I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 36 with Changing Lines 2, 5, 6 to Hexagram 9
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 36.2.5.6 -> 9
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 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 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.
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:
9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 9
Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.
Hexagram 9 Judgment
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”
This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.
Hexagram 9 Image
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”
The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team