Yi Jing · Chinese tarot
Increase
Hexagram 42 of the Yi Jing · 益 Yì
The figure
Wind above Thunder: breath and movement amplifying each other. The image of increase, of the force that gives downward.
What this figure illuminates
Increase lights up fertile times, when giving makes things grow. True increase is not accumulation: it is a generous movement that enriches by circulating.
For a decision, the figure invites you to seize a favorable moment to undertake and to give: “what asks to be sown now, while the season is carrying?”.
The classical text
The Judgment
Increase: it furthers to undertake something; it furthers to cross the great stream. The time gives, so act.
The Image
Wind and thunder strengthen each other, each lending the other force. Seeing this, the noble person moves toward the good they see, and turns from their own faults.
The Six Lines
- First line
The moment lends you strength for a great undertaking. If it succeeds greatly, no blame — but only greatness justifies it.
- Second line
Increase pressed on you as if by fate, not to be refused. Persevere, firm and correct — good fortune.
- Third line
Even hard, unwelcome events can enrich you, turned toward good. Held in sincerity and the middle way, no blame.
- Fourth line
Walking the right middle course, your counsel is heeded. You can be trusted even with a great and weighty change.
- Fifth line
A sincere heart that seeks to benefit all. No need to ask the outcome — great good fortune, and your kindness is felt.
- Sixth line
You give to no one, and now none add to you — many turn against you. A heart set only on itself invites misfortune.
Daoa's wording, written after the classical reference translations, now in the public domain: James Legge (1882) and Charles de Harlez (1889).
A question to keep
What asks to be sown now, while the season is carrying?
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