Hexagram 46 - Pushing Upwards - SHÊNG

When we sincerely follow the guidance of the Sage, we align ourselves with the universe's natural order, and the cosmos responds by providing us with the support we need to achieve our goals.

Summary

Hexagram 46 is about pushing upward and making progress. The image of the hexagram is of a plant pushing through the earth to reach the light. The judgment for this hexagram is to "advance with firmness and perseverance." The key takeaways from this hexagram are that there is a need for steady and consistent effort to achieve success and that progress will come with time.

Interpretation

Represents growth and progress, symbolised by the image of a plant pushing through the earth to reach the light. It advises us to be patient, grounded, steadfast in our efforts, and humble and balanced in our pursuit of success. By dismantling our barriers and defences, holding to the great-man potential in others, and trusting in the leadership of the Sage, we can attain progress and good fortune. This requires the effort of will, adaptability, and tolerance towards others. It is a time to ask for help and meet everyone with gentle goodwill. The hexagram also reminds us of the importance of the natural growth and change process and the need for constant self-improvement.

In ancient China, the idea of pushing upward was associated with climbing the ranks of society and achieving success and status. The hexagram was a reminder of the importance of hard work, perseverance, and humility. It also represents the Taoist principle of natural growth and change. In contemporary times, it is interpreted as a reminder of the importance of progress and constant self-improvement. Other interpretations include the idea of spiritual ascent or enlightenment, in which one rises above the distractions and temptations of the material world to attain a higher level of understanding or consciousness.

Sage Advice

Additionally, the hexagram suggests the importance of self-examination and self-improvement. To make progress, we must be willing to look within ourselves and make the necessary changes to our attitudes and behaviours. This requires humility and a willingness to be open to feedback and constructive criticism. Another key lesson from the hexagram is the importance of balance. We must strive to balance ambition and patience, assertiveness and humility. We must be willing to take small steps towards our goals rather than trying to make giant leaps that may ultimately lead to failure.

The advice from hexagram 46 is to remain steadfast and persistent in pursuing our goals while maintaining a humble and open-minded attitude. We must be willing to learn from our mistakes and be open to feedback while remaining patient and persistent in facing obstacles. By doing so, we can make steady progress towards our goals and ultimately achieve success.

Line 1

Suggests that confidence for pushing upward is not found in our egos but in our relationship with the Sage. To maintain spiritual fitness and receive the help of the Higher Power, we must stay aware of our inner feelings and remain humble and sincere. This line emphasises the importance of seeking guidance and support from a higher power or spiritual teacher rather than relying solely on our abilities or ego-driven motivations. As above, so below, our connection to the divine or higher wisdom reflects our confidence in our ability to push upward and progress in our spiritual journey.

Line 2

Reminds us that sincerity is vital to progress. While ambition to achieve our goals can be a strong motivator, it can also interfere with our ability to be patient and focused on the necessary steps. We must resist the temptation to look too far ahead and remain purposeful. If we sacrifice our ambition and approach our tasks with humility, we can make progress without causing harm. It is also important to note that seeking recognition or calling attention to our good behaviour is ineffective in creating change. Actual progress can only be achieved by aligning our character with ethical principles and maintaining a sense of humility and equanimity.

Line 3

We encounter a situation where there are no obstacles to progress. However, it is also a time when we may struggle with our ego and inner conflicts, which can hinder our ability to move forward. The I Ching suggests that we should not be discouraged by this and instead focus on further developing ourselves and our alignment with the Sage. Our success in this situation will depend on our connection with the Sage and our willingness to work on our inner growth.

Line 4

Signifies the achievement of success through sincere efforts towards self-improvement and self-examination. By being diligent and conscientious in our inner work, we attain the assistance of a higher power. This line also represents the confirmation of our spiritual existence and growth due to our sincere efforts towards self-improvement.

Line 5

In the process of self-improvement and progress, it is essential to recognise that it is not a one-time giant leap but a series of small steps. Each step is significant, and each has its unique beginning, middle, and end. Focusing on each step and not overly concerned with the result is necessary. When the opportunity for progress presents itself, it should be taken, but knowing when to withdraw and renew oneself is equally important. Striving to prolong or maximize the moment may result in resistance to progress. The measure of success is not in visible changes but in standing firm and correct during challenges. We should be patient with others' progress, as they need time and space to digest knowledge at their own pace. It is also crucial to maintain reserve until the other person has completed the many steps of self-development needed to guarantee their continued progress.

Line 6

Cautions against blindly pushing forward without consideration of inner independence and humility. It reminds us that opportunities to relate to others creatively and constructively occur only during brief moments of mutual humility and receptivity. Once our ego and ambition become involved, we can no longer hear our inner voice, and our personality "splits apart". We must remain alert when these moments open and disengage before impatience and alienation intrude. It is essential to maintain steadfastness and retreat after advances rather than acting when we should hold back or speaking when we should keep still. The Sixth Line advises us to disengage ego and ambition and to value inner independence as our most valuable asset.