Hexagram 36
Darkening of the Light (Míng Yí)
Above: Earth · Below: Fire
When it gets dark, keep your light hidden
Video
The judgment
The light is wounded and times are hard. Holding on to what is right is what brings benefit.
The Image: The light sinks into the earth: darkening of the light. So the noble person, when leading others, keeps their light hidden and yet sees clearly.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
The sun sinks into the earth; the light is wounded. Everything is held up — wait for better times.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
… They come to attack my city, wounding my flesh, and the whole land is in turmoil.
Someone attacks the city and wounds its people, and the whole country knows no peace.
Takashima
- On fortune: a time of great difficulty — it is wise to keep a very low profile.
- On the home: the family's affairs are not going smoothly; perhaps father and son live apart, but things can still be kept whole.
Five common questions
Timing
The light is dimmed; keep a low profile
Health
Pent-up liver qi; ease your heart
Money
Hard for everyone; hold on to your cash
Home
A rough patch at home; patience keeps it whole
Love
Things unclear; don't decide in haste
The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.
The six lines
- Nine at the beginning: The light is wounded in flight; it lowers its wings. The noble person is on the road and goes three days without eating. Wherever he goes, the host has words for him.
- Six in the second place: The light is wounded — wounded in the left thigh. Rescue comes with a strong horse. Good fortune.
- Nine in the third place: The light is wounded while hunting in the south, and the great chief is caught. Do not expect to set things right too quickly.
- Six in the fourth place: Entering the left side of the belly, one grasps the heart of the darkening, and leaves through the gate of the courtyard.
- Six in the fifth place: The darkening of the light, as with Prince Ji. Steadfastness is favorable.
- Six at the top: Not light but darkness. First it climbed to heaven, then it sank into the earth.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.