Hexagram 42 of 64
益
Increase
Yì
Upper Trigram
巽
Wind
Gentle, Penetrating
Wind/Wood · Eldest Daughter
Lower Trigram
震
Thunder
Arousing, Movement
Thunder · Eldest Son
The Judgment
Increase. It furthers one to undertake something. It furthers one to cross the great water.
Wind above thunder — both increase each other's force. This is a time of genuine growth and expansion. Heaven decreases to increase the earth; the ruler diminishes themselves to benefit the people. Use this time of increase for significant undertakings.
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.
The person who increases themselves continually — absorbing good from every direction, shedding what diminishes — embodies the spirit of this hexagram.
The Six Lines
Line 1
It furthers one to accomplish great deeds. Supreme good fortune. No blame.
The moment of increase is the moment for great action. Hesitation wastes the gift.
Line 2
Someone does indeed increase them; ten pairs of tortoises cannot oppose it. Constant perseverance brings good fortune. The king presents him before God. Good fortune.
Heaven-sent increase, supported by constant faithfulness, brings the highest recognition and the most auspicious outcomes.
Line 3
One is enriched through unfortunate events. No blame, if you are sincere and walk in the middle, and report with a seal to the prince.
Even painful events can bring unexpected enrichment. Honest reporting of what happened, without spin, is the right response.
Line 4
If you walk in the middle and report to the prince, he will follow. It furthers one to be used in the removal of the capital.
Walking the middle way and keeping those above informed earns the trust needed for major undertakings.
Line 5
If in truth you have a kind heart, ask not. Supreme good fortune. Truly, kindness will be recognized as your virtue.
Genuine benevolence needs no advertising. Act from a kind heart and the recognition comes of itself.
Line 6
He brings increase to no one. Indeed, someone even strikes him. He does not keep his heart constantly steady. Misfortune.
Increase that benefits no one, hoarded in isolation, ultimately attracts resentment and attack. Share the increase or lose everything.
For contemplation and self-reflection only. Not a substitute for professional advice.