Hexagram 36 · Ming Yi (Darkening of the Light)
Di Huo Ming Yi (Earth over Fire)
Upper: Kun / Lower: Li
Earth
Wounded Light
Judgment
It is beneficial to be correct in adversity.
Image
Brightness enters the earth: Ming Yi; the noble person thus governs the multitude with obscurity yet clarity. — Brightness sinks into the earth, symbolizing the wounding of light; the noble person should govern the multitude with a strategy of concealment, appearing obscure on the surface but clear within.
Interpretation
The Ming Yi hexagram symbolizes the wounding of light, when the worthy live in dark times. In career matters, talent goes unrecognized; it is fitting to hide one's light and bide one's time; in relationships, there may be hidden circumstances; in decision-making, in adversity one should keep a low profile to preserve oneself, uphold the right way, and wait for the right moment.