An Introduction to the I Ching Hexagrams
Learn about the fundamental structure of I Ching hexagrams, the 64-hexagram interpretive system, and how to comprehensively analyze situations using Primary, Nuclear, Future, Opposite, and Reversing hexagrams
An Introduction to the I Ching Hexagrams
The I Ching: A Guide to the Dynamics of Change
The I Ching, or the Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese text that provides a comprehensive system for understanding and interpreting the patterns of change in the universe. It utilizes a set of symbols—the hexagrams—to illustrate the constantly shifting nature of all things, based on the interplay of two primary forces: Yin (a broken line, "--") and Yang (a solid line, "—").
I. The Basic Components of a Hexagram
1. Trigrams (Jing Gua, Single Hexagrams)
The foundation of the I Ching system consists of eight three-line figures, known as Trigrams. Each Trigram (Gua) represents a fundamental natural force:
- Ch'ien (☰): Heaven, The Creative
- Tui (☱): Lake, Joyous
- Li (☲): Fire, The Clinging
- Chen (☳): Thunder, The Arousing
- Sun (☴): Wind/Wood, The Gentle
- K'an (☵): Water, The Abysmal
- Ken (☶): Mountain, Keeping Still
- K'un (☷): Earth, The Receptive
2. Hexagrams (Bie Gua, Compound Hexagrams)
A Hexagram is a six-line figure formed by stacking two Trigrams, one on top of the other. With 8 x 8 = 64 possible combinations, the 64 Hexagrams symbolize all possible states and processes of change in the world.
3. The Structure of a Hexagram
A Hexagram is divided into two parts:
- The Upper Trigram (Outer Gua): The top three lines, often symbolizing the external environment or the later stages of a situation.
- The Lower Trigram (Inner Gua): The bottom three lines, often symbolizing internal conditions or the initial stages of a situation.
- The lines are traditionally counted from the bottom up.
4. Lines (Yao)
A "Yao" is any single horizontal line in a Hexagram. Each Hexagram has six lines, which are counted from the bottom up as the Initial Line (Line 1), Line 2, Line 3, Line 4, Line 5, and the Top Line (Line 6). The movement of these lines (changing from Yin to Yang or vice versa) is central to interpretation.
II. The Hexagrams in the Interpretive System
When consulting the I Ching, the initial Hexagram is part of a dynamic system of related Hexagrams that offer a multi-faceted view of the situation.
| Name of Hexagram | Method of Derivation | Symbolic Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| The Primary Hexagram (Ben Gua) | The Hexagram obtained from the initial divination. | Represents the initial state or current situation of the matter. |
| The Nuclear Hexagram (Hu Gua) | Formed by taking Lines 2, 3, and 4 as the Lower Trigram and Lines 3, 4, and 5 as the Upper Trigram of the Primary Hexagram. | Represents the inner core or the process of development of the situation. |
| The Changing Line(s) (Dong Yao) | The specific line(s) in the Primary Hexagram that are designated as changing (e.g., Old Yang changing to Yin, Old Yin changing to Yang). | Indicates the key factor or turning point where change is occurring. |
| The Future Hexagram (Bian Gua) | Derived from the Primary Hexagram after all Changing Lines have transformed. | Represents the final outcome or result of the situation after the changes have fully manifested. This is crucial for final judgment. |
| The Opposite Hexagram (Tso Gua) | Formed by reversing the polarity of every line in the Primary Hexagram (Yin becomes Yang, Yang becomes Yin). | Provides a contrasting perspective or the opposite energy of the situation for comprehensive reflection. |
| The Reversing Hexagram (Tsung Gua) | Formed by turning the Primary Hexagram upside down (Upper Trigram becomes Lower, and vice-versa). | Offers an alternative perspective or shows the situation when viewed from its reverse side. |
III. Example: Interpreting Hexagram 15, Ch'ien (Modesty)
Suppose an individual receives Hexagram 15, Ch'ien (Modesty) (☷/☶), with Line 2 designated as a Changing Line.
- Primary Hexagram (Ch'ien ☷/☶): Upper K'un (Earth) over Lower Ken (Mountain). It symbolizes Modesty and Humility, with the mountain hidden beneath the earth, indicating the current situation requires us to maintain a humble attitude.
- Changing Line (Line 2): Line 2 (Yin) changes to Yang.
- Future Hexagram (Ch'ien → Sheng ☷/☴): When Line 2 (Yin) of Ch'ien changes to Yang, the Lower Trigram Ken (☶) becomes Sun (☴), resulting in Hexagram 46, Sheng (Ascending) (☷/☴). This suggests the final outcome will be gradual advancement and steady progress upward.
- Nuclear Hexagram: Lines 2, 3, 4 (K'an ☵) over Lines 3, 4, 5 (Chen ☳), forming Hexagram 40, Hsieh (Deliverance) (☳/☵). This suggests the internal process involves resolving difficulties and overcoming obstacles.
- Opposite Hexagram: The opposite of Ch'ien (Earth over Mountain) is Hexagram 10, Lü (Treading) (☰/☱), reminding us that while being modest, we must also proceed carefully and observe proper conduct.
- Reversing Hexagram: Turning Ch'ien (Earth over Mountain) upside down yields Hexagram 16, Yü (Enthusiasm) (☳/☷), indicating that modesty ultimately leads to joyfulness and harmony.
This interpretive process shows us: beginning with modesty (Ch'ien), progressing through resolving difficulties (Hsieh), and ultimately achieving steady advancement (Sheng).