Transformation · lines 2, 4, and 6

The Vessel of Nourishment becomes Simplicity

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

A mountain hidden in the earth: with lines two, four and six in motion, the cauldron takes on the shape of modesty. The Vessel's judgment speaks of change that happens without fuss, like food cooking, as long as the flame stays lit and the ingredients are well chosen. The resulting hexagram, 15 Simplicity, says this isn't the time to boast or show off. Keep things simple, act fairly, and your talents will be recognized on their own. Balanced, they say your transformation goes best quietly. Don't announce it or decorate it. Do the work, treat people evenly, and let the results speak. Watch especially for the urge to display what you've achieved; that would invite exactly the envy and distraction this moment doesn't need. A plain pot cooks just as well.

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 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.

  2. The judgment of 15 Simplicity

    This isn't the time to boast or show off. It's time to keep things simple and to make sure you act fairly; your qualities and talents will show on their own and be recognized.

    Success. The noble person reaches the end.

  3. Line 2 of 50 The Vessel of Nourishment

    If you do things the right way, don't fear the envy your achievements stir up.

    The cauldron is full. My rival is ill and cannot come near me. Good fortune.

  4. Line 4 of 50 The Vessel of Nourishment

    If you stray from your purpose and get involved with the wrong people, you won't succeed.

    The cauldron breaks a leg and spills the prince's stew. Its form is drenched. Misfortune.

  5. Line 6 of 50 The Vessel of Nourishment

    Your actions will be richly rewarded. Success in your projects: you find human favor and divine help.

    The cauldron with a bar of jade. Great good fortune. Nothing that is not favorable.

The trigrams

Below Wind Mountain
Above Fire Earth

The way back

15 Simplicity → 50 The Vessel of Nourishment
lines 2, 4, and 6

Other transformations of The Vessel of Nourishment

Make your own cast

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

Toss the coins