The 50th Hexagram of the I Ching: Dǐng (鼎)
The Symbolic Meaning of the Dǐng Hexagram: Fire and Wind
The Dǐng hexagram is formed by the combination of two different hexagrams: Xùn (巽) below and Lí (离) above. Lí represents fire, and Xùn represents wind, symbolizing a burning process—just like cooking food over a fire, which transforms raw ingredients into something nourishing. This image implies the idea of transformation, renewing the old and bringing in the new. The Dǐng (鼎) itself is a large, three-legged cauldron, symbolizing stability, strength, and a treasured possession. It represents a time when resources are plentiful and challenges have been overcome. Based on this, it is a good time for reforms and the development of one’s career.
Interpretation from Duàn Yì Tiānjī (断易天机)
The Dǐng hexagram, with Lí above and Xùn below, is associated with the Lí Palace, the second hexagram of the second series in the I Ching. The Dǐng symbolizes stability, harmony, and beauty, indicating positive developments in most aspects, though it may not be favorable for lawsuits or seeking official positions.
Interpretation from Shao Yong (北宋易学家邵雍)
This hexagram suggests that success will be achieved despite past failures, and that good things will come through cooperation and the assistance of others. Success in this period is assured, and there are favorable conditions for forming partnerships or working with others.
Interpretation from Fu Peirong (台湾国学大儒傅佩荣)
- Timing: Advancement in status and recognition will come naturally, with honor and success.
- Financial Prospects: Gains will come effortlessly, with profits accumulating with little effort.
- Home and Family: Watch out for potential fire hazards; this is a time for harmony and support from family.
- Health: Liver issues may arise, with rising internal heat—focus on restoring balance through proper adjustments.
Traditional Interpretation of the Dǐng Hexagram
The Dǐng hexagram consists of Xùn (wind) below and Lí (fire) above, symbolizing the process of cooking—transforming raw into cooked, as well as removing the old and bringing in the new. The Dǐng, as a three-legged cauldron, is a symbol of stability and importance, signifying a moment of abundance and the removal of difficulties. This hexagram suggests a time when one is ready for reform and the development of their career.
Great Image (Dà Xiàng): The image of Lí (fire) above Xùn (wind) represents the act of cooking and preparation, which is symbolic of the Dǐng being used to replace the old with the new, as well as making improvements and adjustments.
Fortune: The time is still favorable, and the conditions for success are right. However, things should not be delayed, and one must remain cautious of potential legal issues or disputes.
Career: You have the conditions to embark on new ventures and develop your career. You are sharp, perceptive, and calm. It is essential to maintain a proper and ethical approach in all interactions. Be disciplined and cautious in your actions. By partnering with those who are talented and virtuous, and avoiding reckless decisions, you will achieve success.
Business: After some effort, you are now in a position to successfully expand your business activities. Any obstacles can be overcome. If you adhere to business ethics and engage in fair competition, your business can thrive. However, if you become overly complacent or waste resources, it may lead to failure.
Reputation: Focus on accumulating achievements and cultivating virtue. Be strict with yourself, avoid conflicts, and maintain a steady progress. When others recognize your talents, your future will be bright.
Love and Relationships: Your personal circumstances are favorable, and things should go smoothly. However, make sure your expectations are realistic and grounded.
Decision Making: You possess sharp intelligence, quick reactions, and the ability to adapt swiftly to changing circumstances. Your future holds great promise. Even if you are not immediately recognized or face temporary setbacks, you will ultimately realize your ambitions.
The Dǐng hexagram signifies a time of transformation, abundance, and stability. The symbolism of the three-legged cauldron and the cooking process represents a balance between the old and the new, the steady accumulation of resources, and the importance of proper timing and ethics. This hexagram encourages reform and progress in both personal and professional life, but warns against complacency and unnecessary risks. Success is attainable through collaboration, discipline, and the steady removal of obstacles.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Dǐng Hexagram
Line Text: Chū Liù (初六): Dǐng diān zhǐ, lì chū pǐ; dé qiè yǐ qí zi wú jiù.
The meaning of this line is that when the Dǐng (鼎), a cooking vessel, is turned upside down, it becomes beneficial to pour out the accumulated impurities inside. The marriage to a concubine and having a child from her can help stabilize the situation and lead to no misfortune.
Interpretation:
When the Dǐng turns upside down, it allows the impurities to be removed. Similarly, marrying a concubine and having a child can be a step toward establishing stability. However, it also reminds us that transformations or disruptions are necessary to rid oneself of accumulated problems and make progress.
The key takeaways from this line are:
- When things seem upside down, they might lead to unexpected benefits and success.
- A child born from a concubine can still bring stability and no harm will come from it.
- Chī (吃) [eating] and Yíng (营) [working] may come together; do not fear, as things will fall into place.
The Change of the First Line of Dǐng
When the Chū Liù (初六) line changes, it becomes Hexagram 14: Fire over Heaven (火天大有). This hexagram is formed by Li (火, fire) above and Qián (乾, heaven) below. The fire shines in the sky, illuminating all things and gaining the allegiance of all. This symbol represents great success achieved by following the natural order and timing.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Dǐng Hexagram
Line Text: Jiǔ Èr (九二): Dǐng yǒu shí; wǒ chóu yǒu jí, bù wǒ néng jí, jí.
The meaning of this line is that the Dǐng is full of nourishing food, which might attract jealousy from enemies. However, these enemies are unable to harm the person, and the outcome is still fortunate.
Interpretation:
The Dǐng is filled with the fruits of one’s labor, attracting envy and jealousy. While others may wish to cause harm, they are ultimately powerless to do so. As long as one remains cautious, they will experience good fortune.
The key takeaways from this line are:
- Despite facing opposition and envy, remain calm and maintain your position.
- Be aware of potential distractions or negative emotions (like irritation or jealousy).
- Keeping a balanced approach will lead to success, as others’ ill intentions will not prevail.
The Change of the Second Line of Dǐng
When the Jiǔ Èr (九二) line changes, it becomes Hexagram 56: Fire on the Mountain (火山旅). This hexagram is formed by Li (fire) above and Gèn (艮, mountain) below. In this case, fire burns on the mountain without stopping, symbolizing the journey of travelers who are rushing to complete their tasks. This hexagram reflects urgency, restlessness, and a need to persist despite obstacles.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Dǐng Hexagram
Line Text: Jiǔ Sān (九三): Dǐng ěr gé, qí xíng sāi, zhì gāo bù shí; fāng yǔ kuī huǐ, zhōng jí.
The meaning of this line is that the Dǐng‘s ears are damaged, preventing it from being moved, and the delicious pheasant soup inside cannot be enjoyed. It is only when the balance of yin and yang is restored, and the rains arrive, that regret can be alleviated, and eventually, good fortune will follow.
Interpretation:
The Dǐng is damaged, and for a time, things cannot move forward. The sweetness that was once available (represented by pheasant soup) is now out of reach. However, patience and the right conditions (symbolized by rain) will eventually restore balance, and a positive outcome will follow.
The key takeaways from this line are:
- When faced with obstacles, be patient and wait for the right time.
- Do not rush forward when conditions are not yet favorable.
- Regret or dissatisfaction can be resolved with time and persistence, leading to eventual success.
The Change of the Third Line of Dǐng
When the Jiǔ Sān (九三) line changes, it becomes Hexagram 64: Fire and Water Not Yet Completed (火水未济). This hexagram consists of Li (fire) above and Kǎn (坎, water) below. The fire presses down on the water, and although the effort to put out the fire has begun, it is not yet complete. This symbolizes that although progress has been made, it is not the end yet, and further action will be needed. It is a reminder that completion takes time and patience.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Dǐng Hexagram
Line Text: Jiǔ Sì (九四): Dǐng zhē zú, fù gōng liàn, qí xíng wò, xiōng.
This line’s meaning is that when the Dǐng is mishandled and its foot is broken, the food inside is spilled, causing embarrassment for the noble figure (gōng) involved. The situation is unfortunate and inauspicious.
Interpretation:
The line reflects a misstep or failure in handling a significant responsibility. The Dǐng (the vessel) represents something valuable, but when it is damaged, it leads to a loss of resources (like spilling the food). The noble figure’s embarrassment symbolizes a loss of face or reputation. The key lesson here is to avoid overreaching and to take care not to mishandle important matters.
The key takeaways from this line are:
- When one is not capable of handling heavy responsibilities, mistakes can lead to bad outcomes.
- Ambition without the strength to back it up can lead to failure.
- Efforts to reform or change things without preparation or caution can result in setbacks.
The Change of the Fourth Line of Dǐng
When the Jiǔ Sì (九四) line changes, it becomes Hexagram 18: Mountain Wind Gu (山风蛊). This hexagram is formed by Xùn (巽, wind) below and Gèn (艮, mountain) above. The symbol of Gu (蛊), meaning “to stir up” or “to disturb,” suggests corruption or decay that has taken root over time. In the context of this hexagram, it represents the need to address stagnation and corruption, urging reform and renewal to avoid further crisis.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Dǐng Hexagram
Line Text: Liù Wǔ (六五): Dǐng huáng ěr jīn xuán, lì zhēn.
The meaning of this line is that the ears of the Dǐng are positioned appropriately, and the addition of a sturdy handle ensures stability when carrying the vessel, signifying that everything is in its proper place and balanced, leading to a successful outcome.
Interpretation:
The Dǐng is properly equipped and balanced, which suggests a time of stability and correctness. With the right preparation, any undertaking will proceed smoothly and successfully. This line symbolizes a time of harmony, success, and favorable conditions.
The key takeaways from this line are:
- Stability and proper alignment lead to success.
- When the foundation is solid and the right tools are in place, achievements are easily within reach.
- Harmony and balance in one’s endeavors lead to favorable outcomes.
The Change of the Fifth Line of Dǐng
When the Liù Wǔ (六五) line changes, it becomes Hexagram 44: Heaven Wind Gou (天风姤). This hexagram is formed by Qián (乾, heaven) above and Xùn (巽, wind) below. The wind blows through heaven, symbolizing the arrival of something new or unexpected. However, it also warns that Yin and Yang forces cannot stay in harmony forever, as imbalance will eventually cause disruption. The energy of this hexagram is dynamic, representing opportunities but also signaling that things must be handled carefully.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Dǐng Hexagram
Line Text: Shàng Jiǔ (上九): Dǐng yù xuán, dà jí, wú bù lì.
The meaning of this line is that the Dǐng is equipped with a jade handle, making it extremely auspicious and assuring that no harm will come from this arrangement.
Interpretation:
This line speaks of a time when the best preparations are in place, and fortune favors the person. Just as the Dǐng is perfectly balanced with a jade handle, so too are the person’s actions aligned with favorable outcomes. It suggests that with the right approach, one’s endeavors will succeed, and their fortunes will be greatly enhanced.
The key takeaways from this line are:
- Proper preparation and a good foundation will lead to success.
- Fortune is aligned with your efforts, and everything is in harmony.
- With the right approach, everything will go smoothly and positively.
The Change of the Sixth Line of Dǐng
When the Shàng Jiǔ (上九) line changes, it becomes Hexagram 32: Thunder Wind Heng (雷风恒). This hexagram is formed by Zhèn (震, thunder) below and Xùn (巽, wind) above. It suggests a time of constant movement, where firmness and flexibility work together to create harmony. This hexagram reflects the idea of persistence and the ability to maintain stability through change.