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Hexagram:

Also known as:

36. Brightness Hiding

Protecting Inner Light, Concealed Brilliance, Guarding the Flame, Hidden Potential, Strength in Reserve, Enduring Darkness, Waiting for the Moment, Shielding the True Self, Quiet Strength, Inner Radiance Veiled

Line

Drawn as

Energy

Duality

Trigram

Dynamic

Polarity

Meaning

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Yin

Feminine

Yang 8.png

Yin

Feminine

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Yin

Feminine

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Yang

Masculine

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Yin

Feminine

Trigram

3

Lower

2

1

6

Upper

5

4

Fire

Middle Daughter

Immature Yin

Custom

Earth

Youngest Daughter

Immature Yin

Feeling

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Yang

Masculine

#

English Name

Chinese Name

Hanzi

Pinyin

Action

Hexagram:

卦 Guà

Hidden Influence:

互卦 Hu Guà (nuclear)

Underlying Cause:

綜卦 Zong Guà (reverse)

36. Brightness Hiding

明夷

ming yi / míng yí

Reignite

40. Deliverance

sòng

Untangle

06. Contention

xiè

Release

Expression:

I wait patiently

Affirmation:

I rouse new growth by hiding my talents and accepting the difficult journey.

Image (Legge):

The light has sunk into the earth: the image of Darkening of the Light. Thus does the superior man live with the great mass: He veils his light, yet still shines.

Judgement (Legge):

In adversity it furthers one to be persevering.

Overall meaning:

Brightness Hiding represents a time when clarity, wisdom, or inner strength may need to be concealed or subdued. This hexagram suggests that, in certain situations, openly displaying one's talents or insights can invite unwanted attention or opposition, making discretion a valuable approach. Brightness Hiding encourages one to protect their inner light, nurturing it in a more private way until conditions are more favorable. It reflects a strategic choice to withdraw from prominence, allowing time for quiet reflection, preservation of energy, and safeguarding of personal goals or values.

Resilience and subtlety, highlighting the importance of maintaining one’s integrity and purpose even in restrictive or challenging circumstances. It teaches that true strength often lies in patience and adaptability, knowing when to pull back without compromising one’s core principles. By embracing a low profile and adapting to the environment, one can maintain inner clarity while avoiding unnecessary conflict. Ultimately, Brightness Hiding reminds us that, at times, wisdom and growth flourish best under the surface, preparing for a future when one’s light can shine openly and effectively.

Quotes:

Upright Hexagram

Rotated 90°
counter clockwise

Change - - to 0
Change — to 1

Binary Number Created:

000101

Line 1:

Embarking / Initiating

The first line shows someone in a situation where it is wise to conceal their true light or intentions. This line advises restraint and caution to avoid drawing unwanted attention or opposition.

Line 2:

Discovery / Inner Harmony

In this line, the subject hides their light by remaining humble and modest. By keeping a low profile and avoiding arrogance, they can protect themselves and progress safely.

Line 3:

Gateway / 
Portal

The third line depicts someone in a difficult situation, struggling to conceal their light, and feeling hurt or oppressed. This line reminds the individual that maintaining patience and restraint, even in hardship, will ultimately lead to a better outcome.

Line 4:

Showing up / Approach

Here, the subject’s light is dimmed by external forces, yet they remain composed and undeterred. By holding firm and staying true to themselves, they are able to endure the darkness with dignity and strength.

Line 5:

External Focus / 
Periphery

The fifth line shows a person who conceals their brightness strategically, adapting to the needs of the situation. This wise concealment allows them to navigate difficulties effectively and results in good fortune.

Line 6:

Pinnacle / Breakthrough Awaits

The sixth line warns of the dangers of hiding one’s light for too long or too completely, leading to a loss of self. This line suggests that it is important to emerge and reveal one’s true self when the time is right, lest one lose touch with their purpose.

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36

Binary:

000101

Structure:

Unicode decimal:

Unicode point:

Non-Core Gua

19939

U+4DE3

Sector:

45 to 50.625

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