What this change means
Here the top line moves, and it's the warning line of Increase. Wind above turns to water, clouds gathering over thunder. The line says that growth stops when no one adds to it and someone strikes instead, and that happens when you turn selfish, keep your gains to yourself, or stop watching your words. A heart set on something but unsteady invites misfortune. The resulting hexagram, 3 Initial Obstacles, shows what follows: a hard beginning, when acting directly doesn't work and you need allies to represent you, while staying alert for when to take back the initiative. The lesson is plain. If gains are slipping, look first at your generosity and your speech. Share more, speak with care, and be consistent. Rebuild trust through others who can vouch for you, and wait for the right moment to lead again.
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 42 Increase
If you become selfish, hoard your achievements and gains for yourself alone, and don't watch your words, this time of growth won't last long.
No one adds to it; someone strikes it. The heart is set, but without steadiness. Misfortune.
- The judgment of 42 Increase
You're in a time of gain and growth: your projects will grow and prosper. At times like this it's important to keep your inner integrity, follow the example of people who have the qualities you want to gain, and get rid of the traits that have caused you trouble before. Overall, it's a time of achievement and generosity.
It is favorable to have somewhere to go. It is favorable to cross the great river.
- The judgment of 3 Initial Obstacles
This isn't the time to act directly: look for people who can act for you, allies who represent you. Still, stay alert so you know when the time comes to take back the initiative and control.
Great success. Constancy is favorable. Having somewhere to go is of no use yet. It is favorable to install lords.
The trigrams
The way back
3 Initial Obstacles → 42 Increaseline 6
Other transformations of Increase
Make your own cast
The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.