Yi-Jing, or the Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese divination text that includes a set of 64 hexagrams. Each hexagram is made up of six stacked horizontal lines, with each line either broken or unbroken. The hexagrams are then given names, with each name representing a unique combination of broken and unbroken lines. The hexagrams are also associated with various meanings, making this book an important tool for divination and decision making.
In this article, we will explore the eight hexagrams in order of their arrangement around the wheel of the Yi-Jing. Each hexagram has its own unique name, pronunciation, and meaning. Let's start with the first hexagram, Qian (乾).
乾 (qián)
Pinyin: qian
Meaning: Heaven
乾 represents the heavens, and is the symbol for the creative power of the universe. It represents strength, masculine energy, and creativity. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it is seen as an auspicious sign, indicating that the heavens are supporting the person or situation.
坎 (kǎn)
Pinyin: kan
Meaning: Water
坎 symbolizes water, and is associated with danger and difficulty. It can represent both the deep, dark, and unknown depths of water, as well as the flow of water and its ability to erode and wear down obstacles. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it indicates that the person or situation is facing challenges and difficulties that need to be overcome.
艮 (gěn)
Pinyin: gen
Meaning: Mountain
艮 represents the mountain, and is associated with stability, stillness, and quiet contemplation. Mountains are seen as immutable and unchanging, and can symbolize the need for inner reflection and balance. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it indicates that the person or situation needs to remain stable and steadfast in the face of difficulties.
震 (zhèn)
Pinyin: zhen
Meaning: Thunder
震 symbolizes thunder, and is associated with movement, action, and energy. Thunder is seen as a powerful force of nature, representing the ability to break through obstacles and open up new avenues of opportunity. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it indicates that the person or situation needs to take bold and decisive action in order to succeed.
巽 (xùn)
Pinyin: xun
Meaning: Wind
巽 represents the wind, and is associated with change, flexibility, and adaptability. The wind is a sign of movement and change, and represents the need to go with the flow and adapt to new circumstances. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it indicates that the person or situation needs to be open to change and willing to adapt in order to succeed.
离 (lí)
Pinyin: li
Meaning: Fire
离 symbolizes fire, and is associated with passion, inspiration, and transformation. Fire represents the ability to transform and transmute, and is a symbol of both creativity and destruction. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it indicates that the person or situation is in a stage of transformation, and that passionate inspiration and creativity will be key to success.
坤 (kūn)
Pinyin: kun
Meaning: Earth
坤 represents the earth, and is associated with fertility, nourishment, and nurturing. The earth is seen as a nurturing and supportive force, providing the foundation for growth and development. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it indicates that the person or situation needs to focus on nurturing and cultivating growth, rather than striving for immediate success.
兑 (duì)
Pinyin: dui
Meaning: Lake
兑 represents the lake, and is associated with joy, harmony, and beauty. Lakes are seen as calm, serene bodies of water, representing the need for inner peace and harmony. When this hexagram appears in a divination, it indicates that the person or situation is in a state of joy and harmony, and that beauty and grace will be key to success.
In conclusion, each of the eight hexagrams in Yi-Jing has its own unique name, pronunciation, and meaning. Whether used for divination or decision making, the hexagrams offer insight and guidance into the challenges and opportunities of life. By understanding the meanings and symbolism of each hexagram, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the wisdom and philosophy of ancient Chinese culture.