Transformation · lines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
Advance becomes Small Things
What this change means
Only the top line stays still while the other five move. Earth becomes Heaven below, Fire becomes Wind above: wind across the sky, gathering clouds that don't rain yet. That one unmoving line of the resulting hexagram, 9 Small Things, is where the counsel lies. Its top line says you get what you want through step-by-step work, but warns you not to rest on your laurels: you still need to stay constant and keep working little by little. From Advance, with its bright help and recognition, this is a reminder that the advance is made of small pieces. Some obstacles remain, and the time for large-scale action may not have come yet. Celebrate what you've reached, then go back to the steady work. Watch for coasting once things look good.
What to read, in order
Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.
- Line 6 of 9 Small Things, which stays still
You get what you want thanks to step-by-step work. Still, don't rest on your laurels: you have to stay constant and keep working little by little.
The rain has come, the rest has come. Virtue has piled up like a load. The wife's constancy is in danger. The moon is nearly full. For the noble person, setting out brings misfortune.
- The judgment of 35 Advance
A time of growth and achievement is coming, and you should make the most of it. You'll receive help and favors from important people. If you need something, don't hesitate to ask: doors will open for you. Your talents are recognized, and just as you receive help, it's also a time to contribute to the growth and betterment of others.
The lord of Kang is granted horses in great numbers; in a single day he is received three times.
- Line 1 of 35 Advance
If you don't get the help you need, don't keep looking for it in that place. Open yourself to other possibilities that will come your way.
Advancing, and pushed back. Constancy brings good fortune. If there is no trust, stay easy: no fault.
- Line 2 of 35 Advance
Even if at first you don't get help from the person you asked, don't be sad. Stay open and keep at it, and that same person will give you the help you need and deserve.
Advancing, and grieving. Constancy brings good fortune. This great blessing is received from their grandmother.
- Line 3 of 35 Advance
You move forward together, with the support of others, and they'll back you in the areas where you find it hard to advance.
All agree. Regret vanishes.
- Line 4 of 35 Advance
As you advance, it's important not to pile up wealth or power just for your own benefit, because that will block your progress.
Advancing like a field rat. Constancy is in danger.
- Line 5 of 35 Advance
To advance and, as you do, to contribute to others is a sign of greatness, and it will keep your progress going. There's no reason to regret what you've given along the way.
Regret vanishes. Loss or gain: don't be troubled. Going brings good fortune. Nothing that is not favorable.
- The judgment of 9 Small Things
You're facing a situation that promises success, but it isn't time yet. There are still obstacles on the way that you need to resolve. For now you can take small actions and wait for the right moment to act on a large scale.
Success. Dense clouds and no rain, from my western outskirts.
The trigrams
The way back
9 Small Things → 35 Advancelines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
Other transformations of Advance
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.