I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 36 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 6 to Hexagram 18
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 36.1.2.6 -> 18
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.
Line 1 Changing
"明夷于飛，垂其翼。君子于行，三日不食，有攸往，主人有言。"
(Míng yí yú fēi, chuí qí yì. Jūn zǐ yú xíng, sān rì bù shí, yǒu yōu wǎng, zhǔ rén yǒu yán.)
“The light has been obscured in flight. The wings hang down. The superior person, in their journey, fasts for three days. There is somewhere to go. The leader speaks.”
This line describes a time of restraint, where one must hide their brilliance and prepare internally. Fasting for three days symbolizes purification and readiness. Although there is difficulty, there is still a path forward, and guidance will come.
Line 2 Changing
"明夷，夷于左股，用拯馬壯，吉。"
(Míng yí, yí yú zuǒ gǔ, yòng zhěng mǎ zhuàng, jí.)
“Darkening of the Light, wounding the left thigh. Using a strong horse to rescue brings good fortune.”
This line describes being wounded or hindered, symbolized by an injury to the thigh. However, using strength and determination (the strong horse) to overcome the difficulty leads to good fortune.
Line 6 Changing
"不明晦，初登于天，後入于地。"
(Bù míng huì, chū dēng yú tiān, hòu rù yú dì.)
“Not bright, but dark. First ascending to heaven, then entering the earth.”
This line describes a situation where light and clarity seem to be lost, but this is part of a natural cycle. One first rises, then falls into darkness, symbolizing the ebb and flow of challenges. It advises patience during dark times.
Changing to:
18. Work on What Has Been Spoiled (蠱 Gǔ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 18
Hexagram 蠱 (Gǔ) symbolizes decay or corruption. This hexagram indicates a time when things have gone wrong, and one must work to repair and restore order. It speaks of correcting past mistakes and addressing harmful influences.
Hexagram 18 Judgment
"蠱，元亨，利涉大川。先甲三日，後甲三日。"
(Gǔ, yuán hēng, lì shè dà chuān. Xiān jiǎ sān rì, hòu jiǎ sān rì.)
“Work on what has been spoiled. Supreme success. It is favorable to cross the great water. Before the new beginning, three days; after the new beginning, three days.”
This hexagram suggests that addressing past mistakes leads to supreme success. It advises starting fresh, but careful preparation and reflection are necessary before moving forward. This process takes time but brings great reward.
Hexagram 18 Image
"風行山上，蠱。君子以振民育德。"
(Fēng xíng shān shàng, gǔ. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhèn mín yù dé.)
“The wind blows across the mountain: The image of Decay. The superior person stirs the people and nourishes virtue.”
The wind on the mountain represents the force of decay and the need for restoration. The superior person takes action to correct the situation, helping to revive the people and nourish their virtues. This is a time for renewal.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team