I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 42 with Changing Lines 3, 5, 6 to Hexagram 36

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 42.3.5.6 -> 36

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

42. Increase

Yin Yin Yin Yang Yin Yang

36. Darkening of the Light

42. Increase (益 Yì)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 42

Hexagram 益 (Yì) represents increase, growth, or expansion. This hexagram speaks of a time when positive developments and opportunities for growth are present. Success comes from giving and sharing with others, which leads to mutual benefit and prosperity.

Hexagram 42 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"益，利有攸往，利涉大川。"
(Yì, lì yǒu yōu wǎng, lì shè dà chuān.)
English Translation:
“Increase. It is favorable to have somewhere to go. It is favorable to cross the great river.”

This hexagram advises taking advantage of opportunities for growth. Moving forward with purpose and crossing challenges (symbolized by the great river) brings success. By being generous and sharing resources, one fosters mutual prosperity.

Hexagram 42 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"風雷，益。君子以見善則遷，有過則改。"
(Fēng léi, yì. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiàn shàn zé qiān, yǒu guò zé gǎi.)
English Translation:
“Wind and thunder: The image of Increase. The superior person sees good and moves toward it. If they see a mistake, they correct it.”

The image of wind and thunder represents dynamic energy and growth. The superior person uses this energy to recognize opportunities for improvement and correction. By moving toward what is good and correcting errors, one fosters growth and success.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"益之用凶事，無咎。有孚，中行告公用圭。"
(Yì zhī yòng xiōng shì, wú jiù. Yǒu fú, zhōng xíng gào gōng yòng guī.)
English Translation:
“Increasing during difficult times. No blame. There is sincerity. A middle path is followed, and the leader is informed using a jade tablet.”

This line speaks of increasing one's efforts during challenging times. With sincerity and balance, difficulties can be overcome. The jade tablet symbolizes respect and clear communication with authority figures, leading to resolution.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚惠心，勿問元吉。有孚惠我德。"
(Yǒu fú huì xīn, wù wèn yuán jí. Yǒu fú huì wǒ dé.)
English Translation:
“Sincerity brings a generous heart. No need to ask; great good fortune comes. Sincerity benefits my virtue.”

This line advises that with sincerity and generosity, good fortune naturally follows. There is no need to ask for rewards—they come of their own accord. Sincerity strengthens virtue and leads to mutual benefit.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"無平不陂，無往不復。艱貞吉，利有攸往。"
(Wú píng bù bēi, wú wǎng bù fù. Jiān zhēn jí, lì yǒu yōu wǎng.)
English Translation:
“There is no level ground that does not slope, no going forth without returning. Perseverance through difficulty brings good fortune. It is favorable to have somewhere to go.”

This line speaks of the natural cycles of increase and decrease. Just as the ground slopes after a flat stretch, everything eventually returns. By persevering through difficult times, good fortune is found. It advises having a clear goal and moving toward it.

Changing to:

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.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team