THIRTY-SIX

明夷

TIME OF DARKNESS

CONCERNS: Keeping our faith in times of extreme difficulty; keeping our intelligence hidden when it would arouse sharp opposition; the will to survive.

1. By being alert to the subtle signs of impending difficulties, we can leave before they overtake us.
2. We should now accept help and possibly also help others rather than staying to engage in a struggle. However, no effort should be spared in confronting our own internal darkness.
3. Even though it is generally wise to avoid open conflict, if our position is just and we are being confronted with real darkness, we may be forced to conclude that, in this case, compromise is not possible.
4. When we discern a dark heart in a situation, we must leave before we are overcome.
5. If we are overtaken by inescapable conditions, we must preserve our inner­ clarity and not succumb to hopelessness. By adapting to the conditions with inner faith, we can remain intact until the light returns.
6. As darkness, difficulty, crisis or evil reach a climax, the energy passes from them.

COMMENT: The darkness and difficulty that we experience most frequently is our own inner, personal obscurity or unconsciousness. Becoming conscious of every motive, belief and impulse is the way to freedom and spiritual maturity.