3Bǎo Healing Arts
healing hands# healing movements# healing hearts
Integrative Healing andWellbeing
This collection of Yijing Hexagrams is made up of hexagrams being cast weekly, each Sunday, throughout 2021. The description for each week's drawing appears alongside the main hexagram, along with changing lines (if any) and transformations. For further exploration, sometimes blog articles or PDF files containing notes on symbolism, Traditional Chinese Philosophy, history or other intuitive comparisons are included. I encourage those interested to add their own perceptive impressions or use familiar sources of their own, as well. I introduce my favorite Yijing interpretations/sources, both online and in print only as a resource for those who are interested in deeper study of the oracle.
My goal is to offer readers a way to learn about this ancient divination system by focusing on one general reading weekly for personal development using the energies and cycles of time described by each Hexagram drawn. The question I pose to the oracle each week is the same, "What can we know about the prevalent energies of this week that can be helpful to us?" This is so individuals can intuit and apply their own conclusions, obviously unique to their circumstances. I do not intend these to be any kind of prophetic announcements or any form of fortune telling; the Yijing has been and is used in this way, but many scholars and sages point out that it not the best use of the oracle. In my experience the accuracy of the descriptions in any reading I cast can offer astonishing insights and observations, even down to details of time, phase of the moon or particulars of a personal issue, but still, its power, for me, is in the metaphors that inspire me to remember that no matter how different the modern world is from the ancient, the nature of the human condition remains constant as do cycles and seasons throughout our universe. Personally, I use it to guide spiritual development and to further my own understanding of Daoism, which I am now studying. I hope this is useful for anyone paying these writings any attention and I welcome questions, comments, and discussion so we can all enrich each other as we find our own ways back to Source.
Alfred Huang's translation of the I Ching sums up a fine way to use the oracle in his comments about Hexagram 17: Sui/Following:
A noblewoman consulted the I Ching about a possible marriage partner and the answer was Sui. The person casting the oracle told her this was very auspicious to accept the offer, because it indicated the four great virtues of yuan, heng, li, and zhen, plus compatability of intiating and response. "Nevertheless, the woman said, 'I have none of those four virtues. My situation is not compatible with the gua." She preferred to wait for another opportunity. The lady's decision exemplifies the way one should use the I Ching. It is not simply a matter of blindly following the oracle, but rather of understanding your place within the situation. (Huang, p. 165)
Ref: The Complete I Ching, The Definitive Translation by Daoist Master, Alfred Huang. Inner Traditions. One Park Street, Rochester, Vermont 05767. .
May 9th through May 15, 2021
13- Tong Ren: Fellowship
(Seeking Harmony)
Master Huang (p. 135):
"Tong Ren teaches that the wise classify people according to their natures, not for the purpose of treating them differently, but to seek common ground...The ancient Chinese dreamed day and night that the world would belong to the majority and the government would serve the common interest of its countrymen."
Since this is Mother's Day, what a fitting oracle message:
"Helped are those whose every act is a prayer for harmony in the Universe,
for they are the restorers of balance to our planet." Alice Walker
Blessings to all who are mothers, all who have motherly hearts, and all who nurture the living world; as we all come from the one sacred mother, our home, the Earth. With great peace, love and gratitude.
(Seeking Harmony)
Master Huang (p. 135):
"Tong Ren teaches that the wise classify people according to their natures, not for the purpose of treating them differently, but to seek common ground...The ancient Chinese dreamed day and night that the world would belong to the majority and the government would serve the common interest of its countrymen."
Since this is Mother's Day, what a fitting oracle message:
"Helped are those whose every act is a prayer for harmony in the Universe,
for they are the restorers of balance to our planet." Alice Walker
Blessings to all who are mothers, all who have motherly hearts, and all who nurture the living world; as we all come from the one sacred mother, our home, the Earth. With great peace, love and gratitude.
May 2nd through May 8th, 2021
Hexagram 44- Gou: Coming to Meet/ Encountering
I was struck first off that this hexagram came about on May 2- this is the day after Beltane in 2021, and its festivals honoring the sacred marriage of the Green Man (Oak King) and the Goddess of Spring, where among several other traditions, there were distinct sexual activities that ranged from innocent courting/ matchmaking to overtly sexual encounters. Although these traditions are tamed in modern day pagan rituals, the originals are described by several scholars and practitioners as having been focused on the whole of fertility- humans, in or out of wedlock, whose families secure the future, as well as fertility of the land.
According to Huang and other scholars, this is one of three hexagrams that addresses the subject by using a sexual analogy to describe the situation at hand. Of course, the meaning for individuals could be as varied as an opportunity for an actual illicit affair or sexual encounter of some kind, or a seductive opportunity where it isn’t obvious what, if any, benefit can be drawn. But, in King Wen’s situation, it became a way of talking about what to do as a leader when it becomes apparent that there is a potential traitor or charismatic troublemaker trying to worm into the power circle, or who is influencing people in the outer communities, far from the seat of government.
4 of the lines were changing: 3,4,5, & 6; the transformed hexagram is
7- Shi/ the Multitude, sometimes called the Army
In context of the reading, I take this to mean that leadership sensitive to the needs of all the mulititude is superior to leadership among factions that seek only their interests.
Notes coming soon and will be linked for those interested!!
I was struck first off that this hexagram came about on May 2- this is the day after Beltane in 2021, and its festivals honoring the sacred marriage of the Green Man (Oak King) and the Goddess of Spring, where among several other traditions, there were distinct sexual activities that ranged from innocent courting/ matchmaking to overtly sexual encounters. Although these traditions are tamed in modern day pagan rituals, the originals are described by several scholars and practitioners as having been focused on the whole of fertility- humans, in or out of wedlock, whose families secure the future, as well as fertility of the land.
According to Huang and other scholars, this is one of three hexagrams that addresses the subject by using a sexual analogy to describe the situation at hand. Of course, the meaning for individuals could be as varied as an opportunity for an actual illicit affair or sexual encounter of some kind, or a seductive opportunity where it isn’t obvious what, if any, benefit can be drawn. But, in King Wen’s situation, it became a way of talking about what to do as a leader when it becomes apparent that there is a potential traitor or charismatic troublemaker trying to worm into the power circle, or who is influencing people in the outer communities, far from the seat of government.
4 of the lines were changing: 3,4,5, & 6; the transformed hexagram is
7- Shi/ the Multitude, sometimes called the Army
In context of the reading, I take this to mean that leadership sensitive to the needs of all the mulititude is superior to leadership among factions that seek only their interests.
Notes coming soon and will be linked for those interested!!
April 25th through May 1, 2021
Hexagram 39- Jian/ Obstruction, Hardship, or Limping
Changing line 5, transforming to:
Hexagram 15: Modesty/ Humility
On 39:
Stephen Karcher interprets this one as “Limping”- “You confront many obstacles and feel afflicted, but the major obstacle is the way you are thinking. See the situation in a new way.” (In the Family Way)
Line 5 indicates that in the worst times, help comes
Transforming hardship to modesty, or humility, one of the three treasures Lao Tzu speaks of in Verse 67, Dao de jing.
On humility:
Is it:
To be in awe of the small, insignificant power one wields in respect to the overwhelmingly incomprehensible, sometimes terrible, and often wonderful way of things?
Or-
Is it:
Knowing how to set aside the ego for the common good?
Not that I know the answer to those questions- but there is more in the notes below.
Changing line 5, transforming to:
Hexagram 15: Modesty/ Humility
On 39:
Stephen Karcher interprets this one as “Limping”- “You confront many obstacles and feel afflicted, but the major obstacle is the way you are thinking. See the situation in a new way.” (In the Family Way)
Line 5 indicates that in the worst times, help comes
Transforming hardship to modesty, or humility, one of the three treasures Lao Tzu speaks of in Verse 67, Dao de jing.
On humility:
Is it:
To be in awe of the small, insignificant power one wields in respect to the overwhelmingly incomprehensible, sometimes terrible, and often wonderful way of things?
Or-
Is it:
Knowing how to set aside the ego for the common good?
Not that I know the answer to those questions- but there is more in the notes below.
April 18th through April 24th
30- Li- Fire/ Brightness
changing lines 4&5 to:
37- Jia Ren/ Family or Household
changing lines 4&5 to:
37- Jia Ren/ Family or Household
April 11 through April 17
Hexagram 19- Approaching
Changing Line 1
Hexagram 7 Army/ Multitude
Notes and link coming soon-
This is, like last week's casting, another hexagram that, according to Master Huang contains the virtues of yuan, heng, li, and zhen, making it a "very special gua" and "absolutely auspicious" (p. 179).
Commentary:
"Earth above the Lake.
An image of approaching.
In correspondence with this,
The superior person is willing to teach inexhautibly
An in his tolerance, protect the people without limit. (Huang, p. 180).
Changing Line 1
Hexagram 7 Army/ Multitude
Notes and link coming soon-
This is, like last week's casting, another hexagram that, according to Master Huang contains the virtues of yuan, heng, li, and zhen, making it a "very special gua" and "absolutely auspicious" (p. 179).
Commentary:
"Earth above the Lake.
An image of approaching.
In correspondence with this,
The superior person is willing to teach inexhautibly
An in his tolerance, protect the people without limit. (Huang, p. 180).
April 4 through April 10
17- Sui- Following
Dui/Lake above (Joy)
Zhen/Thunder below (Movement)
Alfred Huang considers this hexagram to be a very special one because it contains the four virtues of yuan, heng, li, and zhen. In the context of Joy, it could mean moving forward with joy, or joy following movement. The advice in the lines appears to be various way to influence people to follow.
See: "The Complete I Ching: The Definitive Translation" by Taoist Master Alfred Huang, (10th Anniversary Edition), pp. 164-170 for his complete chapter on this hexagram
or, jump to:
Wilhelm/Baynes online edition, linked below.
Dui/Lake above (Joy)
Zhen/Thunder below (Movement)
Alfred Huang considers this hexagram to be a very special one because it contains the four virtues of yuan, heng, li, and zhen. In the context of Joy, it could mean moving forward with joy, or joy following movement. The advice in the lines appears to be various way to influence people to follow.
See: "The Complete I Ching: The Definitive Translation" by Taoist Master Alfred Huang, (10th Anniversary Edition), pp. 164-170 for his complete chapter on this hexagram
or, jump to:
Wilhelm/Baynes online edition, linked below.
March 28th through April 3
22-Bi: Grace/ Beauty/ Elegance
Lower trigram= Fire
Upper trigram= Mountain
The feel is about grace and beauty- ornaments of something important that lend it elegance but are not the thing itself. There is a limit to the power of artifice and when it is not used with tact and reserve, it become gaudy and loses value. While the symbols of power are beautiful, they are not the power itself. One way to look at the advice here is to not be distracted by what is only appearance. Or, that this is a time of grace after darkness, like the Tower and Star in many tarot decks. Link below is to this hexagram's description from Wilhelm/Baynes online.
It's opposite hexagram is:
43- Guai= Breakthrough:
Lower trigram: Qian=Heaven
Upper trigram:
Dui= Lake
This can be about being conferred the right to speak. In contrast to Bi, it may be an advice to not confuse being given a privilege (adornment) with having a natural right (mandate- the "talking stick") It is interestingly linked to the third lunar month- April/May, when the power of the dark is receding. One source describes it, "On the other hand, applied to human conditions, it refers to the time when inferior people gradually begin to disappear. Their influence is on the wane; as a result of resolute action, a change in conditions occurs, a break–through." See #43 from the key in the link below.
Lower trigram= Fire
Upper trigram= Mountain
The feel is about grace and beauty- ornaments of something important that lend it elegance but are not the thing itself. There is a limit to the power of artifice and when it is not used with tact and reserve, it become gaudy and loses value. While the symbols of power are beautiful, they are not the power itself. One way to look at the advice here is to not be distracted by what is only appearance. Or, that this is a time of grace after darkness, like the Tower and Star in many tarot decks. Link below is to this hexagram's description from Wilhelm/Baynes online.
It's opposite hexagram is:
43- Guai= Breakthrough:
Lower trigram: Qian=Heaven
Upper trigram:
Dui= Lake
This can be about being conferred the right to speak. In contrast to Bi, it may be an advice to not confuse being given a privilege (adornment) with having a natural right (mandate- the "talking stick") It is interestingly linked to the third lunar month- April/May, when the power of the dark is receding. One source describes it, "On the other hand, applied to human conditions, it refers to the time when inferior people gradually begin to disappear. Their influence is on the wane; as a result of resolute action, a change in conditions occurs, a break–through." See #43 from the key in the link below.
March 21 through March 27 2021
54- Guai Mei/The Marrying Maiden or Careful Affection
Changing lines: 1 & 2
Should you follow your head or your heart?
Here is a mirrored statement to consider: want what you have, to have what you want.
This is about the kind of energy that charges secretive relationships among people who are affiliated by official roles- the Wilhelm-Baynes interpretation for 54- Guai Mai compares them with a woman who marries as the second wife, or an official who has a low rank, but a sincere friendship with a prince. Each must maintain decorum although the friendships have true affection and are more intimate, i.e., each may be endeared to the husband or the prince, but officially cannot show it or use it to gain privilege or favor.
Changes to:
16- Enthusiasm:
“Enthusiasm, in a personal relationship or in a group, generates special electricity.” (DF 16)
See more in the PDF notes:
March 7th through March 13th 2021
This week's hexagram was already cast before I woke up to begin the day- it was the first post I saw that morning on a Facebook page entry of a group I follow: The Taoist I Ching,
www.taoistiching.org contact: wsell4466@gmail.com
Hexagram 50- The Cauldron, is on one level about using the body as a cooking pot for what is really important- the True Spirit in sync with Universal Law.
It's opposite is the concept in hexagram 49- Revolution (also the idea of moulting fur or skin) which is at least about overthrowing what is no longer working, replacing the structure of life with a new appearance.
The nuclear trigrams make up the hexagram, 43-Guai-
Breakthrough which carries a meaning of having a critical insight on the one hand, and having the conferred authority to speak it.
Follow the link for a deeper description of the Cauldron as a metaphysical, alchemical process.
www.taoistiching.org contact: wsell4466@gmail.com
Hexagram 50- The Cauldron, is on one level about using the body as a cooking pot for what is really important- the True Spirit in sync with Universal Law.
It's opposite is the concept in hexagram 49- Revolution (also the idea of moulting fur or skin) which is at least about overthrowing what is no longer working, replacing the structure of life with a new appearance.
The nuclear trigrams make up the hexagram, 43-Guai-
Breakthrough which carries a meaning of having a critical insight on the one hand, and having the conferred authority to speak it.
Follow the link for a deeper description of the Cauldron as a metaphysical, alchemical process.
February 28 through March 6 2021
The Oracle Cast:
Hexagram 5, Xū= waiting, or nourished while waiting
changing lines 4 & 6 transforms to
Hexagram 1, Qián =
The Creative
“Qián moves, firmness. A noble one owing to his own strength never ceases.” LiSe (1)
Waiting with the proper attitude brings blessings and benefit. “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry” – adapted from Robert Burns poem, “To a Mouse”.
Consider more by following the link to the PDF file.
Hexagram 5, Xū= waiting, or nourished while waiting
changing lines 4 & 6 transforms to
Hexagram 1, Qián =
The Creative
“Qián moves, firmness. A noble one owing to his own strength never ceases.” LiSe (1)
Waiting with the proper attitude brings blessings and benefit. “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry” – adapted from Robert Burns poem, “To a Mouse”.
Consider more by following the link to the PDF file.
February 21 through 26, 2021
27: 6 (Yi- Corners of the Mouth- Providing Nourishment) with changing line 6; to 24 (Fu- Return – the Turning Point)
This seems to be about a regular course of events, i.e., the movement indicated by the phases of the moon- we are now embarking on the first quarter of that phase going towards the full moon, which is indeed on the 27th of February. 27 to 24 seems to outline the nourishing of spiritual development- using the idea of “food” a post heaven way of nourishment to bring about the return of the real, true spirit. This course is juxtaposed with its opposite energy: 44- Gou, Coming to Meet (what Lise calls “birthing”_ the idea of a chance encounter that rivets the attention, like sexual temptation, or a courtship that includes attraction, but will not lead to a marriage- a liaison or a tryst- is it worth it?; following it, one can risk certainty of the “good”, but it can also lead to going beyond the routine and creating something new.
Follow the link for more:
This seems to be about a regular course of events, i.e., the movement indicated by the phases of the moon- we are now embarking on the first quarter of that phase going towards the full moon, which is indeed on the 27th of February. 27 to 24 seems to outline the nourishing of spiritual development- using the idea of “food” a post heaven way of nourishment to bring about the return of the real, true spirit. This course is juxtaposed with its opposite energy: 44- Gou, Coming to Meet (what Lise calls “birthing”_ the idea of a chance encounter that rivets the attention, like sexual temptation, or a courtship that includes attraction, but will not lead to a marriage- a liaison or a tryst- is it worth it?; following it, one can risk certainty of the “good”, but it can also lead to going beyond the routine and creating something new.
Follow the link for more:
February 14 through 20
36- Darkening Light, line 5 to 63- After Completion:
A lot of information packed into this reading.
Check out the blog article linked here to delve in!
A lot of information packed into this reading.
Check out the blog article linked here to delve in!
February 7th through 13th, 2021
#56: The Traveler/Wanderer is the Yin phase of its Yang compliment: 55- Abundance/ Fullness, this
can indicate the turn of seasons or the concept of the creative movement of Yin and Yang being such
that one becomes the other- when conditions are full, transformation naturally happens. One thing
follows on another. At the time I’m doing this reading, the small signs of spring are becoming noticeable
all around. The branches on my favorite little dogwood tree are suddenly laden, almost bursting with
buds, not yet ready to open. The grasses in the neighborhood are just now showing a bit greener and
one of my friends recently posted a picture of the first yellow crocus to bloom in her yard. It’s still
extremely cold, yet the inevitability of one season following upon the other in harmonious, universal patterns, is obvious- the same, no matter what the world of humans is up to. Read more by following the link:
can indicate the turn of seasons or the concept of the creative movement of Yin and Yang being such
that one becomes the other- when conditions are full, transformation naturally happens. One thing
follows on another. At the time I’m doing this reading, the small signs of spring are becoming noticeable
all around. The branches on my favorite little dogwood tree are suddenly laden, almost bursting with
buds, not yet ready to open. The grasses in the neighborhood are just now showing a bit greener and
one of my friends recently posted a picture of the first yellow crocus to bloom in her yard. It’s still
extremely cold, yet the inevitability of one season following upon the other in harmonious, universal patterns, is obvious- the same, no matter what the world of humans is up to. Read more by following the link:
January 31 through February 6, 2021
24 "Fu"- Return,
changing lines 1 and 6, transforms to
23- Splitting Apart
"At its simplest- we have energies that are like right after the new moon; just a sliver of returning light. It is a time of hope after darkness has pushed out the light but has not extinguished it; it come back on a cycle. However, the light is still fragile and has to be cultivated and tended to or the dark forces can prevail again."
Read more by tapping link:
changing lines 1 and 6, transforms to
23- Splitting Apart
"At its simplest- we have energies that are like right after the new moon; just a sliver of returning light. It is a time of hope after darkness has pushed out the light but has not extinguished it; it come back on a cycle. However, the light is still fragile and has to be cultivated and tended to or the dark forces can prevail again."
Read more by tapping link:
January 24 through 30 2021
56- Lu- Soujourner/Traveller with change in line 1; transforming to
30: Li- Fire (Clinging Fire)
To learn about this reading, click the link below.
30: Li- Fire (Clinging Fire)
To learn about this reading, click the link below.
January 17-23, 2021
1- Qian- The Creative (God/ Dao/ Source), with changing lines: 1,3,4
transforms to
59- Huan-Dispersion (The Flood)
The way I am reading this is:
Heavenly creative vitality manifest as powerful Wind, or, Heaven's Will enacted through a force like the Wind blowing across the Waters. Maybe psychic revelations.
The energies of the coming week may demonstrate the power of the proverbial “winds of change”. These are necessary (maybe karmic) changes that have been in the works for a while (this is furthering and perseverance in one sense). On a more personal level, the virtuous one or noble cause, due to innate, Heavenly strength, keeps going (this is furthering and perseverance in another sense). The full promises of justice, peace and love can only be enacted in the Divine way and in synchronicity with sacred timing. When the Divine speaks, it is enacted with the sweeping force of the natural Wind. You can brace yourself, but you may not know how everything will settle once the gale is over. In the meantime, this reading offers a bird's eye view of the possibilities.
Heavenly effects on the sacred fields of the body- highest mind/self; human/ temporal Heart/mind (personality) and the personality’s effects on the body’s health and processes all have a hand in who we are and what we do. The human temple (through which the Divine, or the higher self also speaks) is ready to be approached; it is traditional to make an offering, even if you feel unready, blown apart, or blown away. Decide what within yourself you should let go of- if you can, let go of energies, people or situations that trigger hatefulness, spite, division, and attitudes of superiority within you. Get down to the work you are destined for, especially that work that unites toward a common goal.
Lines:
I learned originally that the lines of the original hexagram were the only important ones, but I have found in practice, sometimes the lines of the transformed hexagram apply as well, though not always. I have combined the two in this interpretation, because they do seem related to each other.
1) Hidden Dragon- do not act (timing)// “He brings help with the strength of a horse. Good fortune.” (recovering from mistakes)
It would have been nice for many of the problems that exist to have been handled before they became this big, since this is the best way to resolve a problem. The human mind conceives of an idea to exert power, but it isn’t yet a reality. The problem here is not having confidence about being ready or not feeling powerful enough to make change. It is also that the proper time has not been until now, and these are major changes that are being considered. Knowing timing is as important as knowing what to do and how to do it.
3) “All day long the superior man is creatively active. At nightfall, his mind is still beset with cares. Danger. No blame." (focus on real self not social self) // “He dissolves his 'self'. No remorse.” (removing blinders)
Something new is forming that is inspirational within and there is an indication that it is inspiring others, too. Maybe you notice that you are seeming to have an influence on other people- don’t be distracted by that ego. Stay on point- remember that this is a time of Divine Creation in which you are playing a part and work on the ways your own inner barriers have created walls that keep others outside. Yes, this is a type of self-sacrifice, but it is worth it.
4) “Wavering flight over the depths. No blame.” (role- attitude) // “He dissolves his bond with his group. Supreme good fortune. Dispersion leads in turn to accumulation. This is something that ordinary men do not think of." (releasing ties that bind, mentally or communally)
Wavering over the depths gives me a vision of a bird flying over the scenery and trying to decide from the exalted view where, or if, to land. It’s good to pause, because despite all you can see, it isn’t easy to know where or how to be. Decisions need to be made related to the outer world- fearlessness is required, which will be difficult. Listen for the inner voice as you act- do you stay private and do your work as a sage, or will you be public as a follower, an influential leader/ hero? Either is good, both are not possible at this moment and if you choose carelessly or in a cowardly way, you may make the wrong choice, even though paradoxically- there isn’t a wrong choice. You may have to give up alliances that are serving your personal interests right now for something that is bigger than all of you together. Doing this takes courage, insight and will to action that is very uncommon, but to achieve unity of common cause it is perhaps the most important thing you could examine and do.
Interpretation Sources selected for this week:
(all available online and referenced below): Wilhelm-Baynes (from the Virtual Yarrow Stalks- Russell Cotrell); LiSe (Yijing) and Roger Sessions (The Christian I Ching):
Description:
1- The Creative: “The Creative works sublime success, furthering through perseverance.”
[Lise: Creation. Eminent (expansion) Harvest (divination) “The great image says: Qian moves. A noble one owing to his own strength never ceases.]
[CIC: Genesis 1:1-3- God declares “Let there be light” Also, “…a wind from God swept over the face of the waters; the earth was a formless void/ darkness covered the face of the deep…” Ultimate creative (pure creative energy) the Ground of all that is; space and time are “…themselves only manifestations of its creativity. Time to create great works, draw on the strength of God; deliver on God’s promise of justice, peace and love; persevere, anticipate success.”]
Changing Lines
(Qian/ The Creative):
1) “Hidden dragon, do not act.” (The Virtual Yarrow Stalks)
[Lise: Heaven turns to Wind (idea in the mind or inner world)- “The most important part of any action is knowing when the time says not to act.”]
[CIC: a hidden force concealed, but true to its nature/calling; not a time to worry about conventional definitions of success; patience is called for- knowing that God’s work happens in God’s timing and the time is coming.]
3) “All day long the superior man is creatively active. At nightfall, his mind is still beset with cares. Danger. No blame."
[Lise: Heaven turns into Fire (inspiration in inner world): “Whatever one shows or does or even thinks should be genuinely and truly himself. One oneself appearing is shining. Associate with people of value, good and bad are both contagious.”]
[CIC: “… indicates a new sphere of influence. Fame is increasing, and people come with hopeful hearts…One must not be seduced by Ego (that is fed by popular adoration, ambition, desire for power) Stay focused, centered, and open to guidance from wisdom. No worries- good things are going to be accomplished- stay on point.]
4) “Wavering flight over the depths. No blame.”
[Lise: Heaven turns to Wind (into the outer world)- Somehow capering over the abyss. Without fault. Trigram Heaven turns into Wind. Fearlessness can accomplish miracles. As soon as a stuntman feels fear, he is in danger. Fearlessness is the core of the hero...Hex.1.4 is about what fearlessness accomplishes.”]
[CIC: A moment of choice where either choice could be right. Public hero or Private holy (sage). Listen for the quiet voice of wisdom to determine which one.]
Changing Lines- Huan/ Dispersion (fan yao- which are not always considered in a reading- I always read these, but with caution, as they may not apply)
1) “He brings help with the strength of a horse. Good fortune.”
[Lise: Auspicious. Much better than solving problems once they happen is dissolving them before they get a chance to happen. Stay within the scope of your abilities,” as trying to go beyond, “…is the main reason for things to go wrong.”]
[CIC: The best time for dispersal is in the beginning before problems begin to manifest. Misunderstandings and mistrust should decisively disperse right away.]
3) “He dissolves his 'self'. No remorse.”
[Lise: Do not get hooked to what you represent; that is the wrong way of believing in yourself, because it is believing through others’ eyes.”]
[CIC: This describes a time past which the work of dispersal is difficult- rational thought is no longer possible. It is a time when personal desires should be set aside; remove any internal barriers that you have created against others. Self-sacrifice of this magnitude is necessary to achieve this goal.]
4) “He dissolves his bond with his group. Supreme good fortune. Dispersion leads in turn to accumulation. This is something that ordinary men do not think of.”
[Lise: Disperse one’s group, great auspiciousness. Dispersion finds accumulation. Common people would never think of this. When a group (or your inner group of ideas) has no strict rules or borders, no dogmas, it is open for many people and for creativity. Trust others to take responsibility themselves, and reckon with their way of thinking, then existing contacts will improve, and many new contacts are made possible.”]
[CIC: The recommendation of this line is to disperse the short sided- interests and alliances that help in the short term in favor of those that are geared to the long term. This requires impeccable self-knowledge and the ability to discern beyond short term interests. Not many people can do this, but it’s necessary to achieve the unity of common cause.]
January 10-16, 2021
#23- Splitting Apart; also Stripping
Look at each trigram:
Mountain over Earth – “the high ones make their house peaceful by generosity to the low ones” [the mountain depends on the earth]
Earth below means (you- your inner self): receive and nurture (either giving or receiving); survival and conditions every creature must accept
Mountain above means (others or the outer world, either as it is, or how you are perceiving or being influenced by it): you may not see yourself as big as a mountain, but you do have a solid presence and definite borders (boundaries); keep at bay that which is smaller or not worthy of you (whether other people or your own actions/reactions); be firm, but also generous.
Balanced mountain: You may feel held back right now, but you can use this time to accomplish something valuable- you can give or receive trust and security; watch out for being too stubborn or rigid in your demands (or there are people around you who are this way)
This combination can also indicate the difficulty of having to make hard decisions; letting go so that the future can unfold
Splitting apart is not about speaking out- it is about tending to your own fields, cutting away anything that does not serve, including stripping away obstacles to the truth- examine things to find out why they aren’t working
Things are murky, reality unsure, intrigues and rumors abound. It is the time of illusion, mistrust, deceptions. When you find yourself in such a predicament, it’s okay to step back, hold back and hold on to what gives you solace- what is secure to examine the situation. Be discreet with your words and communication (discretion is the better part of…) This can be a painful time of disillusionment and is generally not a good time to take on something bold; also, don’t jump to conclusions, but do trust your gut. This week’s reading did not include any changing lines, but I am posting the line descriptions from Divination Foundation’s website (paraphrased- see the link for verbatim) for this hexagram to illustrate the themes of Bo, especially considering last week’s events at the Capitol Building in Washington D.C.
Lines:
1-Slander and intrigue- rats scurrying, undermining the foundation of a house; movement provides fuel for inferior forces at work. (Advice: be patient and brave)
2- Rise of troublesome people continues; no help; angry mobs; (Advice: safeguard by bolting your door; don’t be stubborn, stay away and protect yourself)
3- It might be the time to end old relationships that don’t serve your highest good or exert undo negativity. One way to do it is to make known who you are loyal to despite opposition- even if it ends some relationships, it is the right thing to do (Advice: follow the change that is necessary for growth)
4- If things have not been good for you, know that suffering will pass. This very well might be the bottom of barrel, but things won’t get any worse.
5- What is inferior will ultimately weaken, especially as the forces of deception must yield to the superior force of truth. The tide is turning and when it does, those who have waited for this outcome will prevail. (Advice: rally support for your position)
6- The time of disintegrating influence is coming to a close; negative forces have expended themselves- in an attempt to destroy good, the evil ultimately destroy themselves. The decay leftover will nourish the seeds of growth. (Advice: use the fresh energy of hope to nourish your growth)
Interesting take using Christian perspectives and scriptures:
https://christianiching.org/hexagram23
“He [King Nebuchadnezzar] burned the house of the Lord, the king’s house, and all the houses of Jerusalem; every great house he burned down...The bronze pillars that were in the house of the Lord, as well as the stands and the bronze sea that were in the house of the Lord, the Chaldeans broke in pieces, and carried the bronze to Babylon. They took away the pots, the shovels, the snuffers, the dishes for incense, and all the bronze vessels used in the temple service, as well as the firepans and the basins. What was made of gold the captain of the guard took away for the gold, and what was made of silver, for the silver. —2 Kings 25:8–15
Meaning is like what happened during the destruction of Solomon’s temple.
Look at each trigram:
Mountain over Earth – “the high ones make their house peaceful by generosity to the low ones” [the mountain depends on the earth]
Earth below means (you- your inner self): receive and nurture (either giving or receiving); survival and conditions every creature must accept
Mountain above means (others or the outer world, either as it is, or how you are perceiving or being influenced by it): you may not see yourself as big as a mountain, but you do have a solid presence and definite borders (boundaries); keep at bay that which is smaller or not worthy of you (whether other people or your own actions/reactions); be firm, but also generous.
Balanced mountain: You may feel held back right now, but you can use this time to accomplish something valuable- you can give or receive trust and security; watch out for being too stubborn or rigid in your demands (or there are people around you who are this way)
This combination can also indicate the difficulty of having to make hard decisions; letting go so that the future can unfold
Splitting apart is not about speaking out- it is about tending to your own fields, cutting away anything that does not serve, including stripping away obstacles to the truth- examine things to find out why they aren’t working
Things are murky, reality unsure, intrigues and rumors abound. It is the time of illusion, mistrust, deceptions. When you find yourself in such a predicament, it’s okay to step back, hold back and hold on to what gives you solace- what is secure to examine the situation. Be discreet with your words and communication (discretion is the better part of…) This can be a painful time of disillusionment and is generally not a good time to take on something bold; also, don’t jump to conclusions, but do trust your gut. This week’s reading did not include any changing lines, but I am posting the line descriptions from Divination Foundation’s website (paraphrased- see the link for verbatim) for this hexagram to illustrate the themes of Bo, especially considering last week’s events at the Capitol Building in Washington D.C.
Lines:
1-Slander and intrigue- rats scurrying, undermining the foundation of a house; movement provides fuel for inferior forces at work. (Advice: be patient and brave)
2- Rise of troublesome people continues; no help; angry mobs; (Advice: safeguard by bolting your door; don’t be stubborn, stay away and protect yourself)
3- It might be the time to end old relationships that don’t serve your highest good or exert undo negativity. One way to do it is to make known who you are loyal to despite opposition- even if it ends some relationships, it is the right thing to do (Advice: follow the change that is necessary for growth)
4- If things have not been good for you, know that suffering will pass. This very well might be the bottom of barrel, but things won’t get any worse.
5- What is inferior will ultimately weaken, especially as the forces of deception must yield to the superior force of truth. The tide is turning and when it does, those who have waited for this outcome will prevail. (Advice: rally support for your position)
6- The time of disintegrating influence is coming to a close; negative forces have expended themselves- in an attempt to destroy good, the evil ultimately destroy themselves. The decay leftover will nourish the seeds of growth. (Advice: use the fresh energy of hope to nourish your growth)
Interesting take using Christian perspectives and scriptures:
https://christianiching.org/hexagram23
“He [King Nebuchadnezzar] burned the house of the Lord, the king’s house, and all the houses of Jerusalem; every great house he burned down...The bronze pillars that were in the house of the Lord, as well as the stands and the bronze sea that were in the house of the Lord, the Chaldeans broke in pieces, and carried the bronze to Babylon. They took away the pots, the shovels, the snuffers, the dishes for incense, and all the bronze vessels used in the temple service, as well as the firepans and the basins. What was made of gold the captain of the guard took away for the gold, and what was made of silver, for the silver. —2 Kings 25:8–15
Meaning is like what happened during the destruction of Solomon’s temple.
January 3-9, 2021
For this week's reading, my source is the Divination Foundation’s (DF) I Ching- linked below. Their explanations are modern, short and sweet; also accurate in terms of pertaining well to the situation that you have questioned the oracle about.
Hexagram #36: Ming Yi
Kun (Earth) over Li (Fire)- some titles given this hexagram are: Hiding Brightness, Injury to Light, Concealment of Light, Darkening of the Light
Idea: forces of darkness have hidden the light, or it is time to conceal your light in the face of darkness; or sometimes simply the timing is at night or at a darker time of year. Or, all three, as happened when I drew this hexagram, it was wintertime- January 4, 2020 at the beginning of a tumultuous week politically, during a pandemic when we have all been required to isolate.
Interpretation paraphrased from D. F:
“When the light goes down, it may be wise to become invisible. Imagine fresh darkness, the period just after sunset or after a fire has gone out. There is still much activity left over from the light of day, and movements in the outer world are at their most dangerous. Even the smallest sound, the faintest glow of light, can attract unwanted attention now.
When the darkness of stupidity reigns in human affairs, it is best to keep your brilliance “hidden under a bushel basket.” Let your thoughts and efforts be quiet, self-contained, and protected, as much as possible, from harmful influences.
Don’t let yourself be swept along on the current of conventional wisdom when too many dangerous uncertainties exist. Try not to become too depressed or anxious; this period, too, shall pass. Just endure it for now and preserve your self-confidence, while remaining cooperative and flexible. The time to assert yourself will come. Avoid looking too far ahead if you have not yet achieved your goals—that will only stimulate feelings of regret or longing, eating away your inner strength.”
Now is the time to be cautious and reserved. Control yourself. Do not needlessly stimulate forces of opposition. During dark, unsettled periods, it is best to step gingerly around the sleeping dogs.”
Hexagram #36: Ming Yi
Kun (Earth) over Li (Fire)- some titles given this hexagram are: Hiding Brightness, Injury to Light, Concealment of Light, Darkening of the Light
Idea: forces of darkness have hidden the light, or it is time to conceal your light in the face of darkness; or sometimes simply the timing is at night or at a darker time of year. Or, all three, as happened when I drew this hexagram, it was wintertime- January 4, 2020 at the beginning of a tumultuous week politically, during a pandemic when we have all been required to isolate.
Interpretation paraphrased from D. F:
“When the light goes down, it may be wise to become invisible. Imagine fresh darkness, the period just after sunset or after a fire has gone out. There is still much activity left over from the light of day, and movements in the outer world are at their most dangerous. Even the smallest sound, the faintest glow of light, can attract unwanted attention now.
When the darkness of stupidity reigns in human affairs, it is best to keep your brilliance “hidden under a bushel basket.” Let your thoughts and efforts be quiet, self-contained, and protected, as much as possible, from harmful influences.
Don’t let yourself be swept along on the current of conventional wisdom when too many dangerous uncertainties exist. Try not to become too depressed or anxious; this period, too, shall pass. Just endure it for now and preserve your self-confidence, while remaining cooperative and flexible. The time to assert yourself will come. Avoid looking too far ahead if you have not yet achieved your goals—that will only stimulate feelings of regret or longing, eating away your inner strength.”
Now is the time to be cautious and reserved. Control yourself. Do not needlessly stimulate forces of opposition. During dark, unsettled periods, it is best to step gingerly around the sleeping dogs.”