In the I Ching, each hexagram is accompanied by a "judgment" and "line statements" (or yao), which explain the meanings of each line within the hexagram. Each line reflects a stage of change or a potential outcome.

1. Hexagram Judgment (Guà cí)

The Hexagram Judgment is the general interpretation of the entire hexagram, describing the overall situation or principle represented by the hexagram. It provides an overarching message or advice for the situation at hand.

Tone and Guidance: The judgment typically offers guidance on what actions to take or what attitude to adopt in the face of the circumstances symbolized by the hexagram. It may describe positive or negative outcomes, strategies for success, or cautionary advice. Cosmic or Moral Insight: The judgment often connects the situation to broader, cosmic, or moral principles. It can touch on themes like balance, harmony, leadership, or the consequences of one's actions. For example, the hexagram 乾 (Qián), or The Creative, has a judgment that talks about power, creativity, and the ability to achieve success through decisive action and strength. It indicates an auspicious and dynamic time for action and initiative.

2. Line Statements (Yao) (爻辞, Yáo cí) Each of the six lines in a hexagram has its own line statement (or yao), which provides a detailed interpretation of that particular line in the hexagram. These line statements explain the meaning of each line and how it fits into the overall message of the hexagram.

Structure of Line Statements: Yao: Refers to the specific line being interpreted. There are six lines in a hexagram, and each line is numbered from the bottom to the top (1 to 6). Interpretation: Each line represents a particular aspect of the situation, often describing an inner state, a stage of development, or a specific external condition. The line statement provides insight into the potential outcome for that stage of change, including advice for actions and behavior. Types of Lines: Yang Line (Solid Line): A solid line (--) represents Yang (active, forceful, masculine energy). Yang lines often symbolize strength, assertiveness, and external actions. Yin Line (Broken Line): A broken line (- -) represents Yin (passive, receptive, feminine energy). Yin lines typically reflect a more receptive, internal, or subtle approach to the situation. In addition to the basic interpretations of solid or broken lines, line statements also specify if the line is changing (Old Yang or Old Yin). Changing lines indicate transformation, showing that a change in the situation is occurring or will soon occur.

Example of a Line Statement: For hexagram 坤 (Kūn), or The Receptive, which represents Earth, the line statements for the lines are filled with rich descriptions that point to the necessity of adaptability, patience, and receptivity. The line statements may vary depending on whether the line is an Old Yang or Old Yin.

For example, in Line 1 of 坤 (Kūn):

Yang Line (Solid): The line statement might say something like: "The situation is at its very beginning; it is important to act with sincerity and humility. Progress can be made with patience and respect for the natural order."

Changing Line: If Line 1 were changing, the line statement might refer to a transformation or the need to evolve from a position of humility into a more active or assertive role.

3. Changing Lines (Old Yin and Old Yang) (变爻, Biàn yáo) Changing lines (also called Old Yin and Old Yang) are special lines within the hexagram. These lines represent transformation and change. When the line statements refer to changing lines, they often suggest that something in the situation is evolving or that action must be taken to move to the next stage.

Old Yin (6): When you encounter an Old Yin line, it represents a broken line that is transforming into a solid line (Yin transforming to Yang). This indicates that a time of receptivity and patience is coming to an end, and a new, more active phase is beginning.

Old Yang (9): When you encounter an Old Yang line, it represents a solid line transforming into a broken line (Yang transforming to Yin). This indicates that a time of active, assertive effort is ending, and it is now time to adopt a more passive, receptive approach.

Changing lines are powerful indicators of change, signaling that the situation is in flux and that the current state will not persist.

4. The Dynamic Hexagram (Secondary Hexagram) If a hexagram has changing lines (Old Yin or Old Yang), the transformation of these lines leads to the creation of a secondary hexagram (or dynamic hexagram). This second hexagram represents the future state of the situation after the transformation is complete.

The secondary hexagram offers further insight into the eventual outcome of the situation. It’s a reflection of how things will evolve once the changes indicated by the changing lines have been fully realized.