First Nine (初九)
One ready to move with confused steps treads reverently, and there will be no mistake.
Your path may seem uncertain at first, but careful attention and respect for the moment will guide you safely forward.
Hexagram 30
Lí 離
Upper · Lí (Fire) | Lower · Lí (Fire)
Brightness · clarity · adherence · illumination · dependence · civilization
What does Hexagram 30 mean?
Hexagram 30, Lí (離), is about brightness, clarity, and adherence. Brightness and clarity flourish when you remain steadfast in what is right.
The Judgment
Lî indicates that it will be advantageous to be firm and correct, and there will be free course and success.
Brightness and clarity flourish when you remain steadfast in what is right. Like fire that clings to fuel to burn, illumination depends on a foundation of integrity and humble receptivity. By maintaining your center and cultivating docile strength, you allow your light to shine forth without consuming itself.
The Lines
Second Six (六二)
The subject in his place in yellow shows great good fortune.
Dwelling in the center with humble correctness, you embody the golden mean—this brings lasting blessing.
Third Nine (九三)
Like the declining sun, instead of simple joy he utters the groans of age. There will be evil.
Clinging to what has passed and mourning lost time prevents you from embracing the present. Release regret and find contentment now.
Fourth Nine (九四)
Its subject comes abruptly, like fire—sudden, consuming, rejected by all.
Excessive intensity burns itself out quickly. Unchecked passion destroys what it touches; moderation preserves what matters.
Fifth Six (六五)
Tears flow in torrents and sorrow is expressed. There will be good fortune.
Sincere acknowledgment of difficulty and humble grief open the way to renewal. Crisis recognized becomes the seed of growth.
Sixth Nine (上九)
The king employs its subject in punitive expeditions, achieving admirable merit by breaking only the chiefs. There will be no error.
When you act with clarity and righteous purpose to remove what is corrupt, discrimination and restraint ensure no harm befalls the innocent.
Hexagram 30 FAQ
What does Hexagram 30 mean for career?
This is a time when your insight and intelligence shine. Opportunities to demonstrate your abilities are emerging. Yet guard against burning too brightly—maintain balance and choose your foundations wisely. Let your work illuminate without consuming your energy.
What does Hexagram 30 mean for love and relationships?
Relationships now have the potential to be luminous and beautiful, each partner reflecting the other's light. Avoid clinging too tightly or burning with possessive intensity; healthy distance and mutual respect sustain connection far longer than passionate urgency alone.
What does Hexagram 30 mean for study and personal growth?
Your mind is sharp and receptive; difficult concepts become clear. This is an excellent season for deep learning and understanding. Pair your bright focus with steady, balanced practice rather than exhausting bursts of effort.
What does Hexagram 30 mean for business and money?
Creativity and fresh ideas are your strength now. Marketing, design, and communication ventures show real promise. Transparent, honest dealings build trust with clients and partners. Let your work speak with clarity and integrity.
What should I be careful about with Hexagram 30?
Beware of burning out. Brilliance that flares too intensely fades quickly. Do not sacrifice substance for appearance; lasting success comes from consistent, measured effort. Protect your wellbeing by distributing your energy wisely over time.
What if Hexagram 30 has changing lines?
Read the line statement for each changing line above. With two or more changing lines, Zhu Xi’s rules decide which text leads the reading.
Original English translation by James Legge, 1882 (Public Domain). Editorial adaptation © Yijing.