#42
Increase (益)
Yì
Increase through giving and growth.
Source: Our commentary · editorial-en-v1
Lower trigram: Thunder (震 Zhèn) — arousing movement
Upper trigram: Wind (巽 Xùn) — gentle penetration
Judgment — our commentary
Increase spreads when those with surplus give well. Grow by lifting others, not only yourself.
The six lines
Line 1
Increase: begin quietly. Increase through giving and growth shows first as a small, careful step rather than a public claim.
Reflection: What smallest faithful step is available now?
Line 2
Increase: gather allies or resources. Keep increase through giving and growth practical—test one move before scaling.
Reflection: What support makes the next step safer?
Line 3
Increase: work intensifies. Stay honest about fatigue so increase through giving and growth does not tip into rash force.
Reflection: Where should you pause before pushing harder?
Line 4
Increase: a fork appears. Choose the option that keeps integrity even if it is slower.
Reflection: Which choice can you fully own?
Line 5
Increase: your stance influences others. Model increase through giving and growth without pressuring people to mirror you.
Reflection: How can you lead without dominating?
Line 6
Increase: close the cycle. Soften excess, keep the lesson, and do not cling to the peak.
Reflection: What deserves a clean ending rather than a cling?