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Arcanasium
Oracle and the Sage
Red Focus Type
One of the most mysterious, ancient and powerful books on the planet is the I Ching. It is possible that it predates the Bible and likely that it is more than 5,000 years old. Using a system almost like Binary or Morse code, it gives the universe a language to speak to us. This is where the concept of Fortune comes into play. The Christian God is anthropomorphized or given the image of a 'Father' to better understand something that is on a higher plane than us. In the same way, the 'Sage' (Oracle) found within this book allows us to relate to and visualize what the presence of Fortune is. The wise, patient Sage is the Oracle we are speaking with when we use the I Ching. This presence is very much like a great martial arts teacher. Strict and disciplinary, He will tell you things you may not want to hear but need to in order to advance. Unlike other Divination practices, this is a direct answer to what you ought to be focusing on in life at that given time. In order to receive this answer, there is a process which involves this idea of Fortune.
Fortune is the same concept as Fate. You may have heard sayings like, 'There are no accidents' or 'There is no such thing as coincidence'. So when you are born under a certain sign, pull a Tarot Card or roll the dice, you could say that it was meant to be. This observation is very old and profound. Like we were starting to explore in the last lesson, the Universe around us functions outside of our control and is much more routine, meaningful and on a larger scale than we are. We have words for this idea like 'destiny', 'luck', or 'omen'. This is because deep down we understand that things happen for reasons outside of our senses or even comprehension.
"Coincidence is the word we use when we can't see the levers and pulleys". — Emma Bull
We have had many symbols for the same idea over time, yet we no longer consider them often or take the concept very seriously. This is, well, unfortunate. Separating ourselves from the understanding of Fortune, a greater power, or the Universe itself makes us think that we have things under control. We no longer acknowledge that there may be purpose or a greater plan. We walk blindly with our own chests inflated, acting superficially as if we know the reasons behind all things. Fortuna was a Roman Deity and there was a deity that shared this role in most cultures from Egyptian to Babylonian to Celtic to Indian to Native American. By now this shouldn't surprise you of course. Gad is a Babylonian Deity that basically served as the same representative of this concept and has ties etymologically to 'God'.
So whenever we are relying on chance to conduct our Divinations, we use a kind of matrix. A system of code in which we can view what is being told to us rather than what we think on the matter. We've already talked a little about the extreme odds when it comes to a tarot deck for instance. When you draw a card, you could say it is meant to be. Because there was no other outcome out of countless others, and 'meant to be' is the way the Universe works, it is what you were supposed to view and consider. After all, what is not meant to be? This is a strange humanistic confusion. All things are purposeful and don't simply occur by a series of accidents. No matter what you look at whether migratory patterns, evolution, orbits, traffic, language, physics, people.... all follow general laws of pattern or structure. Only disruptions will interrupt the pattern. And only for a short time before the structure is reformed and resumed.
When you lay several cards out in a given spread, the odds that you were to lay that spread is (relative to our human understanding) close to zero. This creates a matrix. There are at least millions of possible different outcomes and the one you get is the one that happened. By chance, by fate, by fortune. The more you practice with Divination, the more 'uncanny' you will find the answers to be. Gradually you will come to rely on these revelations as truth. It of course helps to not only trust Fortune, but to build a relationship with that entity.
In using the I Ching, that entity is called the Sage. You can actually form a relationship and learn from the Sage through this book and the matrix it creates through the Binary code-like trigrams it uses.
The way you create this matrix is by casting three coins to create lines. More traditionally, it was achieved through casting yarrow stalks.
Heads=2
Tails=3
Even Number= Broken Line (Yin)
Odd Number= Solid Line (Yang)
So 3 coins: Tails, Heads, Heads would mean: 3+2+2=7
7 is an Odd Number. So it would be a Solid Line:
Cast the three coins three times to create three lines.
Example:
1st Line: Tails, Heads, Tails- 3+2+3=8 Even
2nd Line: Heads, Tails, Tails- 2+3+3=8 Even
3rd Line: Heads, Tails, Heads- 2+3+2=7 Odd
Starting from the bottom, you draw the lines. It is not top down, but rather bottom up. So Line 1 (Bottom Line) is Even, line three is Odd.
This creates a Trigram.
3rd Line
2nd Line
1st Line
This Trigram represents a Mountain.
But Cast another Three times.
6th Line: Heads, Heads, Heads- 2+2+2= 6 Even (Special)
5th Line: Heads, Heads, Tails- 2+2+3= 7 Odd
4th Line: Tails, Tails, Tails- 3+3+3= 9 Odd (Special)
6th Line
5th Line
4th Line
This Trigram represents Air.
The second Trigram goes on top of the first Trigram to create a six-lined Hexagram.
The reason certain lines are 'special' is because the coins all landed on the same face on that casting (Tails, Tails, Tails). There are 64 different hexagrams, but because you can have special lines by casting three coins that land on the same side, there are many potential specific messages you get with the reading.
So this would be the created Hexagram:
6th Line (Special)
5th Line
4th Line (Special)
3rd Line
2nd Line
1st Line
So the Hexagram we have created has its own general message (We actually cast the coins for this instance and got this result). But the special lines have an important and specific side note to tell you concerning what is going on in your life. Getting a 6 or a 9 makes it a special line. These are only achieved by casting three of a kind in a coin toss. Sometimes special lines show something you are doing right and ought to focus on or strengthen. Other times it is a specific obstacle for you to look at in the right way in order to overcome it. Perhaps it is something you have been doing all wrong and need to change your angle and persona. The I-Ching readings have an uncanny insight into the human mind. The more you know about psychology the more profound and impactful these messages can be.
Let's look into the message of the above Hexagram.
Air over the Mountain, this is Hexagram number 53.
The 4th and 6th Lines are Special.
Some key images involved with this Hexagram are Air or Wood (Tree) on top of a Mountain, a Wild Goose, or a Bride. This is because the above trigram represents Air/Wood. The below trigram represents a mountain.
We will be using the default compendium that we often use:
Carol K. Anthony's "A Guide to the I Ching" translation.
53.
Chien
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(Allow time and the giving of space to be the vehicle of progress. Time is not of the essence, time is the essence.)
"Development refers to making progress in the difficult situations which comprise our Fate. Gradual progress is the means by which the unfavorable trajectory of events caused by our incorrect attitudes may be changed or reversed. It is the means by which both the great and small problems of life may be resolved.
Progress and change are necessarily slow because growth is an organic process. Organic processes require perseverance and fidelity because they are only completed by working in concert with natural forces.
The image of the wild goose, which remains faithful to its mate throughout its lifetime, symbolizes perseverance and fidelity. The goose's life is perfected when it reaches the "cloud heights". The image counsels that despite challenges, we should remain true to our principles, and faithful to our duty to rescue those who comprise our sphere of responsibility.
The lines enumerate the changes, dangers, and misunderstandings which threaten our will to remain true to our path. Chief of these is the challenge presented by time. We are required to wait, it seems, interminably. This challenge can be overcome only through steadfastness. The situation is not unlike that experienced by Columbus during his first crossing of the ocean. He held to his vision when everyone doubted him. His steady point of reference was the North Star. In remembering and clinging to his knowledge that the North Star always stayed in one place, he remained sure of his vision and was able to carry out what was then deemed impossible.
Of the many attributes of character discussed throughout the I Ching, steadfastness is seen as overcoming all assaults by the negative forces. The hub of the wheel, being a stationary point around which the spokes revolve, is given as example of something which is capable of moving heavy loads. Just as the stars stay in their places in the constellations, the Sage, through his constancy, attains the ultimate power. Constancy means that we do not allow ourself to be pulled or pushed off center balance, either by our ego, or by our inferiors. This also means that we do not react to what others do or fail to do. We are able to follow our task to correct our own sphere, because we see that if everyone works at correcting his own sphere, there will be order and justice in life, and suffering will be eased; we do not, therefore, seek to be released from this task.
Effort to maintain consistency of character during his slow, organic growth, enables the developing person's character to become strongly rooted, like the tree. His stature and quiet dignity provide example for all those around him who are developing themselves. At first the seedling pushes upward through effort and adaptability. During this time it is susceptible to dangers, but when the tree is mature, it is well-adapted and balanced, in harmony with itself and its environment.
Receiving this hexagram reminds us to accept the time required to complete our task, and to free ourself from any resistance that may have entered our attitude. We receive this hexagram repeatedly if we are impatient, as a signal to analyze why we are in a hurry, and to cleanse ourself of the ego-pressures which cause impatience. Being impatient indicates that we have not yet come to terms with Fate; we distrust where we think it leads, thinking we will be caught in a difficult and hopeless pit, and that there will be no remedy but to take matters in hand, and do things our way. Our ego (childish heart) would rather do anything than nothing at all. To be patient and accepting is in harmony with Fate.
(Special) 4th Line- A flat branch. The flat branch symbolizes yielding to what is happening rather than resisting Fate. The goose rests on what is available, even though it is difficult and unsuitable. Through nonresistance we will gradually find our way past the difficulty. Danger comes when we feel impatient, ambitious, desirous, or fearful, or when we sense an injustice, or look at the difficulties and despair.
(Special) 6th Line- The wild goose draws near the cloud heights. When we adhere to the strict formation required by duty, we energize the power of the Creative to correct the situation. When we stick to our path in spite of adversity, and remain sincere in our attitude, we reach the cloud heights. This line also means that on seeing people who wronged us in the past, we should keep strict discipline to maintain our inner independence. We neither dwell on what has happened, nor erect defenses; we maintain caution and reserve. In this way we avoid dangerous presumptions and remain free to respond to any real changes which have occurred."
- "A Guide to the I Ching" by Carol K Anthony
One main element that the I Ching tackles is the ego in an effort to strengthen what is called throughout the book the 'Superior Self'. This concept is the same as the Superego found in the last lesson and in classical psychology. It could also be termed 'Higher Self'. There is a process to cultivate this superior version of our psyche, to build strength in character, master our thoughts and emotions, become more resolute and profound. An example of something that typically happens is when you think you hear another person talking ill about you behind your back. Most often, it is something that didn't even occur. It is a projection of our own insecurities and fears. But a student of the I Ching does not allow these thoughts to take root. Dwelling on such things is a waste of time. Even if it did occur, to dwell on it undermines our stability and we must be the bigger person to not allow such a slight to our ego to affect us anyway. We are stronger than that and we do not react. This is just one instance that our ego manipulates our thoughts and actions wrongly, but there are many such occasions. It is a learning process, almost like being trained in a martial art.
The book differentiates between our Superior Self as opposed to our Inferior Self, the needy emotional and bodily impulses that involve our ego self-image and our primal brain.
The 'Creative' is the active principle in the Universe that is literally 'the Creator'. It is the governing law behind the Universe which is the foundation of all life and matter, sometimes called God. Acting in accordance to that which creates as opposed to what is destructive is the idea here.
You'll also notice the book mentions 'Fate'. This is what we seek to understand not only in this lesson but continuously and especially in the Blue Focus.
The Sage is the strict yet loving existence that is experienced while studying this ancient text. But you see, the Sage starts as your teacher. The Oracle itself. Something outside of you, a caring entity that you present questions to and who answers them. But over time, you slowly become the Sage. You can even become the Oracle with training and memorization, knowing what needs to be heard at a given time. But it can't be stressed enough that you begin studying this powerful book. It is a key cornerstone of Divination and you will become more disciplined and mature almost immediately. Even if Divination is not your goal it is a powerful foundation. Always it is your choice.
As long as you actually try to do what the book suggests, you will see things that you have never seen before. Things that happen in interpersonal interactions you may not have noticed. In other words, why people do the things that they do. The inevitable natural progression of things, including what nature will do in response to certain influences. When to act and when to retract. Or how you should respond to whatever happens, simply by knowing what quality the event is (the Eight Trigrams).
Here we will come to a crossroads.
You might be thinking, 'Really? What could possibly come from some lines? This is nonsense'. But language itself is consisted of lines. These letters you are reading are lines, and language creates boundary lines to distinguish one thing from another. You could be growing anxious or impatient. Observe for yourself whether this is a positive or negative excitement. You could be growing impatient and inwardly bucking against these beginner topics. You may understand that there is more. You may have already been working with the concepts we have covered and are eager to begin peering through the Veil. Some people have never heard of this stuff before. They are following, yet don't quite understand what is meant when we speak of the Veil, Ego or Otherworld for instance. This is why we have to maintain a steady and careful pace.
This crossroad will root out two different types of people, an important process in our community.
The I Ching speaks on what it calls 'Inferiors' or the 'Inferior Man'. These peoples' lives are based around the ego and shallow impulses. They are conscripts and simply exist to survive. They may work in a career which serves a practical purpose. But mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually they are static. You may think of them as NPCs or robots on autopilot. Their minds do not extend beyond their own experience, their relationships are tenuous and unfulfilling, there is no time made to pursue training of any kind, and there is no spirituality to speak of. They are very much a part of the system of this world. They believe what they have been told to believe, wear what is fashionable at any given time, and behave like they have been programmed to. They are automatons not very different from a computer program.
In all likelihood if you've come this far, you are not such a one. Or you are breaking out of that mold. If you continue, you will increasingly see things for what they are. Hopefully, you haven't fallen for the propaganda of the modern age. You may have seen how ridiculous the propaganda of old can be. However, it is not only still used, it is more prominent (and invasive) than ever.
One old trick is to get you to choose sides. Whether a political party, an ideology, or nationalism, you will often be told there is a common enemy which may be real or unreal. Political parties divide a nation, ideologies divide the individual, and nationalism is dividing the world.
Every shred of 'news' you get through media does indeed have an angle. Furthermore you are monitored as to how you respond to that news. When you focus on any one thing or topic (including products), you will continue to see more of that type of news. This puts you in an information bubble where you are incubated into forming the ideology of that side.
Chances are, whether fate or fortune would have it, you've always known things have not felt right. If you have felt this, it is because you have always sought for more. If you have always sought for more, it means you have come to the right place. The things we speak of in these beginner lessons are surface level and still fairly shallow. But we cannot delve too deep here to those who are uninitiated. Keep seeking and you will find it.
Unfortunately, within every field there are secrets. The government held the secret of UAPs (among a vast plethora of things) for decades. Religion holds a variety of secrets that not even the most bold priest will divulge no matter how much you attend a church. The scientific community too has become dogmatic (such is the Age) and there is a cult-like censorship and indoctrination of their own ideology. Yet each field within science knows a variety of ground-breaking things. It's strange that they don't come forward with it, almost as if they're afraid of toppling this house of cards society seems to be.
There is an option to everyone born here on this planet. The option of ignorance or curiosity. Our true nature, we were born curious. Yet many people will choose ignorance. While in school, they will see the subjects of geography, politics, mathematics and the like and become bored. These faculties of life they will willingly become ignorant of. Yet these remain faculties of life. Life that circumvents around them, leaving them standing there uninformed and angry.
To be curious is to behave more naturally and to have a more lucid experience. We ought to be curious and stand to learn about how civilization around us works. From the mechanics of the things we use every day, to psychology, and even to have an understanding of spirituality. Being willfully ignorant is a rebellious attitude often derived from being forced to learn by authoritarian figures such as teachers. But this attitude serves no purpose and instead is detrimental.
But consider, if we can build a simple matrix/language (even with only numbers) to peer into reality, what kind of matrix do we live in? Matrix is defined as:
NOUN
-
an environment or material in which something develops; a surrounding medium or structure
What rules surround us whether social, psychological or legal for instance determine how we are molded and processed. How are they broken?
The option of ignorance is the great barrier that is going on in this world. Self-created matrices are talked about quite a bit nowadays. Often, they are called 'information bubbles'. This is helped along through technology now, but it has always been an issue. A cow farmer will focus on their cows and will absolutely refuse to believe that methane is emanating from that cow farm. Politicians will adherently deny that they are taking money from lobbyists in a bribery campaign, yet they choose the policies and trajectory of a nation. Corporations will ignore the impact they have on the world's climate and on civilization. This kind of tunnel vision is absolutely going to put us in danger.
But it is easy to see why they have adhered to these beliefs. To maintain an inner narrative that what they are doing what is right and not having a negative impact on the world. They are very willing to be ignorant of the hard truth. Only better observation and a desire for progress can change the mind and in turn change the landscape of society. The scary truth is we all behave this way and live in a matrix of our own creation. The underlying foundation of this matrix is the same for all of us: The Ego.
Imagine a scientist goes to a farmer. The reason for this visit is simple. The chemicals the farmer sprays on the crops is killing people. Even the farmer's own children. Well, the farmer gets irate and even berates the scientist for being some kind of 'pencil neck' or some other ideological slight. The farmer is willfully ignorant of the fact that his chemicals are indeed killing people because it's a hard pill to swallow and it's all his family has used for generations. His ego will get into the way from learning new things even if it is to the benefit of the world. On the flip side of the same coin, the farmer might visit the scientist. The farmer might tell the scientist that he has noticed a couple of things. A new insect he has never seen before that is destroying the crops as well as interesting stones he finds in his fields, like obsidian. The scientist scoffs and disagrees with both notions. The scholar feels he knows more than the farmer. The scientist might say that obsidian is only found in a certain region. That there have been no reports from official researchers that such insects exist. This happens all of the time in fact. The dogma of science gets in the way and there has to be empirical proof, or discoveries already made along with several books written on something before scientists even consider possibilities. This is how we miss out on discoveries until much later. This is the effect a collective Ego or Matrix has. Ideological tribes and judgmentalism compartmentalizes society and it is why we cannot move forward as a human race. More than ever, we need agreed upon facts, acceptance and listening to each other. There needs to be a dissolution of the Ego.
​
Let us see how this looks in the real world. Consider how fear, ignorance and Ego play their part for both sides of this issue.
So some obvious insights come out of this straight away.
Fear. The Sentinelese act out of fear and most likely for very good reason. They have observed us approaching their island for at least 1,000 years. What kind of stories do you think they have passed down through generations? Our strange technologically advanced vehicles, strange lighter skinned beings emerging from these vehicles, sometimes even abducting them to perform experiments. Does this sound familiar? It is very similar to how we describe UFOs. Also, this has happened before in our own species' distant past. An ancient advanced civilization may very well be one of the origins of our concept on Gods. When they see comets do they compare them to our satellites? When they see other strange things, do they also attribute them to us?
There is a biological instinct to fear the unknown, and especially an unknown that seems powerful and intimidating. But one of the logical underlying reasons for their fear may be because there are remembered events where contact with the outside world spread death and disease. This fear is not only rational but correct. Based in truth.
Ignorance. The unfortunate young man chose to ignore many things. Obviously the dangers from the tribe, but also the danger he would have imposed on the tribe he is arrogantly trying to convert. Remember that the Sentinelese have been cut off from the rest of the world for so long that even the common cold could potentially devastate their society, possibly even killing all of them. His mission to begin with was a product of the Ego. If not his own, then the collective Ego of our society that thinks that we must convert these people. We assume that we are living the right way and that they should be so lucky to have us impose our way of life on them. It could be quite the opposite. For example, if a cataclysm were to happen now, civilization may be all but wiped out while the Sentinelese survive because of their lifestyle and survival skills. And from them the human race continues to live on.
So the solution really is for us to continue living our separate ways. Only the Sentinelese's curiosity and our responsibility can fix this situation. When we become curious we abandon Ego in the form of preconceived notions. It overcomes fear. Although we may still be afraid, we don't try and retaliate when we are curious, but seek to know. This attitude is innocent, constructive and pure. It leads to progress.
Responsibility is the behavior those with knowledge need to develop. When you know something, you have a responsibility to take the right action in response to that knowledge. Even if the Sentinelese became curious enough to go out and seek what lies out here in the world, the fact that we know the Sentinelese are afraid, potentially aggressive and vulnerable to disease, we would have to have the responsibility to make careful, constructive contact that would not put either party in danger.
The reason for this exercise in observation is to look at it in a personal sense as well as to be able to see how such things apply to us and in society. Sometimes we fear irrationally, sometimes the cause of fear is merited, and we must use measures in order to maintain a distance from that which threatens or damages us. If you encounter someone who has such defense mechanisms because they were hurt in the past, we must detach. This type of lesson is something that the student of the I Ching knows well. But this is only one visual and non-complex example. If you practice the teachings that this ancient book holds, how to behave in any given circumstance will become second nature. When you know the inner machinations of human behavior, you don't even have to explain to the other why or how you react the way you do. You lead by example and let them figure it out. This is the superior way. In psychology this is also called Self-Actualization.
It hurts for beginners to start seeing their Ego in a negative way. This is natural in the most real sense. We are biologically primed to behave as apes do. We live in gregarious cultures, and we are transitioning from a situation where there used to have to be an alpha and leader. These emotions and this grabbing for power is primitive. Yet this does not translate very well in the current society in which everyone must do their part and come together. Come together in our personal lives, across different ideological barriers, across nations. If we don't then we are doomed.
There is a way to break the mold. As soon as you start walking the path of the Superior Self you will offend people who have their own egos firmly established. They will lash out simply because you seem to be outside of the mold. This mold we refer to as the matrix, and we are fully aware of the implications in relation to the movie. While it may not be a computer program, the matrix that human society has created is very real. We can even use the movie as an example for you to see specific points.
What's the point? While you may not be in a computer simulation, most seem to live in several matrices. Your own matrix (your Code, habits, and limiting beliefs) as well as society's matrix. Notice the codes we adhere to are administered by other people. Priests in medieval robes. Judges still wear robes based on the 15th century. Politicians in 50s style business suits. They are outmoded. Vestiges of the past. These institutions inherit the code from before and seldom do they amend or make these rules adaptable. This causes conflict with those that are pushing the boundary or making progress.
What is divine intervention? It is our firm belief that divine intervention is when something higher than ourselves begins teaching us the right way. The best way to start experiencing firsthand this divine intervention is to start learning from a path that has directly and quickly made enlightened individuals from even the most disordered of fools. One such way is the path of Tao.
Tao is defined:
"Noun: the absolute principle underlying the universe, combining within itself the principles of yin and yang and signifying the way, or code of behavior, that is in harmony with the natural order. The interpretation of Tao in the Tao-te-Ching developed into the philosophical religion of Taoism."
If you do start studying, if you are mentally there, there will be aches and pains so to speak. We call these growing pains. Coming out of things like: your comfort zone, constantly 'fitting in', conducting small talk, putting on airs, and being socially 'normal' will at first be painful. It doesn't mean you should be eccentric or behave socially in any way that is awkward. Actually it should be the opposite. You won't give in to social pressures or act in accordance to how society wants you to conform. People should notice a change that is more confident, esteemed and responsible. Someone who is presently there and who behaves as if they are commanding their own life. Because after all, you are commanding your own life. Whether you do it in the right manner or the wrong way is up to you.
Just as we experience aches and pains when conditioning our physical bodies, we will mentally and emotionally have to push our boundaries. To become firmer, more solid, more strong in these faculties. The comfort zone of conforming to social norms and acting submissively in social spheres is hard to break out of at first. But serene peace is found on this path. The quiet inner calm that comes out of detaching from striving, from the squabbles of inferiors, and ultimately from the Ego is hard to convey. You must experience it to know fully the joy and peace that is achieved through this.
The ego is a powerful yet dark force. It surrounds us. It is not easy being a leader. It will estrange those who even subconsciously try and influence you. The more powerful you become the more the people will start seeing your light. They will come back around eventually, realizing that you are far stronger emotionally, mentally, spiritually and if you want, physically. But instead of them influencing you, they will follow your guidance. If they do not come back around, it is for a reason. They likely wanted to influence, manipulate or control you. Perhaps even take advantage. You will be better off without them.
Eight Trigrams
You may think of these Eight Trigrams like a code. A code of living, or like a computer code. Ying and Yang are like the Binary Code of ones and zeroes. These can be put into blocks of information which are the trigrams or the hexagrams. Kind of like how a byte of information is just 8 lines of ones and zeroes in a specific order. Very much like how we create these Trigrams. Yang represents the concept of 'Heaven'. It is the creative, active principle. Whereas Yin represents 'Earth', the receptive, sensing principle. While there is the form of these two polar modes of nature or universal law, like the pure creative and active energy, or the solid immovable presence of matter, combining these two gives us all we know. For example, water may be both creative and receptive, but it should be more receptive (or Yin) as it reacts to outside influences, taking shape in response to what is acted upon it. Remember that we can behave, or become like water with our thoughts and actions. You will come to understand this more as we go through the Eight, and especially if you begin meditating on these concepts.
Ch'ien
Yang
Yang
Yang
Heaven
Consider how the heavens, the rain and clouds, the sun, the macrocosm is not only creative but cannot be acted upon. It is outside of our influence yet gives us all we need. Constantly active, dynamic, changing and in control, the heavens do not need advice on how to act. Instead, we must seek to understand how it behaves and act in accordance. This is called in the I Ching the 'Cosmic Viewpoint'. Elevating our minds to see the bigger picture, or a bird's-eye view of the situation. This also brings to mind divinity, higher beings, God, the Sage or whatever you want to call the teaching force of guidance. This principle leads by example, teaches us by its very nature. Because it is pure Yang, dynamic action or force, it also represents a call for completion. There is the image of looking to the sky or the stars when we ponder something or ask 'why'. This Trigram is the hardest to describe as it exists in the pure realm of Form. We will discuss more on this realm of Forms in the Archetype lesson, but consider the word Heaven itself. This is a lofty expression, something that exists more in thought than something we can point our finger at. It is like a slab of marble before the sculptor chisels the statue out of it. It means limitless potential and represents providence. Being all things at once, it still needs to have a direction. Pure giving as opposed to receiving. When you see this Trigram, it is often an indication that we must take the shape of our Higher Selves. That we likely have all that we need to progress or bring something to completion, but we need to act on it. To act in accordance as the Universe intends, and to lead by example or become the creative force. But as with all I Ching readings, the message is defined by the Trigram that comes before or after it. Remember that the full message is in the form of a hexagram. How two of these Trigrams interact with each other.
K'un
Yin
Yin
Yin
Earth
The Earth bears all life and all things upon it. By allowing itself to receive sunlight or rain for instance, it gives birth to all living things upon it. By allowing itself to be acted upon, it brings to completion the original intention of creativity. It also nurtures all life through its sensitivity. Sometimes through inaction, through listening or sensing we get more done. We make progress or bring to completion something greater than ourselves. Remember that only an empty cup can be filled. You cannot see your reflection in boiling water, but rather still waters. In the same way, in order for self-reflection, we must still our minds. In order to learn something new, we must empty from our minds preconceived beliefs. Rather than being busy or active, instead we wait and we sense what is going on around us. This is how we become receptive and sensitive. This is how the Universe may act upon us in order for progress. Receiving this Trigram typically means that it is not the time for us to create or act, but rather allow creation to act upon us. To allow things to occur without our influence and to learn from it. Keep in mind how easily molded the Earth can be. Like soil or clay, it is because of the mutability that we are able to create with it. This is the polar opposite of the limitless action of Heaven and it represents the ultimate need to be acted upon. When there is a talker, there must be a listener. The interaction between these two Trigrams is how all energy, all matter in the Universe interacts.
Li
Yang
Yin
Yang
Fire
Burning desire, clinging, motivation and striving. Fire consumes. It needs to consume, and to spread in order to exist. We become mentally like this when we desire or want. When we are competitive. When we are attracted. When we become worried or fearful, jealous perhaps. This is about attachments. We cling to a belief that we need more and become active outwardly because inwardly we want to receive something that feels unfulfilled. You can see this in the lines as the outer lines are Yang/Active and the center is Yin/Needing. It is like that empty void inside of us that we have to fill. Or like hunger. This is also seen in the very nature of fire as it itself is incorporeal, yet has great effects on what it acts upon. Although it is purely energy, it is utterly reliant upon a fuel source. Force changes matter. Consider when something is consumed by fire. It changes from one form to another. From wood to gases and ash. Pure force or action changes things in the same manner. We become like this when we are codependent upon anything. If we become codependent on another person, become addicted to a substance or when we can't shake a feeling of anxiousness or restlessness. We will start expending great amounts of energy to attain what we want or strive for. Although much of this sounds more negative in nature, and it can be depending on your reading, remember that this is also the mode of progress. When we feel a need for more, it is the fire beneath our feet that calls us to action and we will not feel whole until we get what fulfills us. Striving usually causes unrest and change all around it. Sometimes destruction, as in the striving of warfare, or the striving for dominance. All physics, nature and life does this when it is close to balance (All Yang). It will act with extreme force, even cataclysmically, in order to achieve this balance such as in the effect of lightning. This momentum can be fueled in us by desire, ambition, attraction or even rage.
You may have noticed characters both real and fictional that mostly operate in this mode. There is at least one strong motivation that drives them. It is their ambition, their drive, their purpose. Without that motivation however, the fire goes out.
K'an
Yin
Yang
Yin
Water
Water however does have a corporeal form, but this form is mutable. It is fundamentally fluid. Rather than the drive, energetic force and ambition of Fire, Water always wants to settle. Not to use cliche terms, but it is truly about going with the flow. What does it mean to be fluid? To react responsively to things as they come. It is to be the opposite of rigid. This flow can be everything from a trickle to a dangerous crashing flood wave. Further imagery of this trigram relates to the abyss. This is due to water's nature of continuously settling. Flowing ever downward, you might think of a whirlpool as the water flows into a hole and into the unknown. Every trigram can have a dangerous side to it. Fire's is obvious. Whereas Fire always needs fuel to keep burning (motivation), Water needs constant movement or change. We become like this when we become detached. Then we become able to live in the moment and react to things without much forethought or preparation. If you imagine martial arts for instance, instead of having a bunch of practiced moves and stances, isn't it is better to react in the moment? To respond as things occur is an interesting power of Water and something we can behave more like.
This Trigram represents active, flowing water as opposed to stagnant water. It has much to do with emotions and concentration. Emotions are involuntary and reactive by nature. If we are living in the present moment, responding to everything as it occurs, this takes constant concentration. However it should be stressed the danger this trigram does represent. Emotions can be dangerous, misunderstood and they may mislead us. To be constantly flowing and moving is potentially taxing on the body and mind and it usually is indicative of restlessness. If we are restless, this often means that we are missing something. Like water ever flowing into the abyss, we may never fill the void or be content if we remain in this mode.
However, with the proper time and situation, being like Water can be quite powerful.
Sun
Wood/Wind
Yang
Yang
Yin
Wood is both rigid, yet adaptable. Not loose or fluid, this adaptability comes from necessity, growth and progress. As a tree grows, it will bend and twist and change direction in order to be in the sunlight. In the same way, we might adapt our beliefs, behavior, location or lifestyles readily in order to live fuller lives. The sunlight may represent truth, health or simply better and easier living. This may seem too similar to being fluid. While it is quite similar, there are some key differences. Think about the nature of water and how it flows around any imposing force. This comes from a fundamental detachment, a sort of going with the flow. Wood however is largely immovable yet bends in response. An example of this in human behavior could be if one were presented with an argument. Someone with an opposing view imposes their opinion in a derogatory way. A water type of response would be to ignore this reproach and to surround the argument itself in a detached or aloof manner. Humor and sarcasm might be used to show that you are beyond engaging in the argument altogether. A wood type of response would be to stoically maintain your beliefs while meeting the argument with compromise. You might offer that the others' opinions are heard and that you will take them into consideration. This compromising is similar to how wood retains its form yet bends. This is one of the significant powers that wood exhibits. This adaptability is what makes wood so versatile and an agent of progress (as in how wood grows).
Imagine this in a political setting. If everyone was willing to respond to the other, to adapt and compromise, we would be able to find a middle ground on most things. Instead we find important topics hitting a brick wall of another's immobile opinions, not willing to even hear or consider the other side, or negotiate and give any ground whatsoever.
But as with every Trigram there is much to consider about the imagery or the element associated with it. The adaptability wood is capable of gives way to progress and growth, versatility, resourcefulness and resilience.
Ken
Yang
Yin
Yin
Mountain
Solidarity. This is the mode of being that is immovable and unchanging. This is the kind of stance one should take when it is time to 'put your foot down' or not budge on a situation. It often comes about when we have a self-evident truth that we refuse to compromise on. The more conviction or the more evidence and reason we have in something, the more unwilling we are to move on the subject. The stronger we are against those who would try to change us. The interesting thing is, we can take this stance on many given situations whether or not we truly have a conviction in it. This is usually called being stubborn, but it is also a mode that might be taken by someone who debates professionally for instance. They can take either side of a topic and build an insurmountable wall of information that seems to be their own conviction. Whereas Wood was about bending and compromise, the Mountain portrays the opposite. This is important when we must take a defensive response, to preserve our integrity and standards against outside pressures. It takes strength and courage to stand up against opposition.
Perseverance is another key concept of this Trigram. The opposite of giving in or giving up, this comes from an inner strength. Determination gets us through seemingly impossible circumstances. Stories likely come to your mind where an individual underwent extreme pain, trials or poverty but eventually through sheer perseverance came out on top. Notice that perseverance was all they needed by the way. They may not have had extraordinary skill, intelligence or anything else. It was just the fact that they constantly kept getting back up and trying again. To be immovable and utterly determined makes us as strong as a mountain.
Tui
Yin
Yang
Yang
Lake
Inactivity, calm and grace. Imagine a quiet, still, crystal clear and serene lake. This stillness isn't active or reactive, it simply is. It poses no opposition, ambitions or movement of any kind. Often related to being 'joyous', this Trigram is what we adapt when we are simply experiencing or living in the moment. Inactivity is extremely important at certain times and we must know when to 'be still'. This doesn't always mean being silent either. You might see this type of serene grace in a close friend who makes you laugh during a difficult time. You might see this kind of beauty in a parent, whose child is terrified for their own wrongdoing, instead are shown mercy, love and kindness that teaches volumes more than a punishment would.
It's a Trigram that represents beauty, peace and calm. A time for reflection or meditation. Notice that a lake doesn't act upon anything, and it isn't insurmountable. In fact, people and animals gather around it. When we have this kind of stillness and joyous grace, others will want to be around us as well because we are easy to engage with and pose no outside influence. It shouldn't surprise you that this Trigram is also closely tied with the Subconscious. That's because it operates in the background, simply being and yet because of its inherent inactivity it notices things that our overactive conscious may not. In the same way, when we act with no motives and are easily approachable, we may see the true nature in people and things.
A perfect example of this mode is seen in the Buddha or in the idea of Nirvana. Freeing of the mind and acting in pure joy and love.
Chen
Yin
Yin
Yang
Lightning1
Shock, instant force and power. We all know the shock and awe if lightning strikes close by. It may be quiet. You're not expecting a thing, then all of a sudden, boom! Think of the sheer power and how immediate of a change it causes. In a blink of an eye, it decimates a tree. We might jump or run away or even scream. It immediately causes a change in us. The idea of this Trigram doesn't always represent destruction or fear however.
Matthew 24:27- "For as the lightning flashes in the east and shines to the west, so it will be when the Son of Man comes."
This is meant to portray just how sudden it will take place with no way to stop it. 'Like a thief in the night'. You may also recognize the correlation with Thor, Zeus and all of the other 'Thunder Gods'. They often came to power by conquering and held the power of lightning which is to say it was an immediate and unstoppable force. This sudden surge of energy we too can exhibit in many forms. Personally and with our bodies such as in martial arts or even as entire groups as with unions or political entities.
We see this Trigram when sudden change takes place either for good or bad. Natural disasters of course are a shock, but so too are sudden labor strikes or revolts of any kind. Nevertheless, it always arises out of an imbalance of some kind and results in immediate energy in order to achieve balance which can be dangerous and even destructive to anything in its path.
These Trigrams, representing different modes of being, can apply on many different levels. You may sense them in nature. Most often in people. You may choose to take on one of the qualities they represent perhaps in martial arts, perhaps in interpersonal affairs. For instance, when you see someone who is more like the Mountain aspect, you might take on a Water aspect in order to circumvent the situation at hand and prove more flexible rather than rigid. The better you get at recognizing these traits, the better you will be at seeing the 'code' and the quicker you can react appropriately. This is one power of learning the I Ching, but even more profound is the self-development you will undergo.
The journey of the I Ching and of Tao is a personal one. We don't do I Ching readings for other people. It is more about your own relationship with this ancient tome, the Oracle. You might think of a wizard who has a relationship with and is able to communicate with some 5,000-year-old grimoire. This is really what it is like when you come to know it and all it takes is the book and 3 pennies. It is truly one of the more profound ways to experience early on that there may be more to all of this.
But all of this has mostly been just discussing the surface use of the I Ching. The most important and the most fundamental thing you can take from this is the understanding of 'Fortune'. Whether you call it chance, the odds, luck or anything else. You should know that there is a presence there. When we experience coincidences we glimpse it. We call this Synchronicity. When we do any divination, we are relying on this intelligence to give us the answer we need. In addition to I Ching this Fortune/Synchronicity concept is directly used in Tarot, Runes, and many other more personal castings. So if you don't pursue the path of the I Ching, at least come away with the understanding of Synchronicity. But I suggest you at least test it out. It is much better for it to become true to you personally than to just accept the reality of it by taking someone else's word.
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