I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 28 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 4, 5 to Hexagram 36

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 28.1.2.4.5 -> 36

Young Yin Old Yang Old Yang Young Yang Old Yang Old Yin

28. Preponderance of the Great

Yin Yin Yin Yang Yin Yang

36. Darkening of the Light

28. Preponderance of the Great (大過 Dà Guò)

Trigrams

Above
☱ Dui (Lake)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 28

Hexagram 大過 (Dà Guò) represents a time when things have gone beyond their normal limits, requiring extraordinary measures. This hexagram speaks of a time when great strength or effort is needed to deal with overwhelming circumstances.

Hexagram 28 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"大過，棟橈，利有攸往，亨。"
(Dà guò, dòng náo, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, hēng.)
English Translation:
“Preponderance of the Great. The ridgepole sags. It is favorable to undertake something. Success.”

This hexagram speaks of a situation where the weight of circumstances is too great, symbolized by the sagging ridgepole. Extraordinary efforts are required, and success comes through careful and deliberate action. It is a time for great strength.

Hexagram 28 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"澤滅木，大過。君子以獨立不懼，遯世无悶。"
(Zé miè mù, dà guò. Jūn zǐ yǐ dú lì bù jù, dùn shì wú mèn.)
English Translation:
“The lake rises above the trees: The image of Preponderance of the Great. The superior person stands alone without fear and withdraws from the world without regret.”

The image of a lake rising above the trees suggests an overwhelming situation. The superior person stands firm and does not fear the challenge. Sometimes, retreat and quiet reflection are necessary to cope with overwhelming circumstances.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"藉用白茅，无咎。"
(Jiè yòng bái máo, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Using white grass as a mat. No blame.”

This line advises taking modest, simple actions in times of difficulty. By keeping things simple and using what is available (like white grass), one avoids blame and misfortune.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"枯楊生稊，老夫得其女妻，无不利。"
(Kū yáng shēng tí, lǎo fū dé qí nǚ qī, wú bù lì.)
English Translation:
“A withered poplar tree sprouts new shoots. An old man marries a young wife. Everything is favorable.”

This line describes a time of renewal in the midst of decay. Even when things seem beyond repair (like a withered tree), new life and opportunities arise. This renewal brings success.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"棟隆，吉。有它吝。"
(Dòng lóng, jí. Yǒu tā lìn.)
English Translation:
“The ridgepole rises. Good fortune. If there are other things, there is regret.”

This line suggests that the situation is improving, symbolized by the ridgepole rising again. However, if one takes on too much or becomes distracted by other concerns, there will be regret.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"枯楊生華，老妇得其士夫，无咎无譽。"
(Kū yáng shēng huá, lǎo fù dé qí shì fū, wú jiù wú yù.)
English Translation:
“A withered poplar tree blossoms. An old woman marries a young husband. No blame, no praise.”

This line describes a time of renewal, but without much fanfare. There is no blame, but also no great praise. It advises accepting the renewal without seeking validation or acclaim.

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

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"明夷，利艱貞。"
(Míng yí, lì jiān zhēn.)
English Translation:
“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

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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