Hexagram 42 · 益

Wind moves above thunder, two forces strengthening movement through mutual response. Gentle penetration accompanies energetic beginnings. Yi means increase or benefit, distinct from the character for Nourishment in hexagram 27. Its image concerns growth that improves the condition of those receiving it.

1. Line 1 · 初九

   利用為大作，元吉，无咎。

   It is beneficial to undertake great work. Great good fortune, without blame.

   Nine in the first place is yang receiving support for substantial action. The Small Image cautions against treating a lower position as entitled to heavy affairs, like accepting a major assignment only with genuine backing and responsibility.

2. Line 2 · 六二

   或益之，十朋之龜弗克違，永貞吉。王用享于帝，吉。

   Someone increases one's resources. A tortoise worth ten pairs of shells cannot contradict it. Lasting constancy brings good fortune. The king makes an offering to the Highest Lord. Good fortune.

   Six in the second place is central yin corresponding with the fifth yang. The Small Image identifies help from outside, like receiving a useful scholarship while continuing the disciplined study that makes it worthwhile.

3. Line 3 · 六三

   益之用凶事，无咎。有孚中行，告公用圭。

   Increase is applied in matters of misfortune. No blame. With sincerity, walk in the center and report to the lord using the jade tablet.

   Six in the third place is yin whose difficult circumstances can prompt constructive reform. The Small Image stresses making benefit one's own, like reporting a project failure honestly and using it to improve shared procedures.

4. Line 4 · 六四

   中行，告公從。利用為依遷國。

   Walking in the center, one reports to the lord and is followed. It is beneficial to provide support in relocating the state.

   Six in the fourth place is fitting yin supporting a larger transition. The Small Image emphasizes the intention to benefit, like a trusted coordinator explaining a major office move and attending to its effects on staff.

5. Line 5 · 九五

   有孚惠心，勿問元吉。有孚惠我德。

   A sincere and generous heart. Do not ask: great good fortune. There is sincere appreciation of my virtue.

   Nine in the fifth place is central and correct yang corresponding with the second yin. The Small Image sees its purpose fulfilled through generosity, like a leader giving useful support without demanding gratitude in advance.

6. Line 6 · 上九

   莫益之，或擊之，立心勿恆，凶。

   No one increases this person; someone may strike instead. Setting the heart without constancy brings misfortune.

   Nine at the top is yang seeking benefit without a dependable intention. The Small Image points to outside opposition, like a collaborator repeatedly asking for help while never honoring reciprocal commitments.

Put increase where it can do real good. Learn readily, correct faults without delay, and keep generosity connected to lasting responsibility.

• Nuclear剝23
• Inverted損41
• Opposite恆32
• Previous損41
• Next夬43