Transformation · lines 1, 2, and 3

The Flame becomes Transition

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Fire stands over Water once the three lower lines move: the light is still above, but below it everything has turned fluid and uncertain. The starting judgment speaks of clarity in your actions, an inner self that guides you toward your goals, and a generosity that shares your light and multiplies your gains. The resulting hexagram, 64 Transition, adds that things are coming together for success, yet some pieces haven't fallen into place. Mistakes born of immaturity can pull you off course, even after you've gotten what you want, when you stop or hesitate. Held side by side, these two say: trust the clarity you have, but don't assume the job is done. Keep your light steady and your attention alert through the last stretch. Generosity still helps; carelessness near the end is what to watch for.

What to read, in order

Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.

  1. The judgment of 30 The Flame

    There's clarity in what you do: your inner self guides you toward your goals. A generous attitude helps you, one that leads you to share your light, and this will increase your gains and achievements.

    Constancy is favorable. Success. Raising a cow brings good fortune.

  2. The judgment of 64 Transition

    Things are coming together so that success can arrive and you can take on great projects, but some things still haven't fallen into place. So stay alert, so you don't make mistakes born of immaturity, or you'll drift from your goals. This can happen even after you've gotten what you want: you stop, you hesitate, and mistakes happen.

    Success. The little fox has nearly crossed and wets its tail. Nothing is favorable.

  3. Line 1 of 30 The Flame

    Right now it's important to stay calm and focused on your projects, without getting swept up in the noise around you.

    Footsteps crossing every which way. With reverence, no fault.

  4. Line 2 of 30 The Flame

    Perseverance and a connection with what is right, as you follow your inner guidance, will bring you achievement and brilliance.

    Yellow radiance. Great good fortune.

  5. Line 3 of 30 The Flame

    Don't get swept along by life's ups and downs. Standing firm, centered within yourself whatever the outside circumstances, ensures achievement.

    The radiance of the setting sun. If no one beats the clay pot and sings, there comes the lament of great old age. Misfortune.

The trigrams

Below Fire Water
Above Fire stays

The way back

64 Transition → 30 The Flame
lines 1, 2, and 3

Other transformations of The Flame

Make your own cast

The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.

Toss the coins