Transformation · lines 2, 3, and 6

Transition becomes Success in Small Matters

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Thunder over the mountain brings the scale down as three lines change. Each judgment counts. Transition shows great projects almost within reach, though some pieces aren't yet in place. The resulting hexagram, 62 Success in Small Matters, says this is a time for small achievements, not great ones, and that trying to go beyond your present means wastes effort. Together they temper ambition. The great project may come, but not now, and pushing for it is exactly the kind of immature mistake to avoid. Focus on what is genuinely achievable today. Complete small things well and keep within your resources. Stay low, like a bird that comes down instead of climbing, and let the larger crossing wait for its time.

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 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.

  2. The judgment of 62 Success in Small Matters

    This isn't a time for great things; it's a time for small achievements. Recognizing that will help you live in step with the moment. Trying to go beyond your present means and resources will lead you astray and waste your efforts.

    Success. Constancy is favorable. Small things can be done, not great ones. The flying bird leaves its call behind: it is not fitting to rise, it is fitting to descend. Great good fortune.

  3. Line 2 of 64 Transition

    Patience, and waiting to act at the right moment, matter, but while you wait, get ready.

    Drags back on its wheels. Constancy brings good fortune.

  4. Line 3 of 64 Transition

    Acting hastily or trying to force things will lead to failure. Recognizing this and leaning on those who can help you will let you get back on course.

    Before crossing, setting out brings misfortune. It is favorable to cross the great river.

  5. Line 6 of 64 Transition

    You'll have success and tangible results. You can relax, have fun and share what you've achieved with others, but don't overdo it: any excess will lead to loss.

    There is sincere trust in drinking wine. No fault. If the head gets wet, trust loses its measure.

The trigrams

Below Water Mountain
Above Fire Thunder

The way back

62 Success in Small Matters → 64 Transition
lines 2, 3, and 6

Other transformations of Transition

Make your own cast

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

Toss the coins