The Meaning of Hexagram #34

Hexagram #34: Thunder over Heaven

As if thunder and lightning are your allies, hexagram number 34 implies great strength. This is a time to summon your determination and feel your own fortitude. Trust your momentum and your reputation will grow. Pay attention to details and follow through with your intentions, projects and ideas. New allies will surface as you extend your influence into uncharted lands. Helpful solutions will come to you. Let your vision and higher purpose be your compass.

NOTE: Want to know how I Ching hexagram #34, "Heaven below Thunder", is interpreted for questions about dating, marriage and romantic issues? See our special Love I Ching interpretation for hexagram #34

Changing Lines in Hexagram #34

Changes in Line 1

"Feet Alone Are not Enough"

If your experience of your power is "only in your feet," this implies it is too soon to step forward. It means you have not awakened yet to your full potential. Let your strength emerge into your entire body and being before you walk forward. Seek allies that nourish your own strength. Only by gaining support from others will your power grow to its full potential.

Changes in Line 2

"Taking a Stand"

You have great power to rise above current challenges. Feel your immense power, but use it wisely and in right measure. Persevere without over

Changes in Line 3

"Using Strength Wisely"

Stay mindful of where and how you direct your energy and power. Why exert it against an electrically charged barb

Changes in Line 4

"Opened Gates"

There are no obstacles holding you back at this time. Step forward knowing you are on track.

Changes in Line 5

"Letting go of the Goat"

This image means: If you suffer a setback, give up remorse. You are strong but you are not all powerful. See your limits and forgive yourself for them. Giving up something you have been clinging to is your best option

Changes in Line 6

"Butting Heads"

You are in deadlock. You are either fighting with yourself or with a comrade. There is no winner, no loser, no gain, and no loss. The wise person steps back from the fight and stays put for a time. Current problems will be stopped through acceptance of where you are.

The Trigrams Within Hexagram #34

I Ching hexagram #34 is composed of two 3-line trigrams layered above each other. The lower 3 lines of hexagram #34 form the trigram for Heaven, while the top 3 lines form the trigram for Thunder.

NOTE: An easy way to think about the two trigrams is that the upper trigram references external forces, while the bottom trigram references internal forces.

Hexagram #34's Lower 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.

Hexagram #34's Upper 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.

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #34

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.