Trigrams
☱☲ – Lake above, Fire below
Meaning
Represents fundamental change, revolution, and transformation. Fire within the lake — two incompatible forces that transform each other. True revolution is only justified when the old order has become genuinely untenable and the new serves the genuine good of all.
Interpretation
- Major transformation is sometimes necessary when the old order no longer serves.
- Revolution must be carried out at the right time, with the right people, for the right reasons.
- After transformation, consolidate and make the new order clear to all.
Six Yao (Lines) with Classical Quotes
1st Yao (初爻)
巩用黄牛之革。
English: Bound with yellow ox-hide. The time for revolution has not yet come; restraint and waiting are required before action.
Luck Level: Neutral
2nd Yao (二爻)
已日乃革之，征吉，无咎。
English: When the day comes, then make the revolution — going forward is auspicious, no blame. Waiting for the right moment and then acting decisively and correctly.
Luck Level: Good
3rd Yao (三爻)
征凶，贞厉；革言三就，有孚。
English: Going forward is misfortune, persistence is dangerous. But when the words of revolution have been confirmed three times, there is sincerity. Do not rush; let the case for change be made thoroughly.
Luck Level: Misfortune
4th Yao (四爻)
悔亡，有孚改命，吉。
English: Regret disappears — with sincerity, the mandate is changed. Good fortune. The genuine transformation of authority, supported by the people's trust, succeeds.
Luck Level: Good
5th Yao (五爻)
大人虎变，未占有孚。
English: The great person changes like a tiger — even before divining, there is trust. A truly great leader's transformation is so clear and powerful that it inspires confidence without requiring proof.
Luck Level: Neutral
6th Yao (上爻)
君子豹变，小人革面；征凶，居贞吉。
English: The noble person changes like a leopard; the petty person only changes their face. Going forward is misfortune; staying correct brings good fortune. After revolution, those who are not genuinely transformed must be watched carefully.
Luck Level: Caution