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Representative illustrated story image for I-Ching Hexagram 38, Opposition.

Daily I-Ching · Monday, May 25, 2026

Hexagram 38: Opposition

Two elements that naturally diverge. The hexagram concerns estrangement — between friends, within a family, inside oneself.

Reflect today: Where in the day does the pattern of opposition already show itself, and what single act would answer it well?

Upper Lí · Fire
Lower Duì · Lake

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Today's Meaning

Two elements that naturally diverge. The hexagram concerns estrangement — between friends, within a family, inside oneself. In great matters, nothing can be done; in small, much can. Preserve your own integrity, and small gestures of goodwill may yet bridge the gap.

Practice

  1. Name Opposition. Look for the place where opposition is already shaping the day: Two elements that naturally diverge.
  2. Practice the Image. Let the Image become conduct: amid all fellowship the superior person retains their individuality.
  3. Answer Hexagram 38. Before the day ends, make one visible choice that fits Opposition instead of forcing the day to answer your preference.

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The Illustrated Story

Two sisters had not spoken for ten years. The younger sent a letter; the elder did not open it. A matchmaker arranged a chance meeting at a market; the younger turned away. On a festival day they were seated at the same table by an oblivious aunt. Neither could leave without scandal. They ate in silence. The younger refilled the elder's cup. The elder, after a long pause, did the same. No word was said about the quarrel. Walking home, they walked together. Some oppositions cannot be resolved by argument; a small gesture, correctly timed, does what ten years of correspondence cannot.

Unopened Letter
Market Avoidance
Same Festival Table
Cup Refilled
Gesture Returned
Walking Together

Continue to the full Hexagram 38 page for Judgment, Image, trigrams, and line commentary.

Open Full Hexagram 38