Hexagram 49 — Revolution (革)
A clear, modern reading of I Ching hexagram 49—Revolution (Gé): Fundamental change — timing is everything.
Ge is revolution — fire in lake, old forms transform. Set the calendar, clarify timing; change with sincerity after deliberation; great transformation needs faith, not haste.
The Judgment
巳日乃孚，元亨，利贞，悔亡。
Sì rì nǎi fú, yuán hēng, lì zhēn, huǐ wáng.
“On the day of change comes sincerity — supreme success, perseverance furthers, regret vanishes.”
In plain terms: Fundamental change — timing is everything.
The Image
泽中有火，革；君子以治历明时。
Zé zhōng yǒu huǒ, gé; jūnzǐ yǐ zhì lì míng shí.
“Fire in the lake — the noble person sets the calendar and clarifies the seasons.”
The Image invites us to translate the hexagram's symbolism into practical conduct—not superstitious fortune-telling.
Six Lines (Brief)
- Bound with yellow ox hide — secure, don't rush.
- On the day of change, reform — going forth brings good fortune.
- Going brings misfortune — reform thrice deliberated with sincerity.
- Regret vanishes — sincere change of mandate brings good fortune.
- Great person transforms like a tiger — sincerity without divining.
- Noble person like leopard, petty person changes face — stay steadfast at home.
In Daily Life
When Revolution appears in reflection, consider:
- When the day comes, change with sincerity
- Reform thrice deliberated — don't rush
- Clarify timing — align change with seasons
Practical scenarios:
- Organizational change — sincere reform when timing ripens
- Personal transformation — bold yet sincere change
- Rash reform — deliberate thrice first
Spatial Note (Feng Shui)
In feng shui, Revolution is often associated with the South and the Fire phase.
Lower Li (south) and upper Dui (west). Fire in lake — southern fire, western joy for transformative change.
Related Hexagrams
A Closing Thought
Revolution reminds us: Fundamental change — timing is everything. What is this pattern asking of you right now?