Hexagram 42
Increase (Gain)
益 (Yì)
Wind over Thunder
The image is of Wind and Thunder reinforcing each other. The energy of Thunder, rising from below, is given direction and scope by the Wind. This dynamic interplay symbolizes a natural and powerful period of growth and expansion. Energy is not only present but is being channeled effectively. This represents a time when conditions are ideal for development, and the efforts one makes will be augmented by the spirit of the time.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (彖传)
The Judgment is a powerful green light for action. This is a highly auspicious time, filled with energy for growth and success. You are encouraged to be bold and enterprising. "To undertake something" means now is the time to start new projects. "To cross the great water" is a metaphor for taking on significant challenges and risks. The cosmic tides are in your favor, so do not hesitate. Move forward with confidence.
The Image (象传)
The Image shows how to best use the dynamic energy of this time. Growth should not only be external but also internal. The superior person harnesses the momentum of Increase for rapid self-improvement. They actively look for good qualities in others to emulate and are equally swift to identify and correct their own flaws. A time of outer success is the perfect opportunity to cultivate inner virtue.
Interpretation & Guidance
Receiving Hexagram 42 is a sign that you have entered a period of growth, gain, and opportunity. Good fortune is not just possible, it is probable. This is not a time for passivity or hesitation. You are encouraged to be ambitious, to start new ventures, and to take on the challenges you have been contemplating. The energy of the time supports your efforts. It is also vital to use this period for self-development. Emulate the good you see around you and correct your own faults. Share your gains with others, as selfishly hoarding good fortune can cause it to sour.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Nine at the Beginning (初九)
Bottom line - Yang
"It furthers one to perform great deeds. Supreme good fortune. No blame."
You are in the perfect position to take action that will lead to great success. The time is ripe for a major undertaking. Act boldly and without hesitation. Your efforts are supported by the time and will lead to an excellent outcome for all.
Six in the Second Place (六二)
Second line - Yin
"Someone is certain to increase him. Ten pairs of tortoises cannot oppose it. Continual perseverance brings good fortune."
A great blessing or increase is coming your way, and it is so destined that nothing can stop it. This good fortune comes from an outside source. Your task is to remain steadfast and true to your principles to receive it worthily. Your virtue is being recognized.
Six in the Third Place (六三)
Third line - Yin
"One is enriched through unfortunate events. No blame, if you are sincere and walk in the middle way."
You may find yourself gaining from a difficult or unfortunate situation, perhaps one that brings loss to others. There is no blame in this, provided you act with complete sincerity and moderation, and do not exploit the situation. Maintain your integrity.
Six in the Fourth Place (六四)
Fourth line - Yin
"If you walk in the middle way and report to the prince, he will follow. It is favorable to be used in the removal of the capital."
As a trusted intermediary, your balanced and sincere advice will be heard by those in authority. Because of this trust, you are in a position to help facilitate major, transformative changes that will be of great benefit to all.
Nine in the Fifth Place (九五)
Fifth line - Yang
"If you have a sincere heart that seeks to benefit others, ask nothing. Supreme good fortune. Sincerity will be recognized as your virtue."
As a leader, your greatest strength is a genuine desire to help others. Act with generosity and a kind heart, without thought of personal gain. This selfless attitude itself is the source of the highest good fortune and will be recognized by all.
Top Nine (上九)
Top line - Yang
"He brings increase to no one. Indeed, someone even strikes him. He does not keep his heart constantly steady. Misfortune."
This is a strong warning. At the peak of success, there is a danger of becoming arrogant, greedy, and selfish. If you use your good fortune only for yourself and fail to share it, you will lose the support of others and invite attack. An unsteady, greedy heart in a time of increase leads to certain misfortune.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
This is a wonderful time for growth in a relationship. Your bond can deepen, and the partnership can expand in positive ways. It is an excellent time to take the relationship to the next level, such as through marriage, starting a family, or buying a home together. Be generous with your affection and support for your partner. A spirit of mutual benefit will make the relationship flourish now.
Career & Business (事业)
Increase is a clear green light for business expansion. The market is favorable, and opportunities are abundant. This is the time to launch new products, enter new markets, invest in growth, and hire new talent. Bold, well-planned initiatives are very likely to succeed. It is crucial to share the resulting prosperity with the employees and stakeholders who helped make it possible. Generosity fuels further growth.
Health & Wellness (健康)
This hexagram indicates a time of increasing vitality, energy, and physical well-being. Your life force is strong. It is an excellent time to begin a new fitness routine or health regimen, as your body will respond quickly and positively. Use this period of high energy to build habits that will create a lasting foundation of good health for the future.
Financial Matters (财运)
A period of financial growth, profit, and abundance is at hand. Investments should perform well, and new opportunities for increasing your income will appear. It is a time to be enterprising and to act on sound financial ideas. The hexagram advises using this increase for good. Invest in worthwhile projects and be generous to others. Hoarding wealth out of greed is warned against and can lead to a reversal of fortune.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
The lesson of Increase is to actively use favorable external conditions for internal development. When life is going well and opportunities abound, it is easy to become complacent. The superior person resists this. They use the positive energy of the time as fuel for self-improvement. They look for role models to imitate and are honest about their own faults, working swiftly to correct them. True growth marries outer success with inner progress.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
The time for hesitation is over. The time for bold action is now. Conditions are exceptionally favorable for new undertakings and for tackling major challenges. Trust your instincts and move forward with your plans. "Cross the great water." Do not let this auspicious moment pass by. Your efforts now are likely to meet with great success and bring significant increase.
