I Ching, Yijing or Zhou Yi
"Oracle of the moon": © 2000 LiSe

  Yi Jing, Oracle of the Moon

The meaning of numbers

1

The number of primordial being.
The All, the absolute. It is always the same and unchangeable. It contains all other numbers, but cannot be multiplied. It is nonpolarized, both male and female - or no gender at all.
Without duality there is no doubt, no insecurity, no fear. An Ace is the first start to a goal, the vision or ideal.
An Ace is abstract, it is up to you to act on it, to take the first step.

There's so much motivation and momentum surrounding this single-digit number. It is a true pioneer, eager to break ground on new endeavors and pave the way for others to follow. It is a natural leader and a proactive force. The number 1 represents newness, movement, and the possibilities that await us. In spiritual symbolism, it is the number of creation and the birth of all things -- the divine origin of the universe.

In Numerology the number 1 is the root of opportunity in our lives. It is a symbol of confidence, power, and action. It pushes us to look at our current circumstances and realize that we have the power to turn them into anything we wish. Even if we are afraid, the 1 inspires us to take control of our future and embrace new beginnings.

 

  Spades  Ace of Wands (yang fire): the seed, the focused Will.
  It personifies an aroused Will, aiming at the bulls-eye. A pivotal act, or fateful step, that will set loose a chain of events leading toward your desired goal. It refers to a birth or new beginning, the inauguration of an endeavor, and the building of the necessary commitment to see a project or plan through.
  Spades  Ace of Swords (yang air): decisive single-mindedness.
  A single upraised sword represents your prime motive or guiding ideal - the vision that guides you through life's changing fortunes with single-minded clarity.

1 Primordial being

  Hearts  Ace of Cups (yin water): unconditional love.
  This card represents an unfailing source of balm for body, heart and soul. It suggests that you can relax into a safety net of love, support and communion.
  Diamonds  Ace of Pentacles (yin earth): planting a seed.
   It is usually pictured with a garden or agricultural backdrop. If this "talent" is planted and tended carefully, it will sprout and reward you with a good harvest. Think of it as a seed of your future fulfillment. An Ace represents the first step to a goal, and if that step is repeated, it will cover great distances.

Polarity and division
Duality, the beginning and foundation of reality and division, of matter, time and space. Contrast, opposition, but also balance.

  The Numerology number 2 is known to numerologists as a supremely feminine force, one that represents both grace and power. It is cooperative, always aiming to bring peace and balance back to a relationship or situation. This Numerology number is also very sensitive - of all the numbers, it has the strongest intuition. It is able to sense currents and feelings instinctively, then use these clues to connect with others empathically.
  At its very core the 2 in Numerology represents partnerships -- the coming together or balancing of two individual people, concepts, or things. While it holds great power over any situation, it wields it with such diplomacy and tact that the result is not control and authority, but harmony and teamwork. It is a mediator, able to see two sides of a situation in an unbiased way and guide others down the middle road.

  Spades  2 of Wands: time, the split-second creative act, social life.
  A deadlock due to energies working at cross-purposes. This could refer to an internal split or to some situation where you feel "damned if you do, damned if you don't." This could be a standoff with another person or rubbing up against limitations that are currently imposed upon you. But this is also the card which can cancel the negative influence of Swords better than any other Wands-card. It can initiate spiritual growth and satisfaction and material wealth. It is the strongest card of Wands.
  Spades  2 of Swords:
  The Two in this suit usually represents conflicting ideas or visions. These must be reconciled by communication in order to arrive in a harmonious place or to complete strategic negotiations. Mixed signals prevail.
  While they may be appearing to try to communicate, opposite sides are missing each other entirely, with possibly drastic consequences. In the best case, a frank discussion would clear the air and serve both sides, but one cannot expect that in every instance where this card appears.

2 Polarity and division

  Hearts  2 of Cups:
  The Two in this suit signifies a union of souls. This card traditionally describes a romantic relationship, but also includes the idea that all good friendships and partnerships are based on a natural affinity and a deep mutual understanding. As a personal reflection, it can also signify that your mind and your soul are discovering each other, maybe for the first time.
  This card also symbolizes a karmic tie, often portrayed by a wreath or figure-eight ribbon twining around the two cups. Occasionally you see a symbol referring to the union of alchemical opposites (as in sacred sex), pictured as a long-necked flask twined with serpents, its mouth spouting flames, sometimes with wings. This image is from Alchemy, indicating the refining and mutually completing effect of a true and lasting love.
  Diamonds  2 of Pentacles/coins:
  The Two in this suit generally features a youth juggling, with two coins juggled in figure-eight fashion, or just the coins without the youth - one heads up, the other tails - both flipping in the air. It is clear that until one or the other coin drops, the final call can not be made; there is more to learn before a decision can be made about appropriate action.
  This card counsels patience, so do not allow yourself to be rushed. The figure-eight image is a symbol of immortality and eternity. Its message is "No need to hurry. You have all the time you need to work this out, no matter how things appear right now." Implied within this scenario is the idea that changes are in the works, but you will do better to stay calm until you have more information. Everything is in flux at a time like this.


The embracing synthesis.

  Overcoming the division by integrating both. Spiritual love. Trinity and three-dimensionality is the building principle of the universe we know, creation. Two creates the world's reality in duality, three creates life. It is the number of the woman. There is Reason-Perception-Wisdom but also Reason-Perception-Will. Or Come up-Exist-Descend. When we hear a rumor 3 times, we accept it as true.
  The 3 has a tendency to thrive in an upbeat and engaging atmosphere. Its energy is youthful and positive and it has an incredible zest for life. It dances from one enjoyable experience to the next, eager to interact with others along the way. The prized skill of the number 3 is communication and it uses this talent to build a wide and interesting circle of friends, lovers, and kindred spirits.
  The 3 is highly original and embraces unique thinking and creative expression. This number's artistic, curious nature allows it to convey abstract ideas and find solutions others may miss. A child at heart, the number 3 never misses a chance to have fun, engage with others, and express all the love and joy it embodies.

  Spades  3 of Wands:
  x
  Spades  3 of Swords:
  x

3 The embracing synthesis.

  Hearts  3 of Cups: agreement, mutual support, encouragement and teamwork.
  The Three of Cups in this position advises that you tune in with your family and fully inform them about what's going on with you. Let them add substance to your ideas with their talent and imagination. Think of this occasion as a celebration, where their support helps you find success in your work. There may be something here for everyone to contribute. Put yourself in the loving hands of your family connections and your trust will be well rewarded. The synergy between you could enhance each individual's talent and creativity. You will love the results!
  Diamonds  3 of Pentacles/coins: The Three is traditionally the card of genius. Here we usually see a master craftsman conferring with his masons on the installation of a beautiful stained-glass window in the cathedral. This designer is often likened to Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo, a multi-talented visionary who has no peers in talent or productivity.
  The masterwork is being proudly showcased for future generations, as an object of personal and collective pride. On some cards, the genius is portrayed at his studio, alone and burning the midnight oil, in a creative ferment - driven to draw, paint, invent, or whatever work genius wants to bring into creation. As a subtext to the rewards of genius are the days and weeks of intense concentration it takes to solve the problems that great works entail.

Material order

  The compass, the 4 elements, 4 phases of the moon, a cross, the Egyptian hieroglyph for immortality, Shiva, the 4-armed god. A Mandala gives rest and a home to the wandering spirit. The feeling of safety from knowing where you are.
  A wise and rational energy that can bring us a sense of security and consistency. It has a strict definition of right and wrong and tends to see things as black and white with no grey in between. The number 4 leads with its head, not its heart, and uses this mental strength to build a life of service and contentment.
  When strength and efficiency are needed, it's number 4 to the rescue. It is a no-nonsense number with a heads-down approach to life and work. It is extremely dependable and lends a great amount of stability to a person or situation. The 4 is dedicated to advancing, but in a more conservative way. It sticks to what is tried-and-true instead of attempting methods that are new.
  The number 4 creates a very stable, grounded vibration, a great day to stay focused on the tasks at hand and get things done. When you tap into the energy of this ‘4’ day, you might be surprised at how much you accomplish. If you’ve been putting off starting a new project, today is a good day to revisit the project and make a plan of action. When you invest time in building a sturdy foundation and making structured plans, all of your projects (whether personal or professional) will flourish.
  Be mindful of your interactions with others today and don’t let yourself get carried off track by other people’s ideas. When you stay focused on what matters, you’ll find that it can be a fun, and maybe even profitable, day. (numerology.com)

  Spades  4 of Wands: the foundation. initiative, ambition, drive and desire.
  This is the suit of enterprise, risk-taking and teamwork. But also the only Wands-card which can not fight against the Sword, but intead shows its own negative aspects: lies, sorrow, unfortunate changes.
  It takes time to build a grand vision; and other people of ambition and talent must be attracted to it for it to fulfill its potential. What we see here is the start-up group, the founding visionaries committing their energies to designing the blueprints and laying the groundwork. This partnership is the prototype for society or any grouping where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.
  Spades  4 of Swords: visiting the ancestors.
  A message to take some time out, surrendering worldly concerns and retreating to a sheltered place of serenity away from the hustle and bustle. The oldest Tarot card images suggest a visit to the tombs of our ancestors, a place to contemplate your mortality and breathe in the dust of those who brought you here. A vision quest or pilgrimage to one's own center allows us to contemplate our roots, values and goals. Here you will see your place in the flow of time ... and unfolding generations.
  Keep your own counsel in this situation. There may be too much fear and hostility in the environment for you to be heard. It might be that your ideas are not ripe enough or that you are not ready to listen to feedback from others. If you spend more time in contemplation, you may successfully disregard the emotional occupations and biases of others. For now, closely observe inner events. The time for sharing will come later.

4 Material order

  Hearts  4 of Cups:
  A restless time, where a person may have become dissatisfied with life, and emotionally uncomfortable. Feeling stagnated, longing for change, the heart ponders its options ... as it should.
  The Four of Cups wants you to take a clear look at how stalled or distracted you have become. You may have been bogged down by negativity, hopelessness or a sense of limitation. It is not to your advantage, however, to see the world through such a narrow lens. Cut through some of the forces that undermine you, causing you to feel incapable. Sometimes you have to define what you are "for" by defining what you are "against." Decide that you are not as heavy as the cup of earth, not placid as is the cup of water, not turbulent as is the cup of air. Rather, now may be the time to be as aroused as is the cup of fire. This arousal may constitute liberation from the circumstances that may have brought you here.
  Diamonds  4 of Pentacles: the paradoxical aspect of material security.
  the two-edged sword of having been well supported and protected. It sounds completely idyllic until one investigates the real demands that prosperity places upon people -- the pressure of big decisions, responsibilities toward dependents or employees, and even tougher decisions in times of insecurity.
  The Four of Coins in this position signifies a young person, naive and pampered, who has been left an estate. Think conscientiously about all those people whom your activities impact, including those whose work and effort went into building what you inherited and those whose welfare depends upon your right management.
  What you have been given is abundant; still, it is not without limits. If you are prudent and responsible, the endowment will grow. However, if you are frivolous or foolish, your behavior could undermine both your inheritance and the well being of others who are connected to it.

The number of life and love
Quintessentia.
The number of man, 2 + 3, a mixture of even and odd, of good and bad, of light and dark, male and female. The 5 senses. It is absent from crystals but a typical structuring number in living nature. It is an unruly number, not able (or refusing) to create a 'perfect' structure. The journey of the planet Venus is a pentagram, the 'lover's knot', symbolizing endless love and the rule of the spirits over the elements. In China life is pervaded by 5, in the West the 5th element is the invisible/spiritual one, ether or the quinta essentia. A pentagram is the sign of Ishtar and lends protection as an amulet. It is also a sign of the microcosmos.
In the span of single-digit numbers 1-9, 5 is the number in the exact middle. It acts as a go-between and a pivotal point of change.

  Spades  5 of Wands: initiative, ambition, competition, drive and desire.
  Find your natural ambition. Identify what energizes you, what you would fight for and what you are passionate about - even when you're tired or discouraged. Strive to make that the centerpiece of your mission.
  However, minimize the number of egos bruised in the process or your success will be celebrated alone.
  Spades  5 of Swords: cleaning up the battlefield.
   Study carefully what went wrong, so that a new strategy can be devised and more setbacks forestalled. There is a need to regroup and rethink the game plan, discover your blind spots and weak links, and take corrective measures before getting back into the field for another round.
  Prepare yourself for disappointment over how your fellow humans are setting their priorities.

5 Life and love

  Hearts  5 of Cups: inheritance.
  The mess that is left after an emotional upheaval, such as a fit of rage, a fight or a death. Consequences run the gamut from a hangover and lost wages, to abuse and ruined relationships.
   If you promise things that you cannot deliver, then you might be setting yourself up for disappointment to follow. In overestimating our abilities, we are forced to face our limits.
  Do not cling to the setback. Focus on the potential.
  Diamonds  5 of Pentacles:
  the card of desire and gratification, expressed in classical tradition as flattery and false promises. This card represents both the seducer and the one seduced. There is undeniable excitement in the attraction of opposites; we have all had delightful moments of magnetism with a stranger. However, if promises are only spoken to achieve short-term gratification with no intent of follow-through, or the attraction appears as competition to more fulfilling relationships, the long-term result won't be worth the thrill of the chase.
  The appearance of something viable does not always bear out, so don't put anything of real value at risk over an infatuation.
  The card warns of the painful outcomes of bad choices, rather than focusing on the dynamic tension of the choosing itself.


Perfection of creation. 1+2+3 or 1x2x3.

The number 6 is the embodiment of the heart. It represents unconditional love and the ability to support, nurture, and heal. It is a powerful force of compassion and empathy and its warm light is a beacon of hope. Its role is to use its heart and soul to be of service to others.

The 6 in Numerology shines in partnerships of all kinds but especially emotional ones. Its empathy makes others comfortable letting down their guard and being open and honest about their feelings which, in turn, allows it to understand and provide the help that's needed. We could all use someone in our life who manifests the devoted energy of the 6.

  Spades  6 of Wands:
  x
  Spades  6 of Swords:
  x

6 Perfection of creation

  Hearts  6 of Cups:
  x
  Diamonds  6 of Pentacles:
  x


The pillars of wisdom

The number 7 is both deep and wise. It is not satisfied with simple explanations and surface-level information -- this is frivolous stuff. It knows that the real gold is buried deeper and won't stop until it finds it ... and then it'll keep digging for more. Asking questions, researching, listening, and sensing are all special skills the 7 uses in its search for awareness.

Though spirituality is especially important to the number 7 in Numerology, it takes a more intellectual approach to life than an emotional one. It is an analytical number that enjoys gathering and filtering through information to find answers. Still, it has a more powerful intuition than you might expect which it uses as a guide. This combination of conscious and subconscious thinking allows the mind of the Numerology number 7 to shine a light into the very deepest realms to access hidden truths.

  Spades  7 of Wands:
  x
  Spades  7 of Swords:
  x

7 The pillars of wisdom

  Hearts  7 of Cups:
  x
  Diamonds  7 of Pentacles:
  x


The auspicious number

Of all the numbers in Numerology, the number 8 is the achiever and measures life by the goals it reaches. It has good business sense, a powerful presence, and a strong drive for success. The 8 is also a symbol of balance -- you can see it in its symmetrical shape. For every blessing it receives, it puts one back out to the universe. When things are balanced, they feel stable, controlled, and supported, which is the most productive environment for the 8 to work in.

In Chinese culture, the number 8 is considered the luckiest number of all, and is purposefully worked into wedding dates, birth dates, addresses, and finances. Even in the world of Numerology, there are people who have been known to change their name in order to add more 8s to their Numerology chart, hoping to emulate this number's level of accomplishment. The 8 represents an ultimate form of achievement that many will spend their entire lives striving for.

  Spades  8 of Wands:
  x
  Spades  8 of Swords:
  x

8 The auspicious number

  Hearts  8 of Cups:
  x
  Diamonds  8 of Pentacles:
  x


The magnified sacred three

The energy of the number 9 represents completion, but not finality. Think of it more in a cyclical sense; it's about the ending of one cycle and the potential it creates for another cycle to begin. The 9 in Numerology acts as an usher in this process of transition or transformation, guiding and empowering us with its wisdom. It absorbs answers from a spiritual source, then delivers them to us in the real world.

This number is a humanitarian at heart. It is compassionate, kind, and intent on putting its efforts toward creating the greatest good. The 9 in Numerology has gone through its fair share of hardship and is wiser, stronger, and more aware as a result. These first-hand experiences make it especially understanding of others who are struggling and willing to provide valuable support.

  Spades  9 of Wands:
  x
  Spades  9 of Swords:
  x

9 The magnified sacred three

  Hearts  9 of Cups:
  x
  Diamonds  9 of Pentacles:
  x:

10 Completeness and perfection

An all-out effort, an obsessive commitment

Ten is the sum of 1 primorial unity, 2 polarity, 3 spirit or soul, 4 matter: the tetractys, containing everything. The unity of multiplicity. Ten can be both culmination or endpoint.

  Spades  10 of Wands:
  x
  Spades  10 of Swords:
  x

10 Completeness and perfection

  Hearts  10 of Cups:
  x
  Diamonds  10 of Pentacles:
  x

X

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 X

last update: 01.12.2020

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