The Meaning of Hexagram 49 in the I Ching

Hexagram 49: Revolution

Hexagram 49, known as Ge (革) in Chinese, represents the principle of revolution and fundamental change. This hexagram is composed of the lake trigram above and the fire trigram below, creating an image of fire beneath the lake, symbolizing how profound transformation can emerge from deep necessity.

Trigram Analysis

The upper trigram is Lake (☱), composed of one solid line above two broken lines, representing joy, openness, and reflection. The lower trigram is Fire (☲), composed of two solid lines with a broken line between them, representing clarity, brightness, and transformation.

When these trigrams combine, they create a metaphor for revolutionary change. Lake's receptive nature above fire's transformative power suggests how fundamental change must be both decisive and properly contained. This combination points to the importance of timing and proper authority in periods of revolution.

Symbolic Representations

In nature, Hexagram 49 corresponds to the process of molting or metamorphosis, where an organism must shed its old form to emerge anew. This natural metaphor represents how transformation requires both decisive action and proper timing.

The hexagram also represents the sage who recognizes when change is necessary and implements it with wisdom. This human dimension emphasizes the importance of proper authority and timing in periods of revolution.

Core Meanings and Attributes

The essence of Hexagram 49 is the power of necessary transformation. This manifests as:

The virtue of timeliness. The power of change. The wisdom of authority. The importance of necessity. The strength of renewal.

These attributes combine to create a powerful symbol of revolutionary change. The hexagram suggests a time when fundamental transformation is essential but must be properly timed and executed.

Line Meanings

Each line in Hexagram 49 represents a different aspect of revolution:

The first line shows being bound with yellow ox-hide, suggesting the initial restraint needed before change.

The second line indicates revolution comes on the appointed day, representing perfect timing.

The third line shows starting too quickly brings misfortune, warning against premature action.

The fourth line demonstrates regret disappears, indicating the right moment for action.

The fifth line shows the great man changes like a tiger, representing powerful but controlled transformation.

The sixth line reveals the superior person changes like a leopard, suggesting swift but precise change.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Hexagram 49 often appears when there is a need for fundamental change. It suggests a time when transformation is necessary but must be properly executed. The hexagram encourages:

Recognizing necessity. Timing action properly. Building authority. Understanding transformation. Cultivating wisdom.

Relationships with Other Hexagrams

Hexagram 49 has a special relationship with Hexagram 50 (The Cauldron), as they represent complementary aspects of transformation. While Hexagram 49 focuses on the revolutionary aspect of change, Hexagram 50 deals with the nourishing aspect of transformation.

The hexagram also relates to others that share its trigrams or themes of change and transformation, providing context for understanding different aspects of revolution.

Modern Interpretation

In contemporary usage, Hexagram 49 often appears in situations requiring fundamental change or transformation. It can indicate:

A time for decisive action. The need for proper authority. An opportunity for renewal. The importance of timing. A reminder of necessity.

Meditative Implications

As a meditation focus, Hexagram 49 offers insights into the nature of change and transformation. It invites contemplation of:

The process of revolution. The role of timing. The proper use of authority. The balance between action and restraint. The path of transformation.

Historical Context

In traditional Chinese thought, Hexagram 49 was associated with the concept of necessary change and proper timing. This connection emphasizes its relevance to both personal transformation and social revolution.

The hexagram was also linked to the importance of legitimate authority in times of change, highlighting how proper leadership serves both individual and collective transformation.

Summary

Hexagram 49 represents the principle of revolution, manifesting as the wisdom of timing and proper authority in periods of fundamental change. Its combination of lake and fire trigrams creates a powerful image of contained transformation, while its line meanings offer guidance on various aspects of revolutionary change.

Understanding this hexagram provides insights into the nature of transformation and the proper approach to implementing change, while its practical applications offer guidance for contemporary situations requiring fundamental renewal. Whether appearing in divination or serving as a focus for meditation, Hexagram 49 reminds us that true revolution emerges through proper timing and wise authority.

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Next Hexagram: Hexagram 50.

Previous Hexagram: Hexagram 48.