I Ching · Hexagram 30 of 64 · Pure hexagram
30. Lí 離 · The Clinging
By Destiny Kua · Updated
Hexagram 30 doubles the Fire trigram: solid lines around an open centre. Fire has no fixed shape; it clings to what it burns and gives light because of it. Lí is about clarity, brightness, and choosing carefully what you attach yourself to.
The image
Brightness rises twice. The commentary says the great person, carrying this light forward, illuminates the four quarters of the world: clear understanding spreads outward when it is sustained.
What hexagram 30 means
Receiving Lí points to a time of visibility and understanding. Things become clear; you may be seen or recognised. The traditional text advises caring for the cow, a gentle, docile animal, meaning your brightness should rest on something humble and dependable. Fire that clings to the right thing gives light and warmth; fire that clings to the wrong thing burns out.
Hexagram 30 in daily life
At work
Good for presenting, teaching, publishing or clarifying a plan. Make sure your visibility is backed by solid substance.
In relationships
Warmth and openness help, but so does being clear about what you are committed to. Choose connections that bring out your best.
For yourself
Ask what you depend on for your energy, whether people, habits or ideas, and whether it truly sustains you.
The six changing lines
If your cast included changing lines (a 6 or a 9), read the matching lines below. Line 1 is the bottom line.
| Line | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Line 1 | Footsteps crossing in the morning. Starting out, many impressions compete; be careful and respectful, and there is no blame. |
| Line 2 | Yellow light. Balanced, moderate clarity: great good fortune. |
| Line 3 | The light of the setting sun. Accept life's cycles calmly rather than clinging or despairing. |
| Line 4 | It flares up suddenly, then dies away. Quick bursts of brilliance don't last; aim for steady light. |
| Line 5 | Tears flow, sighing and grieving. Honest sorrow leads to renewal: good fortune. |
| Line 6 | The king sends out his forces, removing the leaders but sparing the followers. Deal with root causes, not every symptom. |
The two trigrams
This hexagram doubles the Fire trigram離 (Lí), the same trigram that belongs to Kua Number 9 in Eight Mansions feng shui. Its element is Fire. It is one of the eight pure hexagrams.
Related hexagrams
- Opposite (every line changed): 29. Kǎn 坎 · The Abysmal
Questions to reflect on
- What am I clinging to, and does it keep my light burning?
- Where would clearer communication help most?
- Is my brightness steady, or only a flare?
Our line summaries are written in plain English in our own words, based on the traditional meanings. For reflection and entertainment, not prediction or professional advice.