I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 36 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 5 to Hexagram 31
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 36.1.4.5 -> 31
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 4 Changing
"入于左腹，獲明夷之心，于出門庭。"
(Rù yú zuǒ fù, huò míng yí zhī xīn, yú chū mén tíng.)
“Entering the left side of the belly, capturing the heart of Darkening of the Light. Emerging from the gate and courtyard.”
This line speaks of penetrating the core of the situation and understanding the heart of the difficulty. By doing so, one can move forward and emerge from the hidden place, ready to act.
Line 5 Changing
"箕子之明夷，利貞。"
(Jī zǐ zhī míng yí, lì zhēn.)
“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.
Changing to:
31. Influence (Wooing) (咸 Xián)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dui (Lake)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 31
Hexagram 咸 (Xián) symbolizes influence, attraction, and the power of mutual response. This hexagram speaks of relationships, attraction, and how one person or force influences another. Success comes from subtle influence rather than force.
Hexagram 31 Judgment
"咸，亨，利貞。取女吉。"
(Xián, hēng, lì zhēn. Qǔ nǚ jí.)
“Influence. Success. Perseverance furthers. Taking a wife brings good fortune.”
This hexagram advises subtle influence and mutual attraction. Success comes from steady, gentle influence, not force. In relationships, like marriage, mutual respect and attraction bring good fortune.
Hexagram 31 Image
"山上有澤，咸。君子以虛受人。"
(Shān shàng yǒu zé, xián. Jūn zǐ yǐ xū shòu rén.)
“Lake on the mountain: The image of Influence. The superior person is open to receiving others.”
The image of the lake on the mountain represents openness and receptivity. The superior person, like the lake, is open to receiving others and is influenced by their surroundings. This receptiveness allows for mutual influence and growth.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team