Darkening of the Light
The Veiled Light
When a dark power holds the high place, clarity is hidden to keep it — at the risk of hiding for good.
Darkening of the Light reverses Progress: Kun, earth, now stands above Li, fire, and the sun that was rising has gone down below the land. The tradition reads it as a time when a dark power holds the high place and clarity invites injury, so the wise conceal what they know rather than lose it altogether. The Judgment counsels perseverance in adversity, and the fifth line names Prince Chi, who feigned madness under a tyrant and kept his light alive within. The Image has the superior man live among the people, veiling his brightness and shining nonetheless.
Light
Signifies integrity preserved in a hostile time, discretion that protects what matters, inner clarity held without display, and endurance that outlasts the darkness.
Shadow
Can indicate injury at the hands of those in power, talent wounded and wasted, the strain of long concealment, or caution that hardens into permanent hiding once the danger has passed.
