Hexagram 41 line 3: Decrease, yin in the third place

What changes when line 3 moves

Line 3 of Hexagram 41 is yin, a broken line. When it is cast as old yin (a 6) it flips, and the hexagram becomes Hexagram 26, Great Taming: Great power held and stored: strength restrained by something firm, gathering for a large task.

Read together, the reading moves from Decrease toward Great Taming. Less at the base to strengthen the top: a season of reduction that is fortunate when done with sincerity. Heaven below, mountain above: heaven's force held within a mountain. Great Taming describes creative power accumulated and disciplined by something solid, and the tradition treats it as very favourable: it is worth crossing the great water, and it is worth not eating at home, which means taking one's talents into public service. 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 26 →

Line 3 in context

Love & relationships

Reduce to the pair; three will not hold, one will not stay alone. 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

Reduce to the pair; three will not hold, one will not stay alone. 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

Reduce to the pair; three will not hold, one will not stay alone. 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

Reduce to the pair; three will not hold, one will not stay alone. 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.