Every trigram has a positive (Yang) and negative (Yin) side. For example, the Qian trigram has the solid lines (☰) as its positive side and the broken lines (☷) as its opposite. These opposing forces reflect the dynamic balance of nature.

1. Qian (☰) – The Creative Yang side (Positive): Solid lines (☰) Yin side (Negative): Broken lines (☷) Explanation: The Qian trigram consists of three solid lines, representing pure Yang energy. This is a symbol of strength, creativity, and assertiveness. Its opposite, represented by three broken lines (☷), signifies Yin or receptive energy, which contrasts with the active, initiating force of Yang.

2. Kun (☷) – The Receptive Yang side (Positive): Broken lines (☷) Yin side (Negative): Solid lines (☰) Explanation: The Kun trigram consists of three broken lines, symbolizing pure Yin energy, which is passive, nurturing, and yielding. Its opposite, represented by solid lines (☰), embodies Yang energy, associated with action, strength, and leadership.

3. Zhen (☳) – Thunder Yang side (Positive): Solid line on top, broken lines below (☳) Yin side (Negative): Broken line on top, solid lines below (☷) Explanation: The Zhen trigram is composed of a solid line at the top and two broken lines beneath. The solid line represents the forceful, dynamic Yang aspect, while the broken lines beneath indicate the more receptive, Yin response. It symbolizes the power of movement and action, and the potential to break through obstacles.

4. Xun (☴) – Wind/Wood Yang side (Positive): Broken lines (☷) at top, solid line at bottom (☴) Yin side (Negative): Solid line at top, broken lines below (☳) Explanation: The Xun trigram is composed of two broken lines at the top and one solid line at the bottom. This signifies flexibility, adaptability, and the growth of wood. The Yang energy of the solid line represents support and foundation, while the Yin energy of the broken lines symbolizes the wind's fluidity and movement.

5. Kan (☵) – Water Yang side (Positive): Broken lines at the top and bottom, solid line in the middle (☵) Yin side (Negative): Solid line at top and bottom, broken line in the middle (☰) Explanation: The Kan trigram represents water and consists of a solid line between two broken lines. The broken lines symbolize the flow and depth of water, while the solid line signifies the presence of stability amidst fluidity. It embodies the balance of Yin (receptive) and Yang (action).

6. Li (☲) – Fire Yang side (Positive): Solid line at top and bottom, broken line in the middle (☲) Yin side (Negative): Broken line at top and bottom, solid line in the middle (☷) Explanation: The Li trigram represents fire and is characterized by a solid line at the top and bottom, with a broken line in the middle. The solid lines represent the Yang energy of fire, while the broken line in the center suggests Yin energy, as it provides balance to the forceful flames, symbolizing a controlled fire.

7. Gen (☶) – Mountain Yang side (Positive): Solid line at top, two broken lines beneath (☶) Yin side (Negative): Broken line at top, two solid lines beneath (☰) Explanation: The Gen trigram symbolizes mountain and stillness, with a solid line at the top and broken lines beneath. The solid line represents the grounded, unyielding nature of the mountain (a stable, Yang force), while the broken lines indicate the Yin energy of repose and resistance to change.

8. Dui (☱) – Lake/Marsh Yang side (Positive): Broken line at top, two solid lines beneath (☱) Yin side (Negative): Solid line at top, two broken lines beneath (☷) Explanation: The Dui trigram represents lake or marsh, which is associated with joy, communication, and clarity. The broken line at the top represents Yin energy (receptive), while the solid lines beneath signify Yang energy, the active and clear expression of joy or communication. Yin and Yang Dynamics in the Trigrams: Each trigram embodies a dynamic balance of Yin and Yang, and these forces interact to reflect the principles of opposites and complementarity that govern the universe. The Yin side tends to be more receptive, passive, nurturing, and yielding, while the Yang side is active, assertive, creative, and initiating. Together, they create a balance that drives change and transformation.

The Yin and Yang forces in each trigram reflect how opposite forces can coexist and even enhance one another, a key idea in the I Ching philosophy. The balance between these energies is the key to harmony and success in life.

These oppositions within each trigram show the cyclical nature of life, where one force (Yang or Yin) gives way to the other in a continuous process of transformation.