I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 8 with Changing Lines 1, 3, 5 to Hexagram 36
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 8.1.3.5 -> 36
8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 8
Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.
Hexagram 8 Judgment
"比，吉。原筮，元永贞，无咎。不宁方来，后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”
This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.
Hexagram 8 Image
"水上有地，比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”
The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.
Line 1 Changing
"有孚比之，无咎。有孚盈缶，终来有它，吉。"
(Yǒu fú bǐ zhī, wú jiù. Yǒu fú yíng fǒu, zhōng lái yǒu tā, jí.)
“Sincerity in holding together brings no blame. Sincerity fills the empty vessel. Good fortune follows.”
This line emphasizes the importance of sincerity in relationships. When one approaches others with sincerity, there is no blame. The empty vessel being filled represents the potential for success when trust is established.
Line 3 Changing
"比之匪人。"
(Bǐ zhī fěi rén.)
“Holding together with the wrong people.”
This line warns against uniting with people who are dishonest or untrustworthy. Associating with the wrong people can lead to trouble. Choose your allies wisely.
Line 5 Changing
"显比，王用三驱，失前禽，邑人不诫，吉。"
(Xiǎn bǐ, wáng yòng sān qū, shī qián qín, yì rén bù jiè, jí.)
“The leader holds together openly. The king uses three hunts, but loses the game. The people of the city do not reproach him. Good fortune.”
This line speaks of a leader who holds the group together openly and fairly. Even if some opportunities are lost, the people do not criticize, as they trust the leader’s integrity. In the end, good fortune follows from unity and trust.
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
"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.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team