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Meaning and Context
The Yao (爻) is the smallest unit of the I Ching symbolic system. The character itself suggests interweaving or crossing, reflecting the interaction of cosmic forces.
There are two types of lines:
- Yang line (阳爻, —): Solid, unbroken line representing light, activity, firmness
- Yin line (阴爻, – –): Broken line with a gap, representing darkness, receptivity, yielding
- Three lines form a trigram (8 possible combinations)
- Six lines form a hexagram (64 possible combinations)
Etymology
The Xici commentary explains: "Yao means to imitate." The lines imitate or model the patterns of change in heaven and earth.
Classical Roots
The Xici (Great Commentary) provides the philosophical foundation:
From Yijing · Xici
「爻也者，效此者也。」
Plain translation
"Yao means to imitate these [patterns]." Each line models the dynamic interplay of Yin and Yang forces in a given position.
Further, the Xici states:
From Yijing · Xici
「爻者，言乎变者也。」
Plain translation
"Yao speaks of change." The lines are the language through which change is expressed and understood.
Positions and Meanings
In a hexagram, each of the six positions carries specific significance:
- Line 1 (bottom): Beginning, foundation, initial stage—often represents common people or starting conditions
- Line 2: Lower inner position—often represents officials or developing situations
- Line 3: Top of lower trigram—transition zone, often challenging or critical
- Line 4: Bottom of upper trigram—entering higher realm, often represents ministers or new responsibilities
- Line 5: Middle of upper trigram—the ruling position, often represents leaders or peak situations
- Line 6 (top): Culmination, excess, or transcendence—often represents sages or endings
Whether a Yang line sits in a Yang position (1, 3, 5—odd) or Yin position (2, 4, 6—even) affects the interpretation. A line "in its proper place" is generally more favorable.
How to Read It
Reading individual lines involves:
- Identify the line type: Yang (solid) or Yin (broken)
- Note the position: which of the six places (1-6, bottom to top)
- Check if it is a "moving line" (changing from Yin to Yang or vice versa)
- Read the line text (爻辞) from the classical I Ching
- Consider the relationship with other lines, especially corresponding positions
Corresponding lines
Lines 1 and 4, lines 2 and 5, lines 3 and 6 are "corresponding" pairs. Their relationship (both Yang, both Yin, or complementary) adds interpretive nuance.
How It Shows Up in FateFolio
In FateFolio's I Ching tool:
- Lines displayed clearly as solid (Yang) or broken (Yin)
- Position numbers shown for reference (1-6)
- Moving lines highlighted with transformation indicator
- Line texts provided for any moving lines in your reading
Common Misconceptions
Common misunderstandings about Yao lines:
- Thinking Yang is always "good" and Yin is always "bad"—both have appropriate contexts
- Ignoring line position when interpreting—position is crucial
- Reading only the moving lines without understanding the whole hexagram
- Treating line texts as literal predictions rather than symbolic guidance
Sources and Quotes
FAQ
What is the difference between a Yao and a trigram?
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A Yao is a single line—either solid (Yang) or broken (Yin). A trigram is a figure made of three Yao lines stacked together. There are 8 possible trigrams, and two trigrams combine to form a hexagram of 6 lines.
Think of Yao as letters, trigrams as words, and hexagrams as sentences.
Why does line position matter?
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Each of the six positions in a hexagram represents a different stage, role, or aspect of a situation. Position 1 is the beginning, position 5 is the peak of authority, and position 6 is the culmination or excess.
Additionally, whether a Yang line sits in a Yang position (odd: 1,3,5) or a Yin line in a Yin position (even: 2,4,6) affects whether the line is considered "correctly placed."