I Ching · Hexagram 42 of 64
42. Yì 益 · Increase
By Destiny Kua · Updated
A time of gain. Use it to help others too.
- Upper trigram
- Wind 巽
- Lower trigram
- Thunder 震
What hexagram 42 means
Yì shows wind and thunder strengthening each other: increase. It is a time of gain, when resources flow from above to below. The traditional advice is to use the moment to undertake something worthwhile and to share the benefit, because increase used only for yourself soon stops.
Hexagram 42 in daily life
At work
Growth and expansion are possible. Invest in meaningful projects and share the rewards.
In relationships
Generosity deepens bonds. Give freely while you have plenty.
For yourself
Learn from good examples and correct your faults quickly. Improvement comes easily now.
The six changing lines
If your cast included changing lines (a 6 or a 9), read the matching lines below. Line 1 is the bottom line.
| Line | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Line 1 | Now is the time for great works. Supreme good fortune, no blame. |
| Line 2 | Unexpected gifts arrive and cannot be refused. Stay steady and true. |
| Line 3 | Benefiting even from misfortune. Walk the middle path sincerely and report honestly. |
| Line 4 | Walking the middle path and advising the leader, you can guide even a major move. |
| Line 5 | A kind heart needs no questioning. Your kindness is recognised: great good fortune. |
| Line 6 | Helping no one, and someone strikes back. A heart that is not steady brings misfortune. |
The two trigrams
The lower trigram, Thunder 震 (Zhèn), stands for your inner state and the root of the situation. The upper trigram, Wind 巽 (Xùn), stands for the outer circumstances. In element terms this is Wood over Wood. Thunder is the trigram of Kua 3 and Wind is the trigram of Kua 4.
Related hexagrams
- Opposite (every line changed): 32. Héng 恆 · Duration
- Inverted (read upside down): 41. Sǔn 損 · Decrease
- Trigrams swapped: 32. Héng 恆 · Duration
Questions to reflect on
- How can I use this moment of increase well?
- Whom could I help with what I have gained?
- What worthwhile work should I begin now?
Our line summaries are written in plain English in our own words, based on the traditional meanings. For reflection and entertainment, not prediction or professional advice.