Hexagram 55
Abundance (Fullness)
丰 (Fēng)
Thunder over Fire
The image is of Thunder and lightning arriving together. This represents a moment of maximum brilliance, energy, and clarity. The movement and power of Thunder are combined with the clarity and light of Fire, creating a spectacular display. This symbolizes the very peak of prosperity, cultural achievement, and success. It is like the sun at high noon—a moment of ultimate fullness and power.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (彖传)
This hexagram promises great success and the attainment of a peak state. A wise and active leader ("the king") can bring about such a time of abundance. The crucial advice is not to worry or be sad that this peak moment is temporary. Instead, one should fully inhabit it, like the sun at its zenith, generously shining its light and warmth on everyone and everything. The greatness of the moment lies in its magnificent, selfless radiance.
The Image (象传)
A time of abundance is not just about material wealth; it is also a time of great clarity. The brilliant flash of lightning illuminates everything, and the decisive clap of thunder brings matters to a conclusion. The superior man uses this moment of supreme clarity to adjudicate difficult cases and carry out justice fairly and decisively. He brings order to the kingdom through his clear and powerful judgments.
Interpretation & Guidance
You have reached a peak moment in your life or in a particular endeavor. This is a time of great success, influence, and abundance. The key to handling this good fortune is to act like a wise king: be decisive, clear in your judgments, and above all, generous. Share your success, your knowledge, and your resources with others. Radiate your light. Do not hoard your good fortune or become anxious about it fading. By emulating the sun at midday, you make the most of this powerful time for the benefit of all.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Nine at the Beginning (初九)
Bottom line - Yang
"When a man meets his destined ruler, they can be together for ten days, and it is not a mistake."
You encounter a person or situation that is perfectly aligned with you. Seize this opportunity for partnership. Even if the period of perfect union is limited, it is a correct and beneficial connection that will lead to success.
Six in the Second Place (六二)
Second line - Yin
"The curtain is of such fullness that the polestars can be seen at noon. Through going one meets with mistrust... If one rouses him through truth, good fortune comes."
The leader or the truth is being obscured by intrigue (a "curtain" causing a midday eclipse). This breeds suspicion. To break through this darkness, you must act with absolute sincerity and truth. Flattery will fail, but genuine earnestness will be recognized and lead to good fortune.
Nine in the Third Place (九三)
Third line - Yang
"The underbrush is of such fullness that the small stars can be seen at noon. He breaks his right arm. No blame."
The darkness and confusion (the eclipse) are now so thick that you are rendered powerless, like a man with a broken arm. There is nothing you can do in this situation. Your inability to act is due to external circumstances, so you are not to blame.
Nine in the Fourth Place (九四)
Fourth line - Yang
"The curtain is of such fullness... He meets his ruler, who is of like kind. Good fortune."
In the midst of the confusing darkness, you find a wise and powerful ally who is your equal. By joining forces with this person, you can navigate the difficult time together and bring about a successful outcome. Good fortune comes through this partnership.
Six in the Fifth Place (六五)
Fifth line - Yin
"He brings helpers. This means blessing and praise. Good fortune."
As a modest and wise leader, you are not proud but are open to receiving help and advice from talented people. By attracting and welcoming these helpers, you bring blessings, acclaim, and success to your endeavors. Your receptivity is your strength.
Top Six (上六)
Top line - Yin
"His house is in a state of abundance. He screens off his family... For three years he sees nothing. Misfortune."
This is a warning. At the height of your success, you become arrogant and isolate yourself from your family and community. This prideful isolation leads to your downfall. You become completely cut off and blind. To hoard abundance and cut oneself off from others leads to certain misfortune.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
This hexagram can signify a peak moment in a relationship—a time of great joy, passion, and shared prosperity, like a "honeymoon phase." The advice is to enjoy this fullness of connection without becoming anxious about its future. Be generous with your love and appreciation. However, it also warns against the "eclipse" of isolation, where one or both partners withdraw into their own worlds, which can bring an end to the period of abundance.
Career & Business (事业)
This is a sign of peak business success. Your company is flourishing, your career is at its zenith, and you have significant influence. It is a time of magnificent achievement. The crucial advice for a leader is to use this moment of clarity and power to make fair decisions and to generously share the company's prosperity with the team. Avoid arrogance and isolation at the top, as this will lead to the company's decline.
Health & Wellness (健康)
Abundance signifies a time of peak physical energy and vitality. You are at the height of your powers. Enjoy this feeling of strength and well-being. Use this abundant energy to establish positive, lasting health habits. The cautionary aspect is not to burn out. Like the sun at noon, the only way is down, so do not over-exert yourself or take your health for granted. Balance activity with rest.
Financial Matters (财运)
This is a time of great financial prosperity. Your investments have reached their peak, and your income is at its highest. You have plenty. The advice of the sage is clear: be like the sun at midday. Do not hoard this wealth or become anxious about losing it. Be generous. Use your financial power to help others and to support worthy causes. This generosity is the proper way to handle abundance.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
The lesson of Abundance is about how to gracefully handle peak moments in life. Growth is not only about overcoming hardship but also about managing success with wisdom. It is the ability to be powerful without being arrogant, to be prosperous without being greedy, and to be generous with your gifts. It is about understanding that all things are cyclical, and therefore to inhabit the present moment of fullness without sadness, shining your brightest for the benefit of all.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
You are at a zenith. This is a moment of power, clarity, and success. The time is right for decisive action and clear judgments. Your primary task is to manage this abundance wisely. Be generous, be magnanimous, and share your good fortune. Do not worry that the peak will pass; instead, act like the sun at midday and radiate your light fully.
