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Hexagram 36

Darkening of the Light

明夷 · Míng Yí

Trigram Composition

Upper Trigram

Earth

Lower Trigram

Fire

The Judgment (彖)

Darkening of the Light. In adversity it furthers one to be persevering.

The Image (象)

The light has sunk into the earth. The superior person veils their brightness in dealings with the masses.

Meaning

The sun has gone beneath the earth — brilliance must be hidden to survive. In times of darkness and oppression, protect your inner light by concealing it outwardly.

Advice

This is a time to hide your brilliance, not display it. The environment is hostile to light. Protect your inner truth by being outwardly compliant while inwardly steadfast.

Keywords

ConcealmentPerseveranceProtectionHidden lightAdversity