Hexagram 41

Decrease (Sǔn)

Above: Mountain · Below: Lake

Letting go is how you gain

Decrease (Sǔn)

Hexagram 41 · Decrease (Sǔn)

The judgment

Decreasing with sincerity brings great good fortune. An offering need not be lavish — two simple bowls of food are enough.

The Image: A lake at the foot of the mountain: decrease. So the noble person restrains anger and curbs desire.

Take from below to add above; reduce what is full, add to what is empty. Hard first, easier later — spend within your means.

The road is thick with thorny brambles; every step pricks my feet …

The path is full of thorny bushes, and every step stings your feet.

On fortune: your luck is off-course for now; it is best to check your own anger.
On trade: be good-natured, not hot-tempered. Weigh your profits carefully; don't lend recklessly.

Luck off course; check your temper

Reduce the illness; practice moderation

Be good-natured; weigh profit; don't lend loosely

High behind, deep in front; level the site

Give of yourself; a well-ordered marriage

The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.

The six lines

Nine at the beginning: When your own work is done, go quickly. No blame. Consider how much to take.
Nine in the second place: Steadfastness is favorable; setting out brings misfortune. Without decreasing yourself, you can increase others.
Six in the third place: When three travel together, one is lost. When one travels alone, he finds a friend.
Six in the fourth place: Reducing one's illness — make it quick, and there is joy. No blame.
Six in the fifth place: Someone adds to it — a tortoise worth ten strings of shells — and it cannot be refused. Supreme good fortune.
Nine at the top: Without decreasing, one increases. No blame. Steadfastness brings good fortune; it is favorable to go somewhere. One gains helpers and is not bound to a single household.

Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.