Hexagram 41 line 1: Decrease, yang in the first place

What changes when line 1 moves

Line 1 of Hexagram 41 is yang, a solid line. When it is cast as old yang (a 9) it flips, and the hexagram becomes Hexagram 4, Youthful Folly: Inexperience seeking guidance: the learner must ask, and the teacher must not be asked twice for the same answer.

Read together, the reading moves from Decrease toward Youthful Folly. Less at the base to strengthen the top: a season of reduction that is fortunate when done with sincerity. A spring at the foot of a mountain: water that does not yet know where it is going. Youthful Folly is about not knowing, and about the proper relationship between the one who does not know and the one who does. The primary hexagram describes the situation; the changing line is the point of movement in it; the resulting hexagram is where that movement leads. Both hexagrams belong to the reading, and the changing line is the hinge between them.

Hexagram 41 changing to 4 →

Line 1 in context

Love & relationships

Help quickly once your own task is done, but do not give past what you can afford. In love and relationships, Hexagram 41 reads: 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

Help quickly once your own task is done, but do not give past what you can afford. In career, Hexagram 41 reads: 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

Help quickly once your own task is done, but do not give past what you can afford. In money, Hexagram 41 reads: 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.

A decision

Help quickly once your own task is done, but do not give past what you can afford. In decisions, Hexagram 41 reads: 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.