I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 36 with Changing Lines 1, 3 to Hexagram 2

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 36.1.3 -> 2

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

36. Darkening of the Light

Yin Yin Yin Yin Yin Yin

2. The Receptive

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.

Changing to:

2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)

Trigrams

Above
☷ Kūn (Earth)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 2

Hexagram 坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.

Hexagram 2 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"元亨，利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
English Translation:
“The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.”

The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.

Hexagram 2 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"地势坤，君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
English Translation:
“The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world.”

The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team