Hexagram 14 - Possession in Great Measure - TA YU

By embracing balance, humility, and the teachings of the Sage, one shall inherit all that the universe has to offer. This is the reward of a life aligned with the greater good.

Summary

This represents a state of abundance and possession in great measure. The image of the hexagram is that of a lake above and a mountain below, signifying a state of stillness and tranquillity. The key takeaways from the judgment of this hexagram are to use this abundance wisely and to be modest in one's behaviour.

Interpretation

This represents a state of abundance and inner peace achieved through balance and harmony. It advises on the importance of maintaining humility, modesty, and generosity in the face of abundance and using one's resources to help others and maintain stability. The ancient Chinese saw this hexagram as a symbol of good fortune and blessing from the gods, and it was often consulted by rulers seeking guidance on how to use their resources for the benefit of their people. The hexagram symbolises the balance of stillness and strength, represented by the lake and mountain, respectively. It also represents unity and cooperation and the importance of being part of a larger group or community. The relationship between the ruler and subjects can also be seen in this hexagram, with the ruler being the upper trigram and the subjects being the lower trigram.

In terms of personal growth and spiritual development, possession, in great measure, represents the state of inner independence and self-possession achieved through conscientious effort and service to the true and good. It is a time of great power and clarity, where one's thoughts, actions, and attitudes have been purified, leading to a far-reaching influence on others. The I Ching advises that it is essential to remain modest, balanced, and in harmony with the universe to maintain success and prosperity. Different interpretations and perspectives on Hexagram 14 may vary, but they all emphasise the importance of balance, humility, and cooperation in achieving inner peace and abundance.

Sage Advice

Encourages one to trust their inner truth and be guided by their inner voice. It highlights the importance of avoiding arrogance and remaining mindful of the consequences of one's actions. One can navigate life's challenges with grace and integrity by tapping into one's inner wisdom. The sage advice of this hexagram emphasises the need for humility, modesty, and a balance between humility and assertiveness. It also stresses the importance of being prepared for potential danger, staying true to oneself and one's principles, and being willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. The key message is to trust in the natural order of things and to remain steadfast in one's principles while navigating the complexities of life.

Line 1

Warns of potential challenges to one's inner peace. The I Ching advises remaining humble, detached, and aware of any negative influences that may arise. This way, one's greatest possession, the state of being in harmony with the universe, will endure. It is essential not to let oneself be tempted to stop and bask in the momentary joys of life. The I Ching teaches that seeking to hold onto pleasure only leads to its loss. Joy should be received as a gift and let go, resulting from having the right relationship with the situation. This mindset allows for more gifts to come in the future. One must also be careful not to let their newfound independence and self-discipline lead to arrogance or presumptuous behaviour. This can awaken the egos of others and create challenges to one's peace of mind. The way of the I Ching is always to move forward and not dwell on past successes. Remain humble, detached, and aware of negative influences while embracing joy as a gift and letting it go to allow for more blessings to come.

Line 2

Highlights the significance of having inner peace, humility, and self-reliance. These traits bring stability to one's life and attract positive energies and opportunities for growth and success. These qualities make it possible to embark on new endeavours and face challenges confidently, knowing that any mistakes will be corrected through the guidance of unseen forces. With equanimity, modesty, and inner independence, one can explore new paths and experience good luck.

Line 3

This line reminds us that success is not measured by material wealth or power but by our positive impact on others. The actual test of a great leader is their willingness to make sacrifices for the greater good. By giving of oneself, one demonstrates that they are a faithful servant of the people and that they have the strength of character to put aside their desires for the benefit of others. In the I Ching, sacrifice is not seen as a loss but as a way to reach a higher level of understanding and spiritual growth. When we let go of our attachment to material possessions or power, we free ourselves from the limitations of the ego and open ourselves up to the wisdom of the Sage. This is the path to true success and inner peace. In this line, the prince who offers his possessions to the Son of Heaven is symbolically offering his wealth and power to the forces of good. By doing so, he demonstrates his humility, devotion to the greater good, and commitment to the I Ching principles. This is a powerful example of how true success is not found through material gain but through selflessness, generosity, and a commitment to the path of the Sage.

Line 4

It is crucial to resist the urge to conform to societal norms and expectations. Instead, trust your instincts and inner guidance, and distinguish yourself from those around you by following your path. Do not waste time and energy comparing yourself to others or trying to compete with those who seem to have more influence. Your inner truth holds immense power, and it is essential to stay focused on your journey, letting go of distractions and external comparisons. Remember, true elevation comes from embracing your individuality and holding steadfast to your values and beliefs.

Line 5

Having a dignified and accessible understanding of the truth brings good fortune. It is crucial to avoid being overly friendly in sharing your insights, as this can lead to being taken advantage of and potentially reversing the positive impact of your actions. Instead, share your truth modestly and genuinely with those truly interested.

Line 6

By being mindful of your actions and holding to your principles, you will quickly attract divine blessings and progress. Your unwavering dedication to the teachings of the I Ching and your conscientiousness will keep negativity and doubt at bay, leading to a sense of joy and fulfilment in your endeavours.