Transformation · lines 1, 3, 5, and 6

Thrift becomes Loss, Then Gain

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Wind blows at the foot of the mountain, stirring what's gone stale: four lines change, and thrift becomes 18 Loss, Then Gain. The two still lines guide the reading, the second and the fourth. The second says the losses come from weakness, from failing to persevere, and that reflection plus a resolute return to the path brings success. The fourth warns that letting stronger personalities steer you, out of a weak character, won't lead to success. So the issue isn't lack of resources but lack of firmness. Measure has to include holding your ground. Look honestly at where you gave up too soon or let others decide for you. Then recommit, with your own judgment in charge. Admitting the mistake is the first gain; persevering is what turns the loss around.

What to read, in order

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

  1. Line 2 of 18 Loss, Then Gain, which stays still

    Your losses come from weakness, from not persevering. Reflecting and taking up the path again with resolve will bring success.

    Setting right what the mother spoiled. Constancy will not do.

  2. Line 4 of 18 Loss, Then Gain, which stays still

    If you show a weak character and keep letting stronger personalities lead you, you won't succeed.

    Indulging what the father spoiled. Going on: distress.

  3. The judgment of 60 Thrift

    It's a time to conserve your time, energy and resources so you're ready for what lies ahead. If you do, when challenges arrive you'll be prepared and will overcome them easily.

    Success. Bitter measure cannot be kept up with constancy.

  4. Line 1 of 60 Thrift

    Watch for the signs that tell you when it's time to stop.

    Does not leave the courtyard inside the door. No fault.

  5. Line 3 of 60 Thrift

    When you can't hold yourself back and set limits, you bring on trouble. If you recognize it and do something about it, you'll get past the obstacles.

    One without measure will sigh afterward. No fault.

  6. Line 5 of 60 Thrift

    Accept the restrictions of the moment for yourself too, not only for others; this will lead you to success.

    Sweet measure. Good fortune. Going earns esteem.

  7. Line 6 of 60 Thrift

    There are times when restrictions that seem extreme are called for. This is an exceptional time and it needs that kind of behavior, but don't keep it up too long.

    Bitter measure. Even with constancy, misfortune. Regret vanishes.

  8. The judgment of 18 Loss, Then Gain

    You've made mistakes that have brought you into decline; still, admitting it and making the corrections needed will lead you back to success. Take time to reflect on what caused the loss and, once you've acted, give success time to arrive.

    Great success. It is favorable to cross the great river. Three days before the first day, three days after the first day.

The trigrams

Below Lake Wind
Above Water Mountain

The way back

18 Loss, Then Gain → 60 Thrift
lines 1, 3, 5, and 6

Other transformations of Thrift

Make your own cast

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

Toss the coins