Hexagram 49
Revolution
革 (Gé)
Lake over Fire
Hexagram 49 in the I Ching represents revolution and radical transformation. This iching hexagram 49 symbolizes the necessary changes that occur when old structures no longer serve their purpose, embodying renewal, reform, and the courage to transform outdated systems into something new and vital.
Key Concepts
The Judgment
Hexagram 49 represents the power of revolutionary change and fundamental transformation. This iching hexagram 49 teaches us that there are times when gradual improvement is insufficient, and radical change becomes necessary. Like the molting of an animal or the changing of seasons, revolution is a natural process that clears away the old to make room for the new.
The Image
The image of fire beneath the lake represents two elements in fundamental opposition, creating the conditions for transformation. In iching hexagram 49, we learn that revolution requires careful timing and preparation, just as the ancient sages observed celestial patterns to establish the calendar and bring order to human affairs through understanding natural cycles.
Interpretation & Guidance
When hexagram 49 appears in your reading, it signals that the time for fundamental change has arrived. Old patterns, structures, or relationships that no longer serve you must be transformed or released. This is not a time for minor adjustments but for bold, decisive action that creates lasting transformation.
This hexagram encourages you to embrace necessary change with courage and conviction. However, revolution must be undertaken with careful preparation and proper timing. Ensure that you have built trust and credibility before implementing major changes, and that your motivations are pure and beneficial to all involved.
In all areas of life, iching hexagram 49 suggests that transformation is both necessary and inevitable. The key is to guide this change wisely rather than resist it. When revolution is conducted with integrity and proper timing, it brings renewal, growth, and ultimate success.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Nine at the Beginning (初九)
Bottom line - Yang
"Wrapped in the hide of a yellow cow."
The first line counsels restraint and patience. Though you may sense the need for change, the time is not yet right for revolution. Bind yourself to stability and wait for the proper moment. Premature action will lead to failure and regret.
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 time for action is approaching. When you have established credibility and trust, you may proceed with transformation. The conditions are becoming favorable, and revolution undertaken now will meet with success and support from others.
Nine in the Third Place (九三)
Third line - Yang
"Starting brings misfortune. Perseverance brings danger. When talk of revolution has gone the rounds three times, one may commit himself, and men will believe him."
A critical moment requiring careful deliberation. Hasty revolution will fail, but thorough preparation and repeated consideration of the need for change will build the necessary support. Ensure that transformation is truly necessary before proceeding, and build consensus through patient communication.
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 revolution. You have built sufficient trust and credibility, and the time is right for fundamental transformation. Major structural changes will be accepted and will bring positive results. Act with confidence and clarity of purpose.
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 revolution at its most powerful and legitimate. Your authority and integrity are unquestioned, allowing you to implement sweeping changes with confidence. Like the tiger's stripes that become more brilliant after molting, your transformation will be both dramatic and beautiful.
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 the major work of revolution is complete. Now is the time for refinement and consolidation rather than further radical change. Small adjustments and improvements are appropriate, but attempting another revolution would be excessive. Accept the transformation that has occurred and work to perfect it.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
In love, hexagram 49 represents the need for fundamental transformation in how you approach relationships. This may mean ending patterns that no longer serve you, redefining the terms of an existing relationship, or completely transforming your approach to romance and partnership.
For those in relationships, this hexagram suggests that significant changes are necessary for the partnership to survive and thrive. Both partners must be willing to release old patterns and create something new together. This transformation, though challenging, can lead to a deeper and more authentic connection.
The revolutionary energy of iching hexagram 49 in love means that superficial adjustments will not suffice. Be honest about what needs to change, communicate clearly with your partner, and have the courage to transform your relationship into something that truly serves both of you.
Career & Business (事业)
Professionally, hexagram 49 signals the need for major career changes or business transformation. This might involve changing careers entirely, restructuring your business, or revolutionizing your approach to work. The old ways are no longer effective, and bold action is required.
For entrepreneurs, this hexagram represents the perfect time for business pivots, rebranding, or fundamental changes in business model. Don't be afraid to abandon strategies that aren't working, even if you've invested significant time and resources. Revolutionary change brings new opportunities and renewed vitality.
In established careers, iching hexagram 49 suggests that you may need to completely reinvent your professional identity or seek entirely new opportunities. Trust that this transformation, though uncomfortable, will ultimately lead to greater fulfillment and success in your work life.
Health & Wellness (健康)
Health-wise, hexagram 49 represents the need for fundamental lifestyle changes rather than minor adjustments. If you've been experiencing health challenges, this hexagram calls for a complete transformation of your approach to wellness, diet, exercise, or stress management.
The revolutionary energy of this hexagram supports major health transformations such as overcoming addictions, adopting entirely new dietary approaches, or committing to significant lifestyle changes. Your body is ready to release old patterns and embrace new, healthier ways of being.
For those in good health, iching hexagram 49 encourages you to revolutionize your wellness practices before problems arise. Don't wait for a crisis to make necessary changes. Proactive transformation of your health habits will prevent future difficulties and enhance your vitality.
Financial Matters (财运)
Financially, hexagram 49 indicates the need for revolutionary changes in how you earn, manage, or invest money. Old financial strategies are no longer working, and fundamental transformation is required. This might involve changing careers for better income, restructuring debt, or completely revising your investment approach.
This hexagram favors those willing to take bold financial risks after careful preparation. Revolutionary changes in your financial life can lead to significant improvements, but timing and proper planning are essential. Ensure you have built a foundation of knowledge and support before making major financial transformations.
The key to financial success with iching hexagram 49 is recognizing when incremental changes are insufficient and having the courage to implement fundamental reforms. Release outdated financial patterns and embrace new approaches that align with your current circumstances and future goals.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
On a personal level, hexagram 49 represents a time of profound transformation and self-reinvention. You are being called to shed old identities, beliefs, and patterns that no longer serve your growth. This is a time for radical honesty about who you are and who you wish to become.
This hexagram encourages you to embrace the discomfort of fundamental change. Like a snake shedding its skin or a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, you must release your old form to reveal your new self. Trust in the natural process of transformation and have faith in your ability to recreate yourself.
The challenge of iching hexagram 49 is having the courage to let go of familiar patterns, even when the outcome is uncertain. True personal revolution requires releasing your attachment to who you have been and embracing the unknown potential of who you might become.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
The timing associated with hexagram 49 is critical and must be carefully considered. Revolution cannot be forced prematurely, nor should it be delayed when the moment arrives. Watch for signs that the old order is truly exhausted and that support for change has been established.
The best advice for those receiving this hexagram is to prepare thoroughly for transformation while remaining patient about timing. Build credibility, gather support, and ensure that your motivations are pure. When the right moment arrives, act decisively and completely.
Embrace the revolutionary energy of this time, but remember that successful transformation requires both courage and wisdom. Change what must be changed, but do so with integrity, proper preparation, and respect for the natural timing of transformation.