I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 23 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 6 to Hexagram 36
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 23.1.3.6 -> 36
23. Splitting Apart (剝 Bō)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 23
Hexagram 剝 (Bō) symbolizes splitting apart or decay. This hexagram represents a time when things are falling apart or being stripped away. It advises patience and waiting for better times rather than trying to resist the natural cycle of decline.
Hexagram 23 Judgment
"剝,不利有攸往。"
(Bō, bù lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
“Splitting apart. It is not favorable to undertake anything.”
This hexagram warns against taking action during a time of decline or decay. It advises patience and acceptance of the situation. Resistance will not bring success, and it is better to wait for conditions to improve.
Hexagram 23 Image
"山附於地,剝。上以厚下,安宅。"
(Shān fù yú dì, bō. Shàng yǐ hòu xià, ān zhái.)
“The mountain rests on the earth: The image of Splitting Apart. The superior person maintains a firm foundation below and keeps peace in their dwelling.”
The image of a mountain resting on the earth suggests stability, but also decay at the edges. The superior person focuses on maintaining stability and peace within their environment, even as the outer world may be falling apart.
Line 1 Changing
"剝牀以足,蔑貞凶。"
(Bō chuáng yǐ zú, miè zhēn xiōng.)
“Splitting at the legs of the bed. Perseverance leads to misfortune.”
This line speaks of the foundation being weakened, symbolized by the legs of a bed splitting. Trying to persevere in such a situation will only lead to further misfortune. It advises caution.
Line 3 Changing
"剝之无咎。"
(Bō zhī wú jiù.)
“Splitting apart. No blame.”
This line describes a situation where decay is inevitable, but no blame falls on the person experiencing it. It advises accepting the situation and not trying to fight against natural decline.
Line 6 Changing
"碩果不食,君子得輿,小人剝廬。"
(Shuò guǒ bù shí, jūn zǐ dé yú, xiǎo rén bō lú.)
“The large fruit is not eaten. The superior person receives a carriage. The inferior person tears down their hut.”
This line describes a division between those who succeed and those who fall. The superior person is rewarded and moves forward, while the inferior person loses everything. It advises maintaining integrity and avoiding self-destruction.
Changing to:
36. Darkening of the Light (明夷 Míng Yí)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☲ Lí (Fire)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 36
Hexagram 明夷 (Míng Yí) represents a time when clarity and light are obscured. This hexagram speaks of difficulties or oppression, where one's light is dimmed or hidden. Success comes from remaining patient and inwardly strong while waiting for the right time to act.
Hexagram 36 Judgment
"明夷,利艱貞。"
(Míng yí, lì jiān zhēn.)
“Darkening of the Light. It is favorable to persevere in hardship.”
This hexagram advises perseverance during times of difficulty, when clarity and light are obscured. Success comes from remaining inwardly strong and enduring through hardship without losing hope.
Hexagram 36 Image
"明入地中,明夷。君子以莅眾用晦而明。"
(Míng rù dì zhōng, míng yí. Jūn zǐ yǐ lì zhòng yòng huì ér míng.)
“The light has sunk into the earth: The image of Darkening of the Light. The superior person manages the people by obscuring their brilliance but remaining internally bright.”
The image of light sinking into the earth symbolizes a time of concealment or oppression. The superior person hides their brilliance to protect themselves but continues to maintain clarity and wisdom within.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team