Hexagram 28
Preponderance of the Great (Dà Guò)
Above: Lake · Below: Wind
The load is too heavy, and the beam has bent
Video
The judgment
The ridgepole is bending under the weight. Act quickly to find a way, and things can still get through.
The Image: The lake rises over the trees: great excess. So the noble person stands alone without fear, and withdraws from the world without regret.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Much yang and little yin; things are about to topple. Both root and tip are weak — act within your strength.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
The classics and law books are stored in the Orchid Pavilion; though chaos and collapse come, they alone escape disaster.
The palace books were kept in the Orchid Pavilion; when the whole land fell into chaos, not one was lost.
Takashima
- On trade: the lake covering the trees signals that low prices may suddenly soar.
- On career and recognition: it is time to step back and live quietly; this is not the time to seek a name.
Five common questions
Timing
Step back and keep a low profile
Health
Pent-up liver qi; work less, worry less
Money
Low prices may suddenly rise; beware the fall
Home
Check the beams; guard against leaks
Love
An age gap; be understanding
The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.
The six lines
- Six at the beginning: Spreading white rushes underneath. No blame.
- Nine in the second place: A withered willow puts out new shoots; an old man takes a young wife. Nothing that is not favorable.
- Nine in the third place: The ridgepole sags. Misfortune.
- Nine in the fourth place: The ridgepole is braced. Good fortune. If there are other motives, humiliation.
- Nine in the fifth place: A withered willow puts out flowers; an old woman takes a young husband. No blame, no praise.
- Six at the top: Wading too deep, the water goes over one's head. Misfortune, but no blame.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.