Hexagram 49
Revolution
革 (Gé)
Lake over Fire
Hexagram 49 represents fundamental transformation and revolutionary change. This hexagram symbolizes the molting of animals or the changing of seasons, embodying necessary transformation when old forms have outlived their usefulness. Like fire beneath water creating steam, opposing forces generate the energy needed for profound change. Revolution requires proper timing, clear vision, and the courage to release what no longer serves while embracing new possibilities. This hexagram teaches that transformation, though challenging, brings renewal and progress when undertaken with wisdom and careful preparation.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (卦辞)
Translation: "Revolution. On your own day you are believed. Supreme success, furthering through perseverance. Remorse disappears."
Hexagram 49 represents the profound power of revolutionary transformation when the time has come for fundamental change. This hexagram teaches that revolution is not undertaken lightly or impulsively, but only when existing structures have become obsolete and transformation is absolutely necessary. The phrase "on your own day you are believed" indicates that revolutionary change requires establishing credibility and trust before people will follow. Like the molting of an animal's skin or the changing of seasons, revolution is a natural process that cannot be forced prematurely but must unfold when conditions are ripe. Success comes through careful preparation, clear communication of vision, and unwavering commitment to necessary transformation.
The promise of supreme success indicates that when revolution is properly timed and executed with integrity, it brings renewal and progress that benefits all. However, this transformation must be grounded in perseverance and correct principles rather than mere desire for change. The disappearance of remorse suggests that when revolution is truly necessary and properly conducted, even initial doubts and resistance will fade as the benefits of transformation become evident. This hexagram reminds us that fundamental change, though challenging and sometimes painful, is essential for growth and adaptation to new circumstances.
The Image (大象传)
君子以治历明时。
Translation: "Fire in the lake: the image of Revolution. Thus the superior person sets the calendar in order and makes the seasons clear."
The image of fire within the lake represents two opposing elements in conflict, creating the conditions for transformation. Fire and water naturally oppose each other, yet their interaction produces steam and energy for change. This powerful symbolism teaches that revolution arises from the tension between incompatible forces that can no longer coexist in their current form. The superior person observes this natural principle and applies it to human affairs by establishing clear systems and making distinctions that bring order to chaos. Setting the calendar and clarifying the seasons represents the wisdom of recognizing natural cycles and working in harmony with the proper timing of transformation.
By organizing time and making seasons clear, the wise leader helps people understand when change is necessary and prepares them for inevitable transitions. This is not arbitrary change but transformation aligned with natural rhythms and cosmic order. The superior person recognizes that just as seasons must change for nature to thrive, human institutions and practices must evolve when they no longer serve their purpose. This hexagram teaches the importance of discernment in knowing when to preserve and when to transform.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Nine at the Beginning (初九)
Bottom line - Yang
"Bound with the hide of a yellow cow."
The first line counsels restraint and caution at the beginning of revolutionary times. Like being bound with strong leather, this is not yet the moment for dramatic action or transformation. The yellow cow represents stability and patience. You must wait and prepare thoroughly before initiating change. Premature revolution leads to failure and chaos. Strengthen your position, gather resources, and build support before attempting transformation. This period of restraint is necessary preparation for future action.
Six in the Second Place (六二)
Second line - Yin
"When one's own day comes, one may create revolution. Starting brings good fortune. No blame."
This line indicates that the proper time for revolution has arrived. You have established credibility and trust, and people are ready to follow your lead in transformation. When you act now with clear purpose and integrity, success is assured. The timing is favorable for initiating fundamental changes in your situation. Move forward with confidence, as your preparations have created the conditions for successful revolution. Your actions will be understood and supported because the necessity for change is evident to all.
Nine in the Third Place (九三)
Third line - Yang
"Starting brings misfortune. Perseverance brings danger. When talk of revolution has gone three times around, one may commit himself, and men will believe him."
The third line warns against hasty action even when change seems necessary. Rushing into revolution now brings misfortune and danger. Instead, deliberate carefully and discuss proposed changes thoroughly before committing to action. The phrase "three times around" indicates the need for extensive consultation, reflection, and refinement of plans. Only after careful consideration and building consensus should you proceed with transformation. Patience and thorough preparation build the trust and support essential for successful revolution.
Nine in the Fourth Place (九四)
Fourth line - Yang
"Remorse disappears. Men believe him. Changing the form of government brings good fortune."
This line represents the successful implementation of revolutionary change. You have earned trust and credibility, and your transformation of existing structures brings positive results. Doubts and resistance fade as the benefits of change become clear. This is an excellent position for reforming systems, restructuring organizations, or fundamentally altering your approach to important matters. Your revolution is grounded in integrity and serves the greater good, ensuring lasting success and support from others.
Nine in the Fifth Place (九五)
Fifth line - Yang
"The great man changes like a tiger. Even before he questions the oracle he is believed."
The ruler's line represents transformation at the highest level with complete authority and trust. Like a tiger whose stripes become more brilliant and distinct, your revolution brings clarity, power, and renewed vitality. Your credibility is so well-established that people trust your leadership without needing external validation or proof. This is the ideal position for implementing sweeping changes that transform entire systems. Your revolution is decisive, clear, and commands immediate respect and support from all who witness it.
Six at the Top (上六)
Top line - Yin
"The superior man changes like a panther. The inferior man molts in the face. Starting brings misfortune. To remain persevering brings good fortune."
The top line indicates that revolution has been completed and now requires consolidation. The superior person's transformation is graceful and refined like a panther's beautiful spots, while others make only superficial changes. This is not the time for further dramatic action but for maintaining the gains achieved through revolution. Consolidate your position, refine the changes you have made, and allow new structures to stabilize. Perseverance in maintaining transformation brings lasting success and prevents regression to old patterns.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
In matters of love, hexagram 49 indicates that fundamental transformation is necessary in your romantic life. This may mean revolutionizing your approach to relationships, transforming an existing partnership through honest communication and renewed commitment, or ending a relationship that no longer serves your growth. The key is recognizing when change is truly necessary rather than simply desirable. If your relationship has become stagnant or dysfunctional, this hexagram supports bold steps toward transformation. However, revolution in love requires both partners to be ready for change and willing to release old patterns that no longer work.
For those in committed relationships, this hexagram suggests the possibility of profound renewal through honest examination of what is not working and courageous willingness to change fundamental dynamics. This might involve renegotiating expectations, transforming communication patterns, or redefining the relationship structure itself. The revolution must be mutual and grounded in genuine desire for growth rather than blame or criticism. When both partners commit to transformation, relationships can emerge stronger and more authentic than before.
For singles, hexagram 49 indicates the need to revolutionize your approach to finding love. Old patterns and strategies that have not worked must be released. This may involve transforming your self-perception, changing the types of people you pursue, or fundamentally altering how you present yourself in romantic contexts. The revolution begins within, as you shed outdated beliefs about love and relationships. This inner transformation naturally attracts different opportunities and creates space for healthier, more fulfilling connections.
Career & Business (事业)
Professionally, hexagram 49 signals a time of revolutionary change in your career or business. This may manifest as a complete career change, fundamental restructuring of your business, or transformation of your professional approach and methods. The old ways of working are no longer effective, and dramatic change is necessary for continued success. This hexagram supports bold moves such as changing industries, starting a new venture, or completely reimagining your professional identity. However, such revolution requires careful planning, building credibility, and ensuring you have support before making dramatic changes.
For business owners and leaders, this hexagram indicates the need for organizational transformation. Existing structures, processes, or business models may have become obsolete and require fundamental revision. This is the time to implement sweeping changes that address root causes rather than symptoms. Revolutionary business transformation might involve adopting new technologies, entering new markets, restructuring teams, or completely redefining your value proposition. Success requires clear communication of vision, building consensus among stakeholders, and unwavering commitment to seeing transformation through to completion.
In established careers, hexagram 49 suggests that incremental improvement is no longer sufficient. You may need to revolutionize your skills, transform your professional network, or fundamentally change your career trajectory. This could mean pursuing advanced education, transitioning to leadership roles, or leveraging your expertise in entirely new ways. The key is recognizing when evolution has become necessary and having the courage to release comfortable but limiting professional identities. Revolutionary career change, though challenging, opens doors to opportunities that incremental progress cannot access.
Health & Wellness (健康)
In health matters, hexagram 49 indicates the need for revolutionary transformation of your approach to wellness. This is not about minor adjustments but fundamental changes to diet, exercise, stress management, or lifestyle habits. If current health practices are not producing desired results, this hexagram supports dramatic shifts in your wellness strategy. This might involve adopting a completely new dietary philosophy, transforming your relationship with physical activity, or revolutionizing how you manage mental and emotional health. The key is recognizing that incremental changes are insufficient and bold transformation is necessary.
For those facing health challenges, this hexagram suggests that conventional approaches may need to be supplemented or replaced with alternative methods. Revolutionary health transformation might involve seeking new practitioners, exploring integrative medicine, or fundamentally changing your understanding of what creates wellness. This is not about abandoning medical advice but about being open to transformative approaches that address root causes rather than merely managing symptoms. Successful health revolution requires commitment to sustained change rather than temporary fixes.
Mental and emotional wellness may also require revolutionary transformation. Old coping mechanisms, thought patterns, or emotional habits that no longer serve you must be released. This hexagram supports deep therapeutic work, transformative practices like meditation or mindfulness, or fundamental shifts in how you relate to stress and emotions. The revolution in mental health is often the most challenging but also the most rewarding, as it creates the foundation for lasting wellness in all areas of life.
Financial Matters (财运)
Financially, hexagram 49 indicates the need for revolutionary transformation of your relationship with money and wealth creation. Old financial strategies, spending patterns, or income sources may have become obsolete and require fundamental change. This hexagram supports bold financial moves such as changing careers for better income potential, revolutionizing investment strategies, or completely restructuring your financial life. However, financial revolution requires careful planning and should not be undertaken impulsively. Build knowledge, seek expert guidance, and ensure you have adequate reserves before making dramatic financial changes.
For those struggling financially, this hexagram suggests that incremental budgeting adjustments are insufficient. Revolutionary change in how you earn, save, invest, or spend money is necessary. This might involve developing new income streams, fundamentally changing your career to increase earning potential, or transforming your relationship with consumption and material possessions. Financial revolution often requires releasing limiting beliefs about money and adopting entirely new frameworks for understanding wealth. The transformation may be challenging initially but creates the foundation for lasting financial security.
For investors and business owners, hexagram 49 indicates that market conditions or personal circumstances require revolutionary changes to financial strategy. This might involve divesting from declining sectors, investing in emerging opportunities, or fundamentally restructuring your portfolio or business finances. Revolutionary financial transformation requires courage to release what is familiar but no longer profitable and embrace new approaches that align with current realities. Success comes from recognizing when transformation is necessary and acting decisively while managing risk appropriately.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
Hexagram 49 represents a profound opportunity for revolutionary personal transformation. This is a time when fundamental aspects of your identity, beliefs, or life approach require complete transformation rather than gradual evolution. You may be called to release old self-concepts, transform core beliefs that limit you, or revolutionize how you engage with life itself. This deep personal revolution is challenging because it requires letting go of familiar aspects of yourself, even those that once served you well but have now become constraints. The molting process is uncomfortable but necessary for growth into your next stage of development.
Revolutionary personal growth often involves confronting and transforming shadow aspects of yourself that you have long avoided or denied. This might require deep therapeutic work, spiritual practices that facilitate transformation, or life experiences that force you to see yourself and the world differently. The revolution in consciousness that this hexagram represents cannot be achieved through intellectual understanding alone but requires experiential transformation that changes you at the deepest levels. This process may involve periods of confusion or disorientation as old structures dissolve before new ones fully form.
The gift of this hexagram is the promise that revolutionary personal transformation, though challenging, leads to authentic liberation and renewed vitality. Like a snake shedding its skin or a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, you emerge from this process fundamentally changed and more aligned with your true nature. The key is surrendering to the transformation rather than resisting it, trusting that what you release was meant to be outgrown and what emerges will be more authentic and powerful than what came before.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
The timing of hexagram 49 indicates that revolutionary change is either imminent or already underway. This is not a period for maintaining the status quo or making incremental adjustments. The universe is calling for fundamental transformation in key areas of your life. However, successful revolution requires proper timing and preparation. Do not rush into dramatic changes impulsively, but also do not delay when the time for transformation has clearly arrived. Build credibility, gather support, and ensure you have the resources and knowledge necessary for successful revolution before taking irreversible steps.
The advice of this hexagram is to embrace necessary transformation with courage while maintaining wisdom and integrity throughout the process. Revolutionary change should serve the greater good rather than merely personal ambition or desire for novelty. Communicate your vision clearly, involve others in the transformation process, and remain committed to seeing changes through to completion. Be prepared for resistance from those comfortable with existing structures, but do not let opposition deter you from necessary transformation. Your revolution must be grounded in clear principles and genuine necessity rather than whim or impulse.
Remember that revolution is not an end in itself but a means to renewal and progress. Once transformation is achieved, consolidate your gains and allow new structures to stabilize before initiating further changes. The goal is not constant revolution but timely transformation when existing forms have outlived their usefulness. Trust in the natural cycles of growth, maturity, decline, and renewal. When you align your actions with these cosmic rhythms and act with integrity and wisdom, revolutionary transformation brings lasting benefits and opens pathways to possibilities that were previously inaccessible.