I Ching

Hexagram 42 — The Increase Yi

Hexagram 42, The Increase — the six lines

Classical meaning

Increase. It is favorable to undertake. It is favorable to cross the great river.

益。利有攸往。利涉大川。

Image: Wind over thunder: the image of increase. The superior man, upon seeing goodness, imitates it; seeing faults, corrects himself without delay.

It indicates a period of expansion, harvest, and reward for just actions.

The six lines

Line 1. Increase – It is favorable to undertake great works. Supreme fortune, without fault. Seize the momentum to begin something meaningful. Plan ambitiously and act with integrity.
Line 2. Increase – Perhaps they will add to you the turtle with ten pairs. It cannot be refused. Enduring constancy is auspicious. The king offers sacrifices to the Most High: auspicious. Accept the blessing with humility and uphold righteousness over time. Use the gain for the common good.
Line 3. Increase – To increase even in adverse matters. Without fault. With sincerity and the middle way. Inform the duke with the jade tablet. Face the problem with candor and proper protocol. Transparency with the authorities ensures protection.
Line 4. Increase – The middle path. Inform the duke, and he will follow. It is beneficial to use this as support to transform the State. Seek balance and express the plan with clarity. With legitimate support, structural changes become possible.
Line 5. Increase – With sincerity and a benevolent heart. Do not question: supreme fortune. With sincerity, it benefits our virtue. Act with genuine generosity without expecting return. Shared virtue multiplies fortune.
Line 6. Increase – There is no increase; perhaps there is a setback. The mind does not remain steady: misfortune. Maintain inner constancy. In times of pressure, lack of firmness invites losses.
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