Hexagram 42 - Increase - I

Amidst life's chaos and challenges, it can be easy to get swept up in our desires and wants. However, when we trust the universe and recognise the help available, we can keep our hearts steady and free of the distractions that come with desire. 

Summary

Hexagram 42, Increase, represents a time of growth and expansion. The key takeaways from the judgment and image are that this growth should be done gradually and steadily and that it should be based on proper foundations.

Interpretation

Increase represents a time of powerful movement towards improvement, with the help of the Higher Power. This assistance gives us a feeling of inner and outer independence, and progress becomes easier than before. However, we must be careful not to become careless or indifferent, as this time does not last forever. We must maintain a steady attitude of inner independence, humility, and conscientiousness to make the most of this time of Increase.

During this phase, we should also sacrifice for others, embodying generosity in thought and action, forgiving what is inferior, and seeking out the good. By giving, encouraging, and assisting, we draw out the superior person in everyone into devoted action. We should also strive for self-improvement, eliminating any inferior traits we discover and imitating the good in others. Through service and self-improvement, we can ensure significant progress in the future.

The hexagram suggests that growth should be achieved through a balance of stillness and movement, focusing on building a solid foundation. The image of a mountain growing taller represents gradual and steady progress. We must be aware of our limitations and maintain a stable attitude to make the most of this time of Increase.

Sage Advice

The first and most crucial step is recognising and accepting our limitations and working within them rather than striving for excess. This requires humility and a focus on what is essential in our lives.

In addition, we must cultivate inner harmony and strive for balance and stability. This means being open to the help and support of others, as well as being receptive to the natural flow of life. Instead of resisting change, we must learn to go with the flow and allow ourselves to be guided by the universe. The hexagram also emphasises the importance of patience and persistence in achieving our goals. Rather than seeking sudden or drastic changes, we should focus on steady growth and development. At the same time, we must maintain a balance between giving and receiving and avoid becoming arrogant or complacent about our success.

Finally, we must be aware of our environment and the people around us, as they can play a significant role in our progress and growth. By staying grounded, maintaining a sense of inner balance, and being open to the help of others, we can achieve lasting success and fulfilment in our lives.

Line 1

Increase reminds us that our good fortune puts us in a position to accomplish great deeds. However, it also cautions against using our power and position to disadvantage others. True greatness is achieved by remaining humble and blameless, holding on to universal truths, and negotiating from this basis. It is essential to not focus on the faults of others or give up on them but to hold our minds open to their potential. This line also suggests that because this is a time of Increase, we have room for mistakes and can correct ourselves without harm. The first line of this hexagram speaks to the importance of using our current advantages for the greater good rather than for personal gain at the expense of others. It reminds us that true greatness lies in our ability to remain humble and compassionate and to recognise the potential in others. Additionally, the line suggests that we should not be too hard on ourselves for mistakes, as we have room to grow and improve during this time of Increase.

Line 2

Advises us that constant perseverance will lead to good fortune. When we choose to follow the path of the good for its own sake, we come into harmony with the Creative and find the strength to overcome doubt and fear. Instead of simply trying to be released from the oppressions of a cruel fate, we must work towards loving and following the good. Cosmic law will then ensure that what we have lost will be restored. Nothing can prevent us from achieving our aims if we keep our hearts steady and remain committed to pursuing the good and true. The Sage or king will advocate for us before God, and we will be granted the blessings of good fortune.

Line 3

This line suggests that while unfortunate events may occur, we can still benefit from them and find enrichment through our experiences. By remaining true to our inner selves and quietly following the path of inner truth, we can turn adversity into an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. It is essential to stay focused and persevere in facing difficulties, as these challenges can ultimately lead us to a greater sense of wisdom and understanding.

Line 4

The role of a wise intermediary is crucial in this time of growth and progress. By embodying the qualities of dedication, responsibility, and sincerity and remaining detached and impartial, one can assist others in achieving their goals. It is crucial to avoid the temptation to prioritise personal desires over the needs of others and to remain focused on the path of service and self-improvement.

Line 5

In this time of Increase and growth, genuine kindness and compassion towards others are of utmost importance. It should come from a place of inner necessity and spontaneity rather than from a desire for recognition or influence over others. Act with integrity and hold true to our principles, even when we encounter challenges or difficult situations. We should strive to be patient, moderate, and just in our interactions with others and not require apologies or penitence before extending forgiveness. By embodying genuine kindness and compassion, we can positively impact those around us and contribute to our community's overall growth and improvement.

Line 6

Emphasises the importance of helping those below us to maintain our foundation of success. Failing to do so can weaken our position and leave us vulnerable to hostile forces. The time of Increase only continues if we remain balanced, generous, and correct in our actions. It is essential to maintain our modesty and inner independence and to keep our hearts steady and our values true. True success and fulfilment come from helping others and remaining true to our principles, not from using our power to put others at a disadvantage.