41 Judgment
"損，有孚，元吉，無咎。可貞，利有攸往。"
(Sǔn, yǒu fú, yuán jí, wú jiù. Kě zhēn, lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Decrease. There is sincerity. Great good fortune. No blame. Perseverance furthers. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.”
This hexagram advises willingly accepting decrease or sacrifice. Success comes from maintaining sincerity and making wise reductions. By persevering through this period of decrease, one finds good fortune and is able to move forward.
Hexagram 41 Image
"山下有澤，損。君子以懲忿窒欲。"
(Shān xià yǒu zé, sǔn. Jūn zǐ yǐ chéng fèn zhì yù.)
“There is a lake beneath the mountain: The image of Decrease. The superior person controls anger and restrains desires.”
The image of a lake under a mountain represents a time of decrease or limitation. The superior person, like the mountain holding back the lake, controls their emotions and desires, accepting the need for restraint.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team