Transformation · lines 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
Union becomes The Vessel of Nourishment
What this change means
Five lines move, from the second to the top, leaving the first alone at rest, and wood and fire take the place of earth and water. That unmoving bottom line gives the key. It says this change unfolds in less than ideal conditions and still comes to a good end.
The resulting hexagram, 50 The Vessel of Nourishment, describes change and adjustment that happens naturally, without great upheaval, the way food cooks; keep the flame of enthusiasm lit and know your ingredients, since the change comes little by little. Coming from 8 Union, the alliance itself is being transformed. Don't wait for perfect conditions or perfect partners. Work with what and whom you have, keep your enthusiasm alive, and let things cook. Watch for discouragement at a messy beginning. Imperfect starts tend to finish well when the fire is kept steady.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 1 of 50 The Vessel of Nourishment, which stays still
The change will happen under conditions that aren't ideal, but it will come to a good end.
The cauldron upended, feet in the air. It is favorable to tip out what has gone stale. A concubine is taken for the sake of her son. No fault.
- The judgment of 8 Union
Right now success lies in joining with people who are aligned with your project and who are a support for you. But it's important that you, too, have the qualities needed to carry it out; that's why you can toss the coins once more to find out whether you have those qualities.
Good fortune. Consult the oracle again: great and lasting constancy. No fault. The restless come from every side. The one who comes late: misfortune.
- Line 2 of 8 Union
When you speak sincerely about what you need from others, you'll receive the right help.
Joining from within. Constancy brings good fortune.
- Line 3 of 8 Union
You tend to choose badly the people you join with. Avoid shallow alliances that won't bear good fruit.
Joining with those who are not the right ones.
- Line 4 of 8 Union
Staying loyal to the people you ally with, and showing that alliance openly, helps you right now.
Joining outwardly. Constancy brings good fortune.
- Line 5 of 8 Union
Those who can help you will come naturally. Don't keep seeking help from someone who is reluctant to give it.
Open union. The king hunts, driving from three sides, and lets the game in front escape. The townspeople are not alarmed. Good fortune.
- Line 6 of 8 Union
If you're slow to seek alliances, by the time you realize you need help it will be too late.
Joining with no head. Misfortune.
- The judgment of 50 The Vessel of Nourishment
It's a time of change and adjustment, and it will happen naturally, without great upheaval, the way food cooks. Keep the flame lit: it's the enthusiasm that gives you the strength to keep going. And be clear about the resources you have, the way a cook chooses the ingredients. The change will come about little by little.
Great good fortune. Success.
The trigrams
The way back
50 The Vessel of Nourishment → 8 Unionlines 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
Other transformations of Union
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.