The Meaning of Hexagram #1

Heaven signifies the ultimate creative force. Hexagram number 1 formed of six unbroken lines signifies the purest form of power and positive energy. An expression of pure truth and strength that exceeds all worldly, physical or immediate concerns. A time of profound thought and conscious creation.

NOTE: Wondering how I Ching hexagram #1, "Heaven over Heaven", is interpreted for questions about relationships? See our special Love I Ching interpretation for hexagram #1

Changing Lines in Hexagram #1

Changes in Line 1

"Hidden Dragon. Do Not Act"

Have patience. There is a time for action and a time for mature patience. Now is a time for a cautious pause. Time holds answers for those who would wait for them.

Changes in Line 2

"A Dragon Appears in the Field"

Greatness and prominence are different things. One can be great long before one achieves success. A seriousness and intensity of purpose mark one destined for great things. True greatness is shown by example.

Changes in Line 3

"Vigilance all Day, Apprehension by Night"

A constant defence of ones principles is needed. Creation requires constant effort and a wellspring of energy. Be cautious of forces that would lead astray or take advantage of a lapse in focus.

Changes in Line 4

"The Dragon Soars up from the Depths"

Choices are at hand that will have profound effects on future direction. Remember that neither choice is right or wrong. They are simply reflections of your true self. Reflect not on the question, but on the path to which you belong.

Changes in Line 5

"The Dragon Flies through the Skies"

Destiny is a powerful force. All things are drawn to what is within their true nature. Each thing follows its own kind. Some things are just meant to be, others are not. The great dragon has achieved its rightful place.

Changes in Line 6

"Great Boundaries are Broken"

In this line we see the great dragon (a powerful and epic force for energy and creation) going too far. There is a difference between what can be achieved and what should be achieved. Excesses are referenced here. Some lines should not be crossed.

The Two Trigrams Within Hexagram #1

Hexagram #1 is built out of two 3-line trigrams stacked above one another. The bottom three lines of hexagram #1 make up the trigram for Heaven, while the upper three lines make up the trigram for Heaven.

NOTE: A simple way to think about trigrams is that the upper trigram points to external energies, and the lower trigram points to internal energies.

In the case of hexagram #1, the upper and lower trigrams match. Keep in mind however, that one trigram can reflect subtely different meanings in the top and lower positions.

Hexagram #1's Upper and Lower Trigrams of Heaven

The supreme trigram of Heaven is also sometimes known as the the Creative. It is a trigram of unadulterated, perfect creative force. The trigram for Heaven is a representation of pure truth and power. The trigram may also point to a father figure — or the direction of the northwest.

Try a free I Ching Reading

iFate's free online I Ching readings have been called "beautiful", "deeply insightful", and have received high praise from all over the world.
Click here to get started. »

List of all possible changes for hexagram #1

A note on iFate's I Ching translation: This is not a direct translation of the original "Book of Changes" from 1000 BC. While multiple translations of the original text are available, they include many archaic references and can be difficult to understand for 21st century readers. iFate uses our own modern rewritings (two different editions) of the "Book of Changes" which makes interpreting I Ching readings far simpler. For iFate's additional contemporary re-writing of the original text, see our "Love I Ching" translation.