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I Ching Hexagram #41 Mountain / Lake

Decrease

山泽损 (Sun)

Decrease combined with sincerity brings about supreme good fortune without blame. One may be persevering.

The Judgment & Decision

[Original Judgment]
有孚,元吉,无咎,可贞,利有攸往。曷之用,二簋可用享。
Vernacular Essence: 损减下泽益山,克己节制之象。损己益人、惩忿窒欲,诚心付出必得厚报。
Translation: Decrease combined with sincerity brings about supreme good fortune without blame. One may be persevering.
[Commentary on the Decision]

损,损下益上,其道上行。损而有孚,元吉无咎可贞,利有攸往。

The Great Symbolism & Virtue

《象》曰:山下有泽,损;君子以惩忿窒欲。

The Symbolism: Decrease

The Six Lines & Dynamics

First Line
Line 1

初潜修德,厚积薄发。

《象》曰:行事之初,正固为本。

Insight: Early phase: cultivate virtue and build firm foundations.

Second Line
Line 2

得中居正,顺理成章。

《象》曰:居中守正,吉无咎也。

Insight: Progressing in balance: centered action brings auspicious support.

Third Line
Line 3

多凶多惧,终日惕厉。

《象》曰:处于转折,慎终如始。

Insight: Critical juncture: remain vigilant and cautious amidst uncertainty.

Fourth Line
Line 4

审时度势,顺应高明。

《象》曰:顺应高明,获其志也。

Insight: High responsibility: adapt wisely and maintain integrity without arrogance.

Fifth Line
Line 5

居尊当位,光被四表。

《象》曰:大君之位,德施普也。

Insight: Peak position of authority: lead with virtue and broad benevolence.

Top Line
Line 6

高亢知戒,顺应转机。

《象》曰:物极当变,持盈保泰。

Insight: Culmination: beware of extremes and prepare gracefully for renewal.