Hexagram 36, Line 2

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line describes a situation where you are caught in a time of darkness and adversity and have sustained an injury. The "darkening of the light" signifies a period where truth is suppressed, malevolence is in power, or your own inner clarity is obscured. The injury "in the left thigh" is significant. The thigh is crucial for movement and escape, so this wound hinders your ability to extricate yourself from the difficult circumstances. However, the injury is not fatal; it is a setback, not a complete defeat. The key to this line is the "strong horse," which symbolizes a powerful and swift means of rescue. This is not something you generate through aggression, but rather a resource you find and utilize. The horse represents a loyal friend, a powerful ally, a sudden opportunity, or a deep inner strength that carries you through the danger. The commentary emphasizes that the "good fortune" is achieved not through struggle or resistance, but through "being yielding and following the principle" (順以則也). This means you must be adaptable, accept help when it's offered, and follow a moderate, correct path rather than provoking the source of the darkness. You survive by being prudent and finding the right support to escape, not by fighting a battle you cannot win.

Guidance for Action

You are currently in a vulnerable position and have likely suffered a setback or an emotional wound. It is crucial to recognize that direct confrontation with the source of your trouble will be counterproductive and could lead to greater harm. Your priority now is not to win, but to endure and escape. Be observant and look for your "strong horse"—a person, resource, or opportunity that can provide the strength and speed needed for a rescue. This could be a mentor, a loyal friend, a new job offer, or a change of environment. Do not let pride prevent you from accepting help or making a strategic retreat. Your path to good fortune lies in flexibility, modesty, and aligning yourself with a powerful, positive force that can carry you out of the current darkness. Follow the rules, stay low, and wait for the right moment and the right help to move forward.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship, this line points to a painful period of conflict, misunderstanding, or external pressure that has wounded you or your partner. The connection itself is hindered, making progress feel difficult or impossible. The "injury to the thigh" suggests that the ability to move forward together has been impaired. This is not a time for blame or escalating arguments. Instead, the path to healing ("good fortune") lies in finding a "strong horse." This could be a wise friend, a couples' counselor, or a shared, foundational commitment to the relationship that is strong enough to carry you both through this dark patch. The key is to be "yielding"—be patient, listen, and avoid stubbornness. Focus on mutual support and finding a way to escape the negative cycle together, rather than fighting each other.

For Career & Business

You are experiencing a difficult situation at work. This may be a hostile environment, a tyrannical boss, a project that has been unfairly criticized or sabotaged, or a general sense of being stymied and unappreciated. You have been "injured," meaning your reputation, confidence, or position has taken a hit. This setback is hindering your career progression. The advice is clear: do not engage in open conflict or office politics. Fighting back now will only make things worse. Instead, your best strategy is to find a "strong horse" to aid your escape. This could be a powerful mentor, a strong ally in another department, a headhunter with a great opportunity, or the acquisition of a new, in-demand skill. Your good fortune will come from a strategic move or a powerful alliance, not from a direct fight. Be diligent, follow procedures, and quietly look for your way out and up.

For Financial Matters

This line indicates a significant financial setback. You have taken a loss ("injured in the thigh") that has impaired your financial mobility and security. This could be due to a bad investment, a market downturn, or an unexpected major expense. The situation feels dark and discouraging. Panicking or making aggressive, high-risk moves to recoup your losses is the wrong approach. The "good fortune" promised comes from finding a "strong horse"—a powerful and reliable means of recovery. This might be a new and stable source of income, the help of a wise financial advisor, a well-timed opportunity to liquidate a different asset, or a loan from a trustworthy source. The principle is to be "yielding": be conservative, prudent, and follow sound financial rules. Your recovery will be built on a strong, steady foundation, not on a desperate gamble.