49. Transformation to 4. Inexperience

Changing lines

1. Line 1

   The first line, dynamic, shows its subject as if he were bound with the skin of a yellow ox. Line one at the bottom of the figure may be taken as denoting change made at too early a period. He has no proper correlate or helper above, hence he is represented as tied up and unable to take any action.

2. Line 2

   The second line, magnetic, shows its subject making her changes after some time has passed. Action taken will be fortunate. There will be no error. Line two is magnetic in her correct and central place in the center of the trigram of Clarity. Her proper correlate is the dynamic fifth line ruler. Let her take action in the way of change.

3. Line 3

   The third line, dynamic, shows that action taken by its subject will be evil. Though he be firm and correct, his position is perilous. If the changes he contemplates have been three times fully discussed, he will be believed. The symbolism of line three is twofold. The line is dynamic and in his correct position, but has passed the center of the lower trigram of Clarity and is on an outward verge. These conditions may dispose him to reckless and violent changes which would be bad. But if he acts with caution and due deliberation he may take action, and he will be believed in.

4. Line 4

   The fourth line, dynamic, shows occasion for repentance disappearing from its subject. Let him be believed in, and though he changes the existing ordinances, there will be good fortune. Line four is dynamic, but in the place of a magnetic line. This might vitiate any change he makes, but other conditions suggest a contrary effect: the line has passed from the lower trigram into the upper where water and fire come into contact. [e.g., Fire boils water, producing steam to do work. Ed. ] In addition, the fourth place is that of the minister immediately below the ruler's seat. These considerations all demand action in harmony with the idea of change. Therefore, if he has secured the general confidence he can proceed with the greatest of changes -- even to change the dynasty -- with good results.

5. Line 5

   The fifth line, dynamic, shows the great man producing his changes as the tiger does when he changes his stripes. Before he divines and proceeds to action, faith has been reposed in him. Line five has every quality proper to the lord of the hexagram, and his action will be in every way beneficial. He is symbolized by the tiger. The changes he makes are symbolized by the bright stripes of the tiger when it has just molted its coat.

6. Line 6

   The sixth line, magnetic, shows the superior man producing his changes as the leopard does when he changes his spots, while inferior men change their faces and show obedience. To go forward now would lead to evil, but there will be good fortune in abiding firm and correct. Line six is magnetic, but still penetrated with the spirit of the hexagram. He is a superior man, inferior only to the great man immediately below him in line five. Any changes he makes will be subordinate only to those of the ruler. If he be an inferior man, he will be compliant and submissive. The lesson for him is to abide firm and correct without taking unilateral action.

The present judgment

Metamorphosis is believed in only after it has been accomplished. Firm correctness abolishes regret and brings successful progress.

The later judgment

Inexperience means progress and success. I do not seek the inexperienced youth, but he seeks me. When he shows the sincerity proper for divination, I instruct him. If he asks two or three times, that is troublesome, and I do not instruct the troublesome. Firm correctness brings advantage.

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