I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 36 with Changing Lines 1, 6 to Hexagram 52
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 36.1.6 -> 52
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 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:
52. Keeping Still (艮 Gèn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 52
Hexagram 艮 (Gèn) represents stillness and stability, like a mountain. This hexagram speaks of the importance of remaining calm and centered, even in the face of external pressures. Success comes from mastering self-control and inner peace.
Hexagram 52 Judgment
"艮其背，不獲其身，行其庭，不見其人，无咎。"
(Gèn qí bèi, bù huò qí shēn, xíng qí tíng, bù jiàn qí rén, wú jiù.)
“Keeping still, restraining the back. One does not grasp oneself. Walking in the courtyard, one does not see others. No blame.”
This hexagram advises remaining calm and centered, restraining impulses and external distractions. By focusing on inner stillness, one avoids mistakes and remains clear-minded. Success comes from self-discipline and tranquility.
Hexagram 52 Image
"兼山，艮。君子以思不出其位。"
(Jiān shān, gèn. Jūn zǐ yǐ sī bù chū qí wèi.)
“Mountains standing still: The image of Keeping Still. The superior person does not allow their thoughts to go beyond their place.”
The image of mountains standing still symbolizes the importance of maintaining stability and not overreaching. The superior person remains grounded, controlling their thoughts and emotions, leading to success.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team