ChineseStudy

42. Yi | Increase

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English translation

Yi / Increase: it is beneficial to have somewhere to go, it is beneficial to cross the great river.

This is the judgment of Yi (Increase), setting the overall situation and guiding principle for the whole hexagram. “crossing the great river” suggests undertaking a difficult but meaningful passage; “having somewhere to go” means forward action is fitting.

First Nine: It is fitting to undertake great action; this is highly auspicious and brings no blame.

The first line is the lowest position, where a situation is just beginning and its strength is still forming. “no blame” means avoiding fault, not necessarily winning great success; “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction.

Second Six: A gift of the ten-coin tortoise may be added and cannot be refused. Constant steadiness is auspicious; the king may offer sacrifice to Heaven, also auspicious.

The second line often suggests a central and emerging position: no longer hidden, but not yet in command. “constancy” means holding to what is correct over time; “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction.

Third Six: Increase can be made even through dangerous affairs; there is no blame if there is sincerity. One should follow the middle course and report to the ruler with the ritual tablet.

The third line stands at the end of the lower trigram, where effort and pressure increase and caution becomes important. “sincerity” points to trustworthiness and inner confidence; “no blame” means avoiding fault, not necessarily winning great success; “misfortune” marks serious risk.

Fourth Six: Walk the middle path, report to the lord, and follow. It is fitting to relocate and rely on moving a country.

The fourth line enters the upper trigram and marks a threshold between holding back and advancing. The image should be read as a concrete way of describing the situation before choosing how to act.

Fifth Nine: There is sincere faith and a benevolent heart. Do not be inconsistent; this is very auspicious. Sincere faith also brings benefit to one’s virtue.

The fifth line is near the honored position, where influence can be exercised if power remains aligned with what is right. “sincerity” points to trustworthiness and inner confidence; “auspicious” indicates a favorable direction.

Top Nine: Let no one seek to increase it further, or there may be retaliation. If the mind is not constant, danger results.

The top line is the end of the hexagram's movement, often warning about excess, culmination, or the need to change course. “misfortune” marks serious risk.

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