I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 36 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 20

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 36.1.3.5.6 -> 20

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

36. Darkening of the Light

Yang Yang Yin Yin Yin Yin

20. Contemplation

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.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"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.)
English Translation:
“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 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"明夷于南狩，得其大首，不可疾貞。"
(Míng yí yú nán shòu, dé qí dà shǒu, bù kě jí zhēn.)
English Translation:
“Darkening of the Light during the hunt in the south. Catching the leader of the group. It is not wise to act hastily.”

This line describes a successful capture of a key figure, but it advises against acting too quickly. Although the leader has been caught, patience is needed before taking further action.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"箕子之明夷，利貞。"
(Jī zǐ zhī míng yí, lì zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The darkening of the light of the Prince of Ji. Perseverance brings benefit.”

This line refers to the story of the Prince of Ji, who suffered greatly but maintained his inner clarity and strength. Perseverance through difficult times brings ultimate success.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"不明晦，初登于天，後入于地。"
(Bù míng huì, chū dēng yú tiān, hòu rù yú dì.)
English Translation:
“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:

20. Contemplation (觀 Guān)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 20

Hexagram 觀 (Guān) symbolizes contemplation and observation. This hexagram represents a time to pause and reflect, gaining insight through careful observation rather than immediate action.

Hexagram 20 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"觀，盥而不薦，有孚顒若。"
(Guān, guàn ér bù jiàn, yǒu fú yǒng ruò.)
English Translation:
“Contemplation. Washing the hands, but not making an offering. With sincerity and awareness, clarity comes.”

This hexagram speaks of taking time to reflect before making decisions or taking action. By cultivating sincerity and careful observation, clarity and insight are gained. It advises patience and deep contemplation.

Hexagram 20 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風行地上，觀。先王以省方，觀民設教。"
(Fēng xíng dì shàng, guān. Xiān wáng yǐ xǐng fāng, guān mín shè jiào.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows over the earth: The image of Contemplation. The ancient kings made tours of inspection to observe the people and teach them.”

The wind blowing over the earth symbolizes the power of observation. The superior person uses this time to observe, learn, and understand, much like the ancient kings who traveled to see the state of their people and teach them accordingly.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team