Hexagram 42 益 - Yì / INCREASE
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Trigrams#
- Above: Xùn, the Gentle, Wind
- Below: Zhèn, the Arousing, Thunder
The concept of increase is illustrated by the lowest strong line of the upper trigram moving down to place itself beneath the lower trigram. This approach reflects the fundamental principle of the Book of Changes: true ruling must be a form of service. A sacrifice made by the higher that brings about an increase for the lower is called absolute increase, highlighting the spirit that alone can truly aid the world.
The Judgment#
Increase. It is favorable to undertake something. It is favorable to cross the great water.
When sacrifice is made from above to increase the lower, a spirit of joy and gratitude spreads among the people, which is incredibly valuable for the prosperity of the community. When people are so devoted to their leaders, great things can be accomplished, and even difficult, perilous undertakings will succeed. Therefore, in such rising times, marked by successful development, one must work and make full use of the opportunity. This period resembles the time when heaven and earth unite, when the earth shares in the creative power of heaven to form and give life to all living things. The time of increase does not last forever, so it must be utilized while it is here.
The Image#
Wind and thunder: the image of Increase. Thus the superior person: if they see good, they imitate it; if they have faults, they rid themselves of them.
By observing how thunder and wind reinforce and increase one another, one learns the path to self-increase and self-improvement. Discovering something good in others should inspire imitation, making all goodness on earth one’s own. Spotting a flaw within oneself demands that it be cast off. In doing so, one becomes free from evil. This ethical transformation represents the most vital increase of character.
The Individual Lines#
Nine at the beginning means:#
It is favorable to accomplish great deeds. Supreme good fortune. No blame.
Experiencing great encouragement and promotion from above means you should use this newfound strength to achieve something grand, for which you otherwise might have lacked either the power or the willingness to take responsibility. By remaining free from selfishness, supreme good fortune is achieved, and by bringing about such great success, you stay free from reproach.
Six in the second place means:#
Someone certainly increases him. Ten pairs of tortoises cannot oppose this. Constant perseverance brings good fortune. The king presents him before God. Good fortune!
True increase happens because you cultivate the necessary inner conditions: receptivity and a love for what is good. Consequently, what you strive for comes naturally, by a law of nature. When increase aligns so perfectly with the highest cosmic laws, no chance combination of events can block it. Everything depends on not becoming careless through unexpected luck; instead, you must make it your own through inner strength and steadfastness. Then you gain significance before God and humanity, and you can accomplish meaningful work for the benefit of the world.
Six in the third place means:#
One is increased through unfortunate events. No blame if you are sincere and walk in the middle path, reporting to the prince with a seal.
A time of blessing and enrichment is so powerful in its effect that even otherwise unfortunate events work for the benefit of those affected. They become free from errors, and by acting in accordance with the truth, they gain such inner authority that they exert influence as if confirmed by letter and seal.
Six in the fourth place means:#
If you walk in the middle path and report to the prince, he will follow. It is favorable to be used in moving the capital.
It is crucial that there are individuals who act as mediators between leaders and followers. These must be selfless personalities, especially in times of increase, when the leader’s aim is to benefit the people. None of this blessing should be selfishly held back; it must truly reach those for whom it is intended. Such a mediating personality, who also exerts a positive influence on the leader, is particularly important during times of major, future-shaping undertakings that require the inner consent of all involved.
Nine in the fifth place means:#
If you truly have a kind heart, do not ask. Supreme good fortune! Sincerity will recognize kindness as your virtue.
True kindness does not calculate or question worthiness and gratitude; it flows from inner necessity. Such a truly kind heart finds its reward in being recognized, allowing its blessed influence to expand without hindrance.
Nine at the top means:#
He brings increase to no one. Someone may even strike him. He does not keep his heart steady. Misfortune!
The meaning of the situation is that those above should increase those below through self-denial. By neglecting this duty and helping no one, you cut yourself off from the supportive influence of others and soon find yourself isolated. This invites attacks. A mindset that does not remain in harmony with the demands of the time will inevitably bring misfortune.
Confucius says regarding this line: “The superior person brings peace to his person before moving; he composes his mind before speaking; he secures his relationships before asking for something. By putting these three matters in order, the superior person is in complete safety. If one is abrupt in his movements, people will not cooperate. If one is agitated in his words, they find no echo among the people. If one asks for something without prior relationships, people will not give it. If no one stands with him, those who cause harm will approach.”
Reference links#
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