I-Ching – The Book of Changes –Ch’ien, K’an, K’un & Li
The eight trigrams were given attributes and characteristics that helped to define them symbolically in terms of the natural world, human social arrangement, colors, animal totems and body part.
Summary of I-Ching’s Attributes & Characteristics
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TRIGRAM NAME: CH’IEN
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Natural World/Emblem |
Heaven |
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Family Relationship |
Father |
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Body |
Head |
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Color |
Blinding White |
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Animal |
Horse |
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Symbolize |
Ice and the fruit of a tree |
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Quality |
Kingship |
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Direction |
North West |
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Note: Represent heaven, the power of the universe and the creative. It is strong and active, the three yang lines representing vitality, limitless potential and endurance.
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TRIGRAM NAME: KAN
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Natural World/Emblem |
Lake/Water |
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Family Relationship |
Middle Son |
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Body |
Ear |
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Color |
Deep Blue |
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Animal |
Pig |
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Symbolize |
Marrowy wood, soft and spongy, able to soak up water but lacking great strength |
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Quality |
Wheels, Danger |
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Direction |
North |
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Note: Represent water the abysmal. It is dangerous and fearless, full of hidden perils and swirling erosive forces.
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TRIGRAM NAME: KUN
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Natural World/Emblem |
Earth |
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Family Relationship |
Mother |
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Body |
Belly |
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Color |
Black |
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Animal |
Cow |
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Symbolize |
The supportive tree trunk and a large cloth or cart carrying all things without distinction |
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Quality |
Nourishment |
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Direction |
South West |
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Note: Represent earth, the receptive. It is gentle and passive, the three yin lines represent endless nurturing and devotion.
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TRIGRAM NAME: LI
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Natural World/Emblem |
Fire/Heat |
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Family Relationship |
Middle Daughter |
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Body |
Eyes |
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Color |
Warm orange, color of fire and the sun |
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Animal |
Peacock |
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Symbolize |
Dry brittle trees |
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Quality |
Fire, heat |
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Direction |
South |
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Note: Represent the fire, the clinging. It is bright, warm and clear, corresponding to beauty and intelligence. The lives of others benefits from its radiance.
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