Transformation · lines 1, 2, and 4

Advance becomes Decrease

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Three lines move, the first, second and fourth, turning the lower Earth into Lake and the upper Fire into Mountain. The bright time of Advance meets a call for restraint. On one side stands the promise of the starting hexagram: growth, recognition, doors opening, help from people of influence, and the invitation to help others grow. On the other stands 41 Decrease, which asks for moderation and saving, conserving resources and energy while you prepare for larger projects. Holding both, you can read this as growth that needs a lean season to become solid. Accept the help that comes, but don't spend it all at once, and avoid excess of every kind. A period of growth tends to follow careful saving. Watch the gap between how good things look and what you can actually sustain, and stay within it.

What to read, in order

Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.

  1. 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.

  2. The judgment of 41 Decrease

    It's a time for moderation and saving: conserving your resources and energy matters a great deal now. A period of growth will follow, but for now you need to stay aware and avoid excess of every kind while you get ready to take on big projects.

    There is sincere trust. Great good fortune. No fault. Constancy is possible. It is favorable to have somewhere to go. What to offer? Two bowls will do for the offering.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

The trigrams

Below Earth Lake
Above Fire Mountain

The way back

41 Decrease → 35 Advance
lines 1, 2, and 4

Other transformations of Advance

Make your own cast

The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.

Toss the coins