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Hexagram 30: The Clinging Fire

䷝ 離 (Lí) · Clarity. Cling to what is bright and true.

clarity, light, dependence, attention

Lower trigram: Fire ☲ · Upper trigram: Fire ☲

The judgment

Fire has no shape of its own; it shines only by clinging to what it burns. Know what you depend on and choose it well. Steadiness and a gentle, caring attitude, like tending a patient cow, keep your light bright.

The image

Fire above fire: one light follows another, as the sun comes up again each morning. Keep your own light steady and let it reach every corner around you.

The six lines

Read only the lines that changed in your casting, counting from the bottom.

• Line 1 (bottom): Morning begins and footsteps cross in every direction. Pause and collect yourself before rushing in; serious attention keeps you clear of mistakes.
• Line 2: A warm golden light, like the sun at noon. Balance and moderation bring great good fortune.
• Line 3: As the sun goes down, some bang on a pot and sing while others mourn their advancing years. Both miss the point; accept that everything passes, without forced cheer or despair.
• Line 4: It flares up all at once, burns out and is cast aside. A blaze that rises too fast does not last; find a steadier fuel.
• Line 5: Tears flow and there is sighing. A real change of heart, deeply felt, brings good fortune.
• Line 6 (top): Clear up a deep disorder by dealing with its source, not by punishing everyone involved. Be firm and fair, without harshness; no blame.

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