The Meaning of Hexagram #25

Your innermost nature is innocent, free from blame and always spiritually worthy. Only the outer persona - the role we play - is subject to blame. Being human, one gets subject to misfortunes. This is a time to be authentically self-forgiving for all that you think you have done wrong. Your deepest and most natural self is not to blame. Suffering comes by not knowing what you are underneath all those layers of personality. Be natural and unpretentious. Hexagram number 25 is a reminder that underneath there is innocence.

NOTE: Wondering how I Ching hexagram #25, "Heaven over Thunder", applies to love and romantic relationship questions? See our special Love I Ching interpretation for hexagram #25

Changing Lines in Hexagram #25

Changes in Line 1

"Acting from True Nature"

Acting out of innocence brings good fortune. This means taking "true action." True action is any action that is in accord with a deep sense of doing no wrong. Don't use too much or too little effort. Proceed with trust.

Changes in Line 2

"Staying Present"

This line is a reminder that every step of the way is its own destination. Put your attention fully on the task at hand. Results will come, but they are subject to a whole-hearted persistence with respect to the current step.

Changes in Line 3

"Embracing Problems"

Misfortune can come without rhyme or reason. It is the way of time and earthly life. Attempting to live completely free of problems is a trap. Learning to embrace and see problems in a new light is real freedom.

Changes in Line 4

"Honoring your own Knowing"

This line is a reminder to remain true to your inner heart. Don't buy in to rumors. Throw them away. There will be no loss. Find yourself. You cannot lose what you really are.

Changes in Line 5

"Fighting Leads to Problems"

Don't fight others who speak ill of you. Their opinions won't last. Don't fight problems. Problems dissolve when they are not fought. Shift your attention into what is already perfect: your true self.

Changes in Line 6

"Staying Put"

If misfortune comes, don't act at this time. The time is not yet ripe. Slow down and have faith.

The Trigrams Inside Hexagram #25

Hexagram #25 is structured out of two 3-line trigrams mounted on top of each other. The bottom 3 lines of hexagram #25 make up the trigram for Thunder, while the upper 3 lines make up the trigram for Heaven.

NOTE: Generally speaking, the upper trigram references external forces or energies, while the bottom trigram references internal forces or energies.

Hexagram #25's Lower Trigram of Thunder

The enigmatic trigram representing thunder is an energetic mix of power and mystery. According to Chinese lore, thunder is often associated with the might and mystery of dragons. The trigram of thunder is also called the "The Arousing" and points to intent, motion and initiative. It is a building block of unbridled energy and forward progress. It may also refer to an 'eldest son' or the map direction north.

Hexagram #25's Upper Trigram 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.

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #25

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.