The 55th Hexagram of the I Ching: Fēng (丰)
Symbolism of the Fēng Hexagram: Thunder and Fire
The Fēng Hexagram is formed by an overlapping of two trigrams. The lower trigram is lì (离), which represents fire, and the upper trigram is zhèn (震), which represents thunder. The symbolism of thunder and fire is significant—thunderstorms bring about abundant harvests, while fire transforms harvested grains into bountiful meals. Therefore, this hexagram is named “Fēng” (丰), meaning abundance or prosperity.
Following the Guī Mèi hexagram, which focuses on the return and gathering of people, the Fēng hexagram represents the flourishing and prosperity that follow, as explained in the “Sequence of Hexagrams” (Xù Guà): “What is gained will be great, and thus it is symbolized by Fēng. Fēng means great or abundant.”
Interpretation from Duàn Yì Tiānjī
The Fēng hexagram, with zhèn above and lì below, represents the “Five Generations” hexagram in the Kǎn (坎) palace. Fēng indicates grandeur, and while it signals auspicious fortune, it also carries a warning: excess can lead to decline. While prosperity is apparent, there are hidden risks that must be handled with caution.
Interpretation by Song Dynasty Scholar Shào Yōng
In Shào Yōng’s view, Fēng represents a time of great success and prosperity, where wealth is acquired and ambitions are fulfilled, bringing joy. However, one must remain cautious not to become greedy, as indulgence can lead to misfortune.
Interpretation by Taiwanese Scholar Fù Pèi Róng
- Timing: The energy is strong and vibrant, but one should be careful and vigilant.
- Financial Luck: Profits will be substantial, but one must beware of legal issues.
- Family: The ideal direction for the home is southeast, and there may be harmonious relationships within the family.
- Health: Liver fire may be rising, so rest and care are advised.
Traditional Interpretation of the Fēng Hexagram
The Fēng hexagram (with lì below and zhèn above) is marked by thunder and lightning, indicating great energy and achievement. This hexagram represents the peak of success, like the sun at its zenith. However, the danger of decline is present, as extremes tend to lead to their opposite. The hexagram advises vigilance in maintaining the current success and warns that all things change.
The Great Image (Dà Xiàng):
The combination of thunder and lightning signals immense power, while the fire represents the radiant light of the sun illuminating the earth. This imagery speaks of a time of great flourishing.
Fortune and Career Interpretation
- Fortune: This is a period of immense strength and reward. It’s a time for reaping the fruits of hard work and enjoying success. However, the hexagram advises against excessive greed or overconfidence. It is important to recognize when things are at their peak and avoid complacency.
- Career: A time of great achievements and smooth progress. Things are going well, but one must be cautious of signs of decline. Vigilance and humility are key. Overexertion or arrogance could lead to setbacks, so it’s better to maintain a steady course and avoid chasing unattainable goals.
- Business: The market is currently favorable, and the timing is right for expansion. But one must keep a close eye on market trends and be prepared for sudden changes. If missteps are made, financial ruin could come swiftly. If failure occurs, lessons must be learned, and one should seek trustworthy partners to overcome challenges.
- Fame: Achievements have been earned through hard work, and fame has been attained. It’s important to sustain and build on this, rather than chasing hollow praise. Stability is the key.
- Love and Marriage: This hexagram suggests success in relationships and marriage. However, if either party becomes uncertain or lets circumstances alter their approach, it could lead to negative outcomes. It’s important to stay grounded and not let fleeting doubts disrupt harmony.
- Decision-making: The individual’s natural abilities and favorable circumstances bring success, but awareness of life’s impermanence is essential. Success should be enjoyed but always tempered with caution. Overconfidence and complacency are the real dangers.
Summary
The Fēng Hexagram symbolizes a time of abundance and success, like the peak of the sun’s power or a time of harvest. However, the hexagram carries a cautionary message: too much prosperity can lead to excess, which may cause downfall. Therefore, while things are progressing smoothly, it’s vital to be humble, recognize when to stop, and remain vigilant against the inevitable fluctuations of fortune.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Fēng Hexagram
Line Text:
Chū Jiǔ (初九): “Yù qí pèi zhǔ, suī xún wú jiù, wǎng yǒu shàng.”
“Encountering a matching master, although equally talented and knowledgeable, there are no issues. Future development will show an upward trend.”
Explanation:
This line suggests that when one encounters a superior who is well-matched in skills and capabilities, there may not be any immediate success, but there will be an upward trajectory in the future. The idea of “no issues” (wú jiù) means that despite equal abilities, external factors do not hinder progress.
Advice from this Line:
- After weathering difficulties (symbolized by the turbulent waves), calm will come, and the journey ahead will be smooth.
- The path to success is clear, and one can reach new heights, but progress must be steady and intentional.
- In all actions, there should be a balance between stillness and motion, with no hindrances or blockages in the way.
- When one’s goals are aligned with the greater purpose, success will come naturally.
- Collaboration will help achieve great success, but striving to win at all costs will only lead to disaster.
Changing Line (Chū Jiǔ to the 62nd Hexagram: Xiǎo Guò)
When this line changes, it transforms into Xiǎo Guò (小过), the 62nd hexagram, symbolized by Kùn (艮) below and Zhèn (震) above. It represents a small transgression or an “overstep” in a limited way. The image is of a thunderstorm striking a mountain—while it may shake things up, the danger is manageable. The hexagram warns against pushing beyond one’s limits, as small oversteps may lead to trouble.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Fēng Hexagram
Line Text:
Liù Èr (六二): “Fēng qí bù, rì zhōng jiàn dòu, wǎng dé yí jí, yǒu fú fā ruò, jí.”
“Enlarging the roof’s grass mats, the midday sun shines through the gaps, resembling the stars in the sky. If a ruler is so dim, wise men will be doubted. Only with humility and sincere effort can enlightenment be achieved, leading to auspicious results.”
Explanation:
This line suggests that when the ruler is not clear-sighted or is obscured (like the midday sun through the cracks), those who approach them may be viewed with suspicion. Only through humility, sincerity, and wise counsel can enlightenment be achieved, leading to good fortune.
Advice from this Line:
- In times of uncertainty or confusion, it is important to act with caution and humility.
- If there are doubts or misunderstandings, strive for honesty and demonstrate your commitment to clarity.
- Wise actions require patience, and success comes through persistent sincerity.
- When facing a ruler or leader who is unclear or indecisive, maintain faith in your path, as the truth will eventually become apparent.
Changing Line (Liù Èr to the 34th Hexagram: Dà Zhuàng)
The changing line transforms into Dà Zhuàng (大壮), the 34th hexagram, represented by Qián (乾) below and Zhèn (震) above. It symbolizes great strength and power, like thunder and the vast heavens. The hexagram emphasizes that a powerful, direct approach leads to success and vigorous action. It suggests that with strength, one should remain focused, direct, and confident.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Fēng Hexagram
Line Text:
Jiǔ Sān (九三): “Fēng qí pèi, rì zhōng jiàn mèi, zhé qí yòu gōng, wú jiù.”
“The coverings are expanded, now with curtains added, and the midday sun shines through with dim light. When wise men encounter such a ruler, it is like the right arm being broken—though they are unable to achieve much, they will ultimately not suffer harm.”
Explanation:
This line reflects the situation where external conditions or circumstances (symbolized by the coverings and dimming light) obscure clarity and prevent full potential from being realized. Despite the challenges, the wise will not be harmed, though their progress may be delayed or hindered.
Advice from this Line:
- When circumstances become unclear or uncertain, one must stay focused on the goal despite obstacles.
- Even if the path is not straightforward, patience and careful navigation will avoid harm.
- Strong and weak forces are at odds, but it is important to maintain inner clarity, even when the outer conditions are clouded.
- Just as the sun will eventually shine through the clouds, clarity will emerge, and things will come into focus at the right time.
Changing Line (Jiǔ Sān to the 51st Hexagram: Zhèn)
When this line changes, it transforms into Zhèn (震), the 51st hexagram, which symbolizes thunder. Thunder, when striking twice, amplifies its power and removes stagnation. The changing hexagram suggests that, like thunder clearing the air, sudden changes or disruptions can lead to breakthroughs. One should remain alert and prepared to adapt swiftly in the face of unexpected challenges.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Fēng Hexagram
Line Text:
Jiǔ Sì (九四): “Fēng qí bù, rì zhōng jiàn dòu; yù qí yí zhǔ, jí.”
“Enlarging the roof’s grass mats, the midday sun shines through the gaps; encountering a ruler from a different faction, it is auspicious.”
Explanation:
This line suggests that when a ruler is obscured by darkness or incompetence (represented by the dimming sunlight), an individual can still achieve good fortune if they encounter a capable person from outside the ruler’s circle. Although the ruler may be lacking, the right person, with the proper connections, will find success.
Advice from this Line:
- When facing difficult situations or unclear leadership, there are still opportunities for progress if one finds the right support.
- While challenges exist, aligning oneself with wise and capable individuals can lead to favorable outcomes.
- Even in dark or uncertain times, one can still achieve greatness by being open to new alliances or opportunities.
Changing Line (Jiǔ Sì to the 36th Hexagram: Míng Yí)
When this line changes, it transforms into Míng Yí (明夷), the 36th hexagram, represented by Li (离) below and Kūn (坤) above. This hexagram symbolizes the sun setting into the earth, where light is obscured. It warns of a period of concealment, where one must lie low and wait for the right time to act. It suggests a time of difficulty, where one must be cautious and follow the correct path, protecting wisdom even in adversity.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Fēng Hexagram
Line Text:
Liù Wǔ (六五): “Lái zhāng, yǒu qìng yù, jí.”
“Attracting virtuous and capable individuals to assist you will bring celebration and good reputation, auspicious.”
Explanation:
This line emphasizes the benefits of surrounding oneself with virtuous and talented individuals. Their support will bring both celebration and recognition, leading to good fortune and positive outcomes.
Advice from this Line:
- The arrival of good news and positive developments is a sign that things are progressing in a favorable direction.
- Success and recognition are achieved when one attracts the right people and builds strong alliances.
- Opportunities for growth and achievement come from connecting with those who share similar values and virtues.
- Prosperity follows when there is a harmonious relationship between leaders and their capable supporters.
Changing Line (Liù Wǔ to the 49th Hexagram: Zé Huǒ Gé)
The changing line leads to Zé Huǒ Gé (泽火革), the 49th hexagram, represented by Li (离) below and Duì (兑) above. This hexagram signifies a time for transformation and change. The elements of water (Zé) and fire (Huǒ) are in conflict, symbolizing the dynamic nature of change—what was once stable must now evolve. It is a reminder that transformation is a natural part of the universe, and embracing change leads to growth and renewal.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Fēng Hexagram
Line Text:
Shàng Liù (上六): “Chē qí wū, bù qí jiā, kuī qí hù, qù qí wú rén, sān suì bù dí, xiōng.”
“Building a house, covering the roof with grass mats, peering through the windows at an empty world, no one in sight. After three years without interaction, disaster will come.”
Explanation:
This line illustrates a scenario of isolation and retreat, where a person, represented by the empty house and grass-covered roof, withdraws from the world for an extended period. The warning here is about the dangers of prolonged seclusion and inaction, which can lead to misfortune. It advises that while retreat may sometimes be necessary, it must not be excessive or prolonged to the point where one loses connection with the outside world.
Advice from this Line:
- Avoid excessive isolation or retreat from the world. Remaining detached for too long can lead to negative consequences.
- While periods of rest and retreat are important, they should be balanced with active participation in life and engagement with others.
- Prolonged inaction or seclusion will lead to missed opportunities and potential failure.
- Action and engagement are necessary for growth and success—do not let fear or caution prevent you from taking advantage of the opportunities around you.
Changing Line (Shàng Liù to the 30th Hexagram: Lí)
When this line changes, it leads to Lí (离), the 30th hexagram, represented by Li (离) below and Li (离) above. This hexagram symbolizes clarity and illumination, where inner wisdom and outer light are harmoniously aligned. The image is of fire, which shines and illuminates the darkness, signifying the power of enlightenment and understanding. This suggests that after a period of seclusion, one’s true wisdom and insight will shine brightly when it is time to step forward and act.