The 64 hexagrams of I Ching are binary lines arranged in a specific sequence. The first hexagram consists of six solid lines, and then we get all possible combinations of solid and broken lines, until reaching all broken lines in hexagram 64. After reading this article you will know what a solid/broken line is, how three lines become a trigram, two trigrams a hexagram, and then how the hexagrams are arranged as a whole in the legendary I Ching.
I Ching Lines are Binary Code
The binary system is at the core of this arrangement. In binary code, the digits are represented by 0s and 1s, the simplest yin and yang expressions. In I Ching, each of the 64 hexagrams is made up of six lines. A line is either solid (yang) or broken (yin). This binary representation allows for 64 possible combinations, hence the 64 hexagrams.
Each Hexagram is Two Trigrams
Each hexagram is built from the ground up and is formed by combining two trigrams: the lower trigram and the upper trigram. Each trigram consists, as the name implies, of three lines. The lower trigram, placed at the bottom of the hexagram, represents the inner or foundational aspects of the situation. In contrast, the upper trigram, positioned at the top, symbolizes the outer or developing aspects. The combination of these two trigrams gives rise to a specific hexagram. The hexagram conveys a unique set of circumstances, and energies, and can offer insight and guidance in a reading.
Here’s a more detailed explanation of the significance of the lower and upper trigrams:
The Lower Trigram:
- The lower trigram represents the internal or inner aspects of the situation or individual. It relates to the underlying influences, motivations, and attitudes that form the basis of the current situation.
- This trigram signifies the individual’s or situation’s inherent qualities, character, and starting point, offering insights into their fundamental nature and predispositions.
- In a reading, the lower trigram provides a context for understanding the roots or origins of the situation and offers guidance on how to approach it from within.
The Upper Trigram:
- The upper trigram signifies the external or outward manifestations of the situation or individual. It relates to the developing or unfolding aspects of the current circumstances.
- This trigram represents the changes, influences, and potential outcomes emerging or becoming visible in the situation.
- In a reading, the upper trigram offers insights into how the situation is evolving, the challenges and opportunities ahead, and how the individual or situation is interacting with the external environment.
The 8 Trigrams are Elements
In total, there are 8 trigrams that serve as the building blocks for the 64 hexagrams. Each trigram represents a specific natural element, energy, or concept. Here are the eight trigrams along with their names, meanings, and representations:
- ☰ Qian (乾) – The Creative
Meaning: Qian represents the primal, creative force of the universe. It symbolizes strength, power, and leadership. It embodies the heavens, signifying the active, masculine, and yang energy. - ☱ Dui (兌) – The Joyous, Lake
Meaning: Dui embodies joy, happiness, and pleasure. It represents social interactions, celebrations, and gatherings. It symbolizes the receptive, feminine, and yin energy. - ☲ Li (離) – The Clinging, Fire
Meaning: Li signifies the radiance and brilliance of fire. It represents illumination, warmth, and transformation. It embodies clarity, enlightenment, and spiritual growth. - ☳ Zhen (震) – The Arousing, Thunder
Meaning: Zhen symbolizes the powerful and electrifying energy of thunder. It represents awakening, movement, and action. It embodies the stirring and transformative power of thunder. - ☵ Kan (坎) – The Abysmal, Water
Meaning: Kan represents the depths of water, symbolizing danger, challenges, and the unknown. It embodies the flowing, adaptable, and flexible nature of water. - ☶ Gen (艮) – Keeping Still, Mountain
Meaning: Gen signifies the solid and stable presence of a mountain. It represents stillness, contemplation, and restraint. It embodies the strength, reliability, and endurance of a mountain. - ☷ Kun (坤) – The Receptive, Earth
Meaning: Kun embodies the nurturing and supportive qualities of the Earth. It symbolizes receptivity, patience, and motherly love. It represents the yin energy, providing a foundation for growth. - ☴ Xun (巽) – The Gentle, Wind
Meaning: Xun signifies the gentle and penetrating qualities of the wind. It represents flexibility, adaptability, and communication. It embodies the subtle yet influential nature of the wind.
The King Wen Sequence
The most famous ordering of hexagrams is the King Wen sequence, attributed to King Wen of the Zhou Dynasty. According to legend, King Wen is said to have received divine inspiration in his dreams, leading to the creation of the sequence. This sequence is the one that is used to arrange the hexagrams in the I Ching.
Complementary Pairs
The King Wen sequence is organized in complementary pairs of hexagrams. Each hexagram is followed by its mirroring partner, which has the same lines but is turned upside down. These complementary hexagrams reflect contrasting energies or situations. Some of the 64 hexagrams do not change when being turned upside down. In these instances, the partner is created by switching the lines; broken becomes unbroken, and yang becomes yin.
The Book of Changes
The partnering in I Ching, also called the Book of Changes, is logical and reflects the interplay between yin and yang. The King Wen sequence as a whole though, the arrangement of the pairs, appears illogical. The reason for its arrangement remains unknown. The I Ching system seems to be more akin to telling a story. It reminds me of tarot, which moves from the innocent Fool to the encompassing World. This story in the Book of Changes explores life phases, and can give an understanding of the movement, or patterns, of the universe.
An Overview of the 64 Hexagrams
Each hexagram represents a unique stage or aspect of the cosmic journey. Here’s a brief overview of the story:
Hexagram 1 – The Creative (乾 qián): The story begins with “The Creative,” representing the birth of the universe and the primal force that initiated all existence.
Hexagram 2 – The Receptive (坤 kūn): Following the creative force, “The Receptive” embodies the receptive and nurturing aspect, like Earth that welcomes and sustains life.
Hexagram 3 – Difficulty at the Beginning (屯 chún): The journey encounters challenges and obstacles, signifying the initial struggles of existence.
Hexagram 4 – Youthful Folly (蒙 méng): Representing youthful naivety and inexperience, where the journeyers are learning the rules of life.
Hexagram 5 – Waiting (需 xū): A time of patience and contemplation, akin to the elements waiting to evolve into something more complex.
Hexagram 6 – Conflict (訟 sòng): As complexity arises, conflicts and tensions emerge, symbolizing the dynamic interplay of elemental forces.
Hexagram 7 – The Army (師 shī): The elements organize themselves, forming an army of forces ready for action and transformation.
Hexagram 8 – Holding Together (比 bǐ): Elements come together, representing cohesion and unity, much like the early stages of matter formation.
Hexagram 9 – Small Accumulating (小畜 xiǎo chù): Growth and accumulation are observed, as the elements gather and build upon each other.
Hexagram 10 – Treading (履 lǚ): Progress and movement, akin to the transformation of elements in a dynamic world.
Hexagram 11 – Peace (泰 tài): Harmony between heaven and earth is established. There is balance, flourishing, and the promise of a golden age where all things thrive.
Hexagram 12 – Standstill (否 pǐ): Peace gives way to stagnation. Communication breaks down, and the forces of light are obstructed. A time of necessary withdrawal.
Hexagram 13 – Fellowship with Men (同人 tóng rén): In isolation, the need for community emerges. People come together around shared ideals, forming spiritual and social bonds.
Hexagram 14 – Great Possession (大有 dà yǒu): Through unity, great abundance is attained. This is not just material wealth, but a richness of spirit and potential.
Hexagram 15 – Modesty (謙 qiān): With abundance comes the reminder of humility. True power is expressed through restraint and groundedness.
Hexagram 16 – Enthusiasm (豫 yù): Inspired by harmony and modesty, the collective moves forward with joyful energy and shared purpose.
Hexagram 17 – Following (隨 suí): The path now requires alignment with a greater flow. By yielding to what is right, the journey advances smoothly.
Hexagram 18 – Work on What Has Been Spoiled (蠱 gǔ): Old patterns and decay are confronted. It is time to cleanse, repair, and realign with truth.
Hexagram 19 – Approach (臨 lín): With clarity restored, new opportunities draw near. This is a moment of positive influence and leadership guided by benevolence.
Hexagram 20 – Contemplation (觀 guān): The journey pauses for reflection. By observing the broader patterns, wisdom and insight are gained.
Hexagram 21 – Biting Through (噬嗑 shì kè): Obstacles and corruption must be addressed directly. This is a time for decisive action and clear judgment to restore order.
Hexagram 22 – Grace (賁 bì): Once clarity is established, beauty can arise. Grace refines expression, illuminating the deeper harmony beneath form.
Hexagram 23 – Splitting Apart (剝 bō): When outer beauty masks inner decay, disintegration occurs. What is no longer aligned must fall away.
Hexagram 24 – Return (復 fù): After loss, the return begins. Like the turning of seasons, life regenerates from within. A time of quiet reawakening.
Hexagram 25 – Innocence (無妄 wú wàng): The return to source brings purity. Action free from ulterior motives aligns with natural law.
Hexagram 26 – Great Taming (大畜 dà chù): Powerful energies must be restrained and cultivated. Through inner discipline, wisdom and strength are stored.
Hexagram 27 – Nourishment (頤 yí): What we feed—both physically and spiritually—shapes our path. True nourishment comes from aligned values and speech.
Hexagram 28 – Great Exceeding (大過 dà guò): A pivotal moment arises when burdens are too great to bear. Radical transformation or collapse looms. Courage is needed.
Hexagram 29 – The Abysmal (坎 kǎn): The journey enters deep water. Danger and uncertainty must be navigated with faith, adaptability, and inner clarity.
Hexagram 30 – Clarity (離 lí): From darkness, light is kindled. Awareness burns bright, revealing truth and guiding the way forward like fire illuminating the path.
Hexagram 31 – Influence (咸 xián): Mutual attraction stirs movement. Subtle energies begin to affect one another—this is the realm of resonance, emotion, and magnetism.
Hexagram 32 – Duration (恆 héng): What was sparked must be sustained. Enduring commitment and rhythm establish stability in both relationships and actions.
Hexagram 33 – Retreat (遯 dùn): To preserve integrity, strategic withdrawal is needed. Not all battles are worth fighting; wisdom lies in timing and restraint.
Hexagram 34 – Great Power (大壯 dà zhuàng): Power returns, strong and direct. Yet true strength is tempered by awareness—force without wisdom leads to imbalance.
Hexagram 35 – Progress (晉 jìn): Like the sun rising above the horizon, expansion and advancement become possible. This is a time of visible growth and recognition.
Hexagram 36 – Darkening of the Light (明夷 míng yí): When truth is endangered, it must go underground. Protect the inner flame in times of obscurity and deception.
Hexagram 37 – The Family (家人 jiā rén): The foundation of society is built through harmony in the home. Clear roles, respect, and care create inner and outer order.
Hexagram 38 – Opposition (睽 kuí): Differences emerge, revealing contrast and tension. Yet through divergence, deeper understanding and individuality can arise.
Hexagram 39 – Obstruction (蹇 jiǎn): Progress is blocked. Challenges force a change of direction or attitude—inviting inner resourcefulness and humility.
Hexagram 40 – Liberation (解 xiè): Release comes after tension. A burden is lifted, and there is freedom to move forward again with renewed clarity.
Hexagram 41 – Decrease (損 sǔn): Letting go becomes necessary. By willingly simplifying or sacrificing, inner strength and clarity grow.
Hexagram 42 – Increase (益 yì): After decrease, blessings flow in. Generosity and right timing bring expansion and benefit for all.
Hexagram 43 – Breakthrough (夬 guài): A decisive stand must be taken. Truth must emerge clearly and powerfully to dispel what is false or stagnant.
Hexagram 44 – Coming to Meet (姤 gòu): Sudden encounters stir potent forces. When the unexpected appears, awareness and boundaries are essential.
Hexagram 45 – Gathering Together (萃 cuì): People are drawn together by shared purpose. Collective intention gains momentum—this is a time of unification.
Hexagram 46 – Pushing Upward (升 shēng): Steady, determined growth leads upward. Like a plant reaching for the light, perseverance brings elevation.
Hexagram 47 – Oppression (困 kùn): Confinement, exhaustion, and external pressure weigh heavy. Yet the heart can find light even in the darkest places.
Hexagram 48 – The Well (井 jǐng): A timeless source of nourishment and wisdom. When the inner well is kept clear, it sustains and revitalizes all.
Hexagram 49 – Revolution (革 gé): Deep transformation is required. Old systems must be shed to make space for truth. It is a time of courageous change.
Hexagram 50 – The Cauldron (鼎 dǐng): The alchemical vessel of spiritual evolution. What was broken is now refined. Transformation leads to sacred purpose.
Hexagram 51 – The Arousing (震 zhèn): Sudden shock awakens the soul. Thunder shakes the foundations, stirring renewal, courage, and clarity.
Hexagram 52 – Keeping Still (艮 gèn): After movement, stillness. Like a mountain unmoved, inner tranquility anchors the spirit amid outer change.
Hexagram 53 – Gradual Progress (漸 jiàn): True evolution unfolds step by step. Like a tree growing slowly, steady development leads to lasting transformation.
Hexagram 54 – The Marrying Maiden (歸妹 guī mèi): A situation of imbalance calls for grace and awareness. One must navigate limitations within larger structures.
Hexagram 55 – Abundance (豐 fēng): A radiant fullness arrives—abundance of spirit, vision, and manifestation. Yet it shines brightest just before it wanes.
Hexagram 56 – The Wanderer (旅 lǚ): The traveler moves through unfamiliar lands. Without attachment, wisdom is gained through experience and perspective.
Hexagram 57 – The Gentle (巽 xùn): Subtle influence and persistent presence guide the way. Like the wind, soft power penetrates and transforms.
Hexagram 58 – Joy (兌 duì): True joy comes not from indulgence, but from openness and clarity of heart. Connection and expression flow freely.
Hexagram 59 – Dispersion (渙 huàn): Hardness dissolves. Barriers melt. The spirit becomes fluid again, uniting what was scattered.
Hexagram 60 – Limitation (節 jié): After expansion, structure is required. Healthy boundaries define the path and preserve what matters most.
Hexagram 61 – Inner Truth (中孚 zhōng fú): The heart becomes transparent. Sincerity and attunement open the way to deep trust and alignment with the unseen.
Hexagram 62 – Small Exceeding (小過 xiǎo guò): A time to act with humility. Small, precise efforts have great impact—do not overreach.
Hexagram 63 – After Completion (既濟 jì jì): The pattern is complete—for a moment. Things are in order, yet vigilance is needed to maintain harmony.
Hexagram 64 – Before Completion (未濟 wèi jì): The journey ends as it began—in transition. The cycle prepares to restart. Completion is near, yet not final. All remains in motion.
Conclusion: The Eternal Spiral of Change
The story of the elements, as revealed through the 64 hexagrams of the I Ching, invites us into a sacred dance of creation, transformation, challenge, and return. Each hexagram is a living archetype, carrying a signature vibration within the grand unfolding of life.
Together, they form a map of movement through time and spirit: from the birth of the cosmos to the refinement of the soul, from chaos to clarity, from youth to wisdom. This is not a spiraling tale—ever deepening, ever circling—where endings become new beginnings and the journey never truly stops.
To walk the path of the I Ching is to listen deeply to the rhythm of the Tao, to honor the invisible threads that weave heaven and earth, and to recognize that within each phase of life, the whole is already present.
64 Hexagrams FAQ: Summary, Human Design & Gene Keys
Q: What are the 64 hexagrams?
The 64 hexagrams originate from the I Ching. They are symbolic figures composed of six lines, either broken (yin) or unbroken (yang). Each hexagram reflects a particular state or a movement of energy within nature and life.
Q: How are the 64 hexagrams used in divination?
A: In divination, the hexagrams are cast or selected through methods like coin tossing or yarrow stalk manipulation. The resulting hexagram is then interpreted to provide guidance on personal or collective matters.
Q: What is the significance of yin and yang lines in a hexagram?
A: Yin and yang lines represent the dynamic forces of receptivity and activity, darkness and light, or inner and outer movements.
Q: How can I gain insights from the 64 hexagrams in daily life?
A: You can interpret the hexagrams through meditation or reflection on their meanings. Let them reveal the energies at play, helping you gain greater clarity, awareness, and understanding of your path.
Q: How are the hexagrams linked to Human Design and the Gene Keys?
Human Design uses the 64 hexagrams as a foundational structure, but arranges them according to the ancient circular system attributed to Fu Xi (Fuxi), which predates the more well-known King Wen sequence. This circular arrangement—called the Rave Mandala—places the hexagrams around the zodiac wheel, linking them to astrology. Even though Human Design uses the Fu Xi layout, Ra Uru Hu numbered the hexagrams according to the traditional King Wen sequence, so the numbering matches what you find in the I Ching.
The Gene Keys take the same 64 hexagrams and expand their meaning into a contemplative journey of transformation. Each Gene Key is expressed through three frequency bands: the Shadow (challenge), the Gift (potential), and the Siddhi (highest essence). While Human Design focuses on energy mechanics and decision-making, the Gene Keys emphasize personal evolution and spiritual awakening.
This means that if you’re exploring a Human Design gate or a Gene Key, you can look up the corresponding hexagram number in the I Ching—the core meaning is the same. Each system brings its own lens, but they share the same archetypal signatures.
The hexagrams reveal patterns. In learning to read these patterns, we learn to read life itself.
