Hexagram 19 changing to 41: Approach to Decrease

Where it starts: 19 Approach

A favourable time approaching, and the reminder that it will pass: use it before the eighth month. Lake below, earth above: the earth leaning over the water, the higher approaching the lower with care. Approach describes a rising time, spring coming, the strong lines entering from below and growing. The judgement is very favourable and it contains a warning: in the eighth month there is misfortune. The season will turn. The reading asks you to act now, generously and attentively, as someone in authority approaches those they are responsible for, and to keep the coming turn in mind so that the gains are secured before it arrives.

Where it goes: 41 Decrease

Less at the base to strengthen the top: a season of reduction that is fortunate when done with sincerity. Lake below, mountain above: the lake at the foot of the mountain giving up its depth to the mountain's height. Decrease describes reduction: of resources, of expenditure, of passion, of what is below in order to serve what is above. The tradition's judgement is that decrease combined with sincerity brings supreme good fortune, and it offers the image of two small bowls used for a sacrifice when nothing grander is available. Simplicity, when it is honest, is enough. The image adds the inner work: the wise person controls anger and restrains instincts. The reading says the time asks for less, and that less done sincerely is a form of increase.

The lines that move

1. Line 6

   Generous approach. Good fortune. No blame.

   Someone who has withdrawn from affairs returning to help those still in them, out of generosity rather than obligation. The line honours the teacher who comes back. Both sides benefit. If you are past the active stage, come back to help those who are in it.

What is changing. The situation of Approach is moving toward Decrease. Act generously and attentively while the time is favourable, and secure the gains before it turns. As the change completes: Reduce what is excess, offer what you have with sincerity, and restrain anger and impulse.

love and relationships

Now: Things are growing and the time to invest in them is now. Approach the other person with care and generosity. The reading's warning is that a good season is not permanent: use it to build what will last past it. Then: Less: fewer demands, less passion spent on argument, simpler gestures. The reading favours giving something up for the sake of the relationship, done sincerely. Two small bowls, honestly offered, over an elaborate show.

career

Now: Rising influence and opportunity. Engage fully, teach and protect the people you are responsible for, and secure the gains. The eighth month is a real deadline: what is not established by then may be lost. Then: A leaner time. Cut what is excess, simplify, and serve the larger purpose with what remains. The reading warns against faking abundance and rewards honest economy. Restrain the temper; it is the costliest excess.

money

Now: A growing phase. Invest, build and act while conditions favour it, and set aside for the turn. Do not assume the rise continues indefinitely. Then: Reduce. Spend less, simplify, and treat the reduction as a discipline rather than a loss. Decrease done sincerely, the reading promises, is greatly fortunate. Do not pretend to more than you have.

decisions

Now: Act now on the opportunity; delay wastes a favourable season. Choose the option that uses the rising conditions while they last and does not depend on them lasting. Then: Choose the option that costs less and demands more restraint. If it involves giving something up, give it up sincerely and without resentment. The reading is against the lavish choice.