The 36th Hexagram of the I Ching: The Ming Yi Hexagram
The Symbolic Meaning of the Ming Yi Hexagram:
The Ming Yi Hexagram is formed by the stacking of two opposing trigrams. The lower trigram is Li (☲), symbolizing fire and light, while the upper trigram is Kun (☷), symbolizing the earth and receptiveness. Li represents brightness and the sun, and Kun represents the earth. The sun sets into the earth, causing light to be obscured. This situation reflects a time of darkness, uncertainty, and difficulty in the environment. When applied to human affairs, this hexagram suggests that the ruler (the “bright” one) is overshadowed by a less capable or ignorant minister (the “dark” one). In this time, one should remain low-key, adhering to moral principles, cultivating inner wisdom while outwardly appearing humble, and avoid drawing attention to one’s abilities in order to avoid harm from others.
Interpretation from “Duan Yi Tian Ji”: The Ming Yi Hexagram, with Kun above and Li below, represents the “Kan” (坎) palace, which is often associated with confusion and difficulty. Ming Yi symbolizes the harm to one’s moral integrity or “brightness.” This hexagram suggests that during such times, one should refrain from acting hastily and instead observe and wait for the situation to change.
Interpretation by the Northern Song Dynasty Scholar Shao Yong: The sun sets beneath the earth, and light is thus diminished. All matters are obstructed, and one must wait for the right moment to act.
Interpretation by Taiwanese Scholar Fu Pei-Rong:
- Fortune: One should protect oneself through wisdom to avoid disaster.
- Wealth: No significant profits; there may be hidden returns.
- Family Life: Father and son should be kept separate, and marriage should not be arranged hastily or without proper alignment.
- Health: The liver may suffer from stagnation or congestion, requiring attention and care.
Traditional Interpretation of the Hexagram: The Ming Yi Hexagram consists of two opposite trigrams, with Li (brightness) below and Kun (earth) above. The sun sets, and light is lost, leading to confusion, obstacles, and difficulties. One should maintain humility, adhere to the right path, cultivate inner wisdom, and keep a low profile to avoid unnecessary harm. It symbolizes a period of uncertainty where one’s actions should be cautious and carefully considered.
The Image: The image is of the sun setting beneath the earth, leaving the world in darkness, representing the loss of brightness and clarity.
Fortune: During this time, things are at a standstill, with obstacles and harm from petty individuals. There may be confusion or misdirection in your actions, so it is advised to remain calm and wait for a better moment to act.
Career: In an unfavorable environment, it’s important to maintain an even mindset and handle difficult circumstances with strength and resilience. Endure the pressure and appear cautious on the outside while keeping a clear understanding of the situation internally. If it’s necessary to leave a situation, do so quietly and avoid danger. Continue to fight in the face of adversity, taking precautions before acting.
Business: Pay close attention to market trends and wait for the right moment to act. However, it is important to stick to ethical business practices. Even in difficult circumstances, do not hesitate to take calculated risks, particularly in the southern direction, where significant gains are likely to be found.
Reputation: Maintain lofty aspirations, work hard and persist in adversity. Remain true to your principles, and keep your brilliance hidden. In times of chaos, it is more important than ever to uphold justice and remain humble.
Romance and Marriage: A thorough analysis of the other party is necessary. Don’t risk losing much by being hasty or making the wrong decisions. Pay attention to the larger picture.
Decision-Making: Although the current circumstances are challenging and the future uncertain, if you can endure through difficult times, adapt to circumstances, and maintain a calm and humble attitude, things may eventually improve. Focus on self-cultivation, keep your wisdom hidden, and adopt a cautious approach. This will help you navigate through difficulties and ultimately lead to success.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Ming Yi Hexagram
Line Statement: First Line, Nine (初九):
“Míng yí yú fēi, chuí qí yì“
“Light is obscured while flying, its wings droop.”
The meaning of this line is that when brightness or clarity is hindered, it is like a bird flying with drooping wings, flapping hurriedly in a state of panic. The noble person, when facing such a situation, may choose to retreat and remain hidden, even to the extent of abandoning their position and disregarding the loss of sustenance. However, if the noble person takes action during this time, they will inevitably face criticism from those in power.
If you receive this line in a divination, remember:
- “Drooping wings, flying away far” – this symbolizes the need to withdraw and avoid danger, much like a bird fleeing to a distant place.
- “A path that ends at the edge of the room” – this speaks to feeling trapped or confined in the current situation.
- “One foot on two boats” – trying to balance two opposing directions, which is a precarious situation.
- “Spending effort for reunion, but it remains difficult” – indicates that efforts to resolve the situation might be futile if not approached correctly.
Transformation of the First Line: The Hexagram Becomes 15 (地山谦)
When the first line changes, the hexagram transforms into the 15th hexagram: Di Shan Qian (地山谦), “Modesty.”
This hexagram is formed by stacking the trigrams Gen (☶) for mountain and Kun (☷) for earth. The earth is below, and the mountain is above. The earth is low while the mountain is high, symbolizing humility, where one does not boast about their achievements, their status, or their wisdom. It represents modesty and restraint, a reminder to remain humble in the face of success.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Ming Yi Hexagram
Line Statement: Second Line, Six (六二):
“Míng yí, yí yú zuǒ gǔ, yòng zhěng mǎ zhuàng, jí“
“Light is obscured, injured on the left thigh; if you use a strong horse for rescue, it will be auspicious.”
The meaning of this line is that when light (or clarity) is obstructed, it is like having an injury to the left thigh. If one can summon strength or help (symbolized by a strong horse), it will lead to a favorable outcome. The situation is not dire, and with timely assistance, one can overcome the challenges and achieve success.
If you receive this line in a divination, remember:
- “The injury is not severe, it can still be remedied quickly” – the problem is not yet overwhelming, and the situation can still be fixed with the right effort.
- “When the right time comes, prosperity will follow” – good fortune and success are on the way as long as you are patient and act when the opportunity arises.
- “Be cautious of wounds or setbacks, like clouds blocking the sun” – this warns against obstacles and the potential for hidden dangers.
- “Riding a thousand miles, worry and fear may cause things to unravel” – despite progress, be careful of overextending yourself too quickly.
- “If you ask about going or staying, the answer is that the intention is clear” – the right course of action is clear in this situation.
- “When the dark clouds dissipate, the moon will shine brightly” – after difficulties, clarity and success will follow.
Transformation of the Second Line: The Hexagram Becomes 11 (地天泰)
When the second line changes, the hexagram transforms into the 11th hexagram: Di Tian Tai (地天泰), “Peace.”
This hexagram is formed by stacking the trigrams Qian (☰) for heaven and Kun (☷) for earth. It represents harmony, where yin and yang (the passive and active forces) work together in balance. This is a time of prosperity and flow, where everything is in the right place, and things progress smoothly. Change is coming, but as long as one remains adaptable, good fortune will follow.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Ming Yi Hexagram
Line Statement: Third Line, Nine (九三):
“Míng yí yú nán shòu, dé qí dà shǒu; bù kě jí, zhēn“
“Light is obscured, going on a southern hunt, and gaining a great leader; do not be hasty, be firm and steadfast.”
The meaning of this line is that when the light is dimmed, the ruler (or individual) may travel south to conduct a hunt and encounter a great leader or guide. The key here is to act patiently, not rushing things, and to maintain a steady and resolute course.
If you receive this line in a divination, remember:
- “Head south to gain ground, great benefits may come” – acting with purpose and moving forward will lead to favorable outcomes.
- “Some matters need to be delayed, rushing could bring harm” – it is better to take your time and not act hastily.
- “Traveling north or south, some sorrow and loss will occur” – though progress will be made, some hardships are inevitable.
- “Meeting a guest from Hainan, achieving fame past North Pond” – a reference to opportunities or achievements coming from unexpected sources.
- “False names and empty gestures will eventually fade, real success will emerge in time” – superficial achievements will not last, but true success will follow after perseverance.
- “A bit of brightness will return in the fall, old things will become new again” – old opportunities will come back, revitalized and transformed.
Transformation of the Third Line: The Hexagram Becomes 24 (地雷复)
When the third line changes, the hexagram transforms into the 24th hexagram: Di Lei Fu (地雷复), “Return.”
This hexagram is formed by stacking the trigrams Zhen (☵) for thunder and Kun (☷) for earth. It symbolizes a period of returning to the foundation and starting anew. The movement of thunder signals change, but it is steady and purposeful, guiding one through a return to stability and growth. It emphasizes cyclical renewal and progress through natural forces.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Ming Yi Hexagram
Line Statement: Fourth Line, Six (六四):
“Rù yú zuǒ fù, huò míng yí zhī xīn, yú chū mén tíng“
“Entering the left side of the abdomen, gaining insight into the heart of the obscured light, and then stepping out of the courtyard.”
The meaning of this line is that one enters into the core of a difficult situation, akin to investigating the inner workings of obscured light, and gains a deeper understanding. This newfound clarity allows one to confidently step forward, leaving the old situation behind.
If you receive this line in a divination, remember:
- “It is best to avoid witnessing matters that will cause emotional harm” – during this time, you may face emotional challenges, so avoid situations that could deepen your sorrow.
- “Under the bright moon, dark clouds fly on both sides” – suggests that there is some hidden danger even when things appear outwardly clear.
- “A woman in the courtyard bears sorrow and resentment” – there may be a situation of lingering emotional conflict or unspoken grief.
- “When Yin and Guan encounter each other, worries are gone” – a moment of release or escape from impending danger.
- “It is better to plan for progress and use the situation to gain something according to your true desires.”
- “An arrow shot at a magpie on the eaves, but the nest remains undisturbed” – an attempt to harm or disrupt will not succeed if the foundations are strong.
- “One small trouble becomes great auspiciousness” – a minor issue may transform into a major blessing if dealt with wisely.
Transformation of the Fourth Line: The Hexagram Becomes 55 (雷火丰)
When the fourth line changes, the hexagram transforms into the 55th hexagram: Lei Huo Feng (雷火丰), “Abundance.”
This hexagram is formed by stacking the trigrams Li (☲) for fire and Zhen (☰) for thunder. The combination of thunder and lightning represents great achievement and rising to the peak of success. However, it serves as a warning: things can easily swing to the opposite extreme. What rises may fall, and there is always an element of uncertainty, so caution is necessary.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Ming Yi Hexagram
Line Statement: Fifth Line, Six (六五):
“Jī zǐ zhī míng yí, lì zhēn“
“The brightness of Ji Zi’s obscuration, it is auspicious to be firm.”
The meaning of this line is derived from the story of Ji Zi, a sage who maintained his integrity and wisdom in a difficult situation. The brightness, though temporarily dimmed, is never extinguished. Ji Zi remained firm on the path of righteousness, and this illustrates that even when one faces hardship, keeping one’s moral integrity and inner light intact will ultimately lead to success.
If you receive this line in a divination, remember:
- “In a time of darkness, be patient and conserve your light” – even when circumstances are tough, hold firm to your principles.
- “Protect your integrity and remain steadfast” – perseverance through adversity leads to eventual success.
- “Even if you rise to a position of respect and wealth, do not seek to overreach” – maintaining humility is key.
- “Fear the harm from external threats, but also know when to retreat to avoid unnecessary danger.”
- “A strong defense and caution are necessary to protect against harm” – act carefully to prevent misfortune.
- “If you fail to exercise caution and vigilance, disaster could follow.”
Transformation of the Fifth Line: The Hexagram Becomes 63 (水火既济)
When the fifth line changes, the hexagram transforms into the 63rd hexagram: Shui Huo Ji Ji (水火既济), “After Completion.”
This hexagram is formed by stacking the trigrams Kan (☵) for water and Li (☲) for fire. It symbolizes a state of completion where one has succeeded in overcoming difficulties and now finds a state of balance. However, this success is not permanent, and change is inevitable. Be prepared for what comes next, as stability will not last forever.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Ming Yi Hexagram
Line Statement: Sixth Line, Six (上六):
“Bù míng, huì; chū dēng yú tiān, hòu rù yú dì“
“Without light, obscurity; first ascending to the heavens, then falling into the earth.”
The meaning of this line is that there is a complete lack of clarity, leading to a state of confusion and loss. The individual rises to great heights but then falls back to the ground, signifying an inevitable decline after a brief moment of success.
If you receive this line in a divination, remember:
- “A distant command comes from heaven, yet the struggle for land remains uncertain” – there is a sense of unreachable ambition, and the conflict over material gains continues.
- “When people and land are unclear, a beautiful woman weeps by the water’s edge” – symbolic of the futility and sorrow of a situation that lacks clarity.
- “Do not say things are impossible; some beautiful things are not meant to be” – recognize when something is unattainable and avoid chasing illusions.
- “The east wind gently lends its power, blowing softly yet briefly” – temporary or fleeting opportunities may present themselves.
Transformation of the Sixth Line: The Hexagram Becomes 22 (山火贲)
When the sixth line changes, the hexagram transforms into the 22nd hexagram: Shan Huo Bi (山火贲), “Grace.”
This hexagram is formed by stacking the trigrams Li (☲) for fire and Gen (☶) for mountain. It symbolizes refinement and embellishment, where the raw and unpolished is given form and meaning through careful cultivation. This hexagram stresses the balance between substance (the mountain) and form (the fire). It represents an approach where beauty and elegance are achieved through discipline and restraint.