The 46th Hexagram of the I Ching: Shēng (升 Hexagram)
The Symbolism of the Shēng Hexagram: The Earth and Wind Rising
The Shēng (升) hexagram is formed by the combination of two different trigrams. The lower trigram is Xùn (巽), representing wind, and the upper trigram is Kūn (坤), representing the Earth. Wind, when confined to the Earth below, cannot exert its full power. Only when it rises from the Earth can it unleash its true force and bring change. This reflects the principle of upward movement, growth, and progress.
Interpretation from Duàn Yì Tiānjī (断易天机)
The Shēng hexagram, with Kūn (坤) above and Xùn (巽) below, is the fourth generation hexagram in the Zhèn (震) family. The core idea of this hexagram is ascending and progressing—moving from the darkness into the light, and achieving success by gradually accumulating small efforts into larger achievements. This is a symbol of success through steady growth.
Interpretation by Shao Yong, Northern Song Dynasty Scholar
The concept of the Shēng hexagram is rising and advancing, following one’s ambitions freely, emerging from the darkness into the light, and steadily progressing. Those who draw this hexagram will experience an upward rise in their fortune, with everything developing positively. Success in efforts and wealth can be expected.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong, Taiwanese Scholar
- Fortune: Spring has arrived, the Earth is rejuvenating, and your fortunes are rising.
- Wealth: Saving and accumulating wealth will lead to financial success, possibly even wealth.
- Home: Renovate your house; improve your domestic situation, as well as your family structure.
- Health: Liver fire may be on the rise, so early care and adjustments are recommended.
Traditional Interpretation of the Shēng Hexagram
This hexagram is made up of Xùn (巽), representing wood, below, and Kūn (坤), representing Earth, above. The Earth nurtures trees, which grow gradually taller and stronger, symbolizing the rise of a career or a person’s future prospects. Shēng (升) directly symbolizes growth and advancement, both in personal endeavors and societal standing.
Dà xiàng (大象) (The Great Image): Trees grow steadily from the ground, representing the continuous upward movement and progress.
- Fortune: This is a symbol of both fame and wealth, with prospects opening up. It is a time for development, particularly in a southern direction.
- Career: Success is on the horizon. Continuous growth is indicated, and progress will be steady and reliable. The future is promising, but one must be cautious not to advance too recklessly due to early success. Patience, careful development, and following the example of virtuous predecessors are key.
- Business: Adhere to business ethics. Start small and expand gradually. Success is built through hard work, sincerity, and measured progress. Do not rush or take risks that could lead to mistakes.
- Seeking Fame: Work hard and improve oneself. With intelligence and effort, success is assured, especially with help from others. However, it is important to maintain balance and avoid excess.
- Marriage and Relationships: Mutual sincerity and gradual development of feelings will lead to success and harmony in relationships.
- Decision-making: You will experience ease and success. You are intelligent, flexible, and have a solid foundation for success. Always be humble and seek advice from elders. Progress will be steady and calculated, similar to how a tree grows and matures into a strong pillar. However, remember to stay cautious, remain sincere and upright, and take bold steps forward when the time is right.
Summary of the Shēng Hexagram’s Wisdom:
The Shēng hexagram advises steady growth, both in personal and professional spheres. It symbolizes rising fortune, the gradual accumulation of effort, and the importance of careful, sustained progress. By following the example of others, adhering to moral principles, and working hard, success will naturally unfold. However, one must always be cautious, humble, and grounded in their actions to ensure that this upward momentum is not derailed by hasty or reckless decisions.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Shēng Hexagram
Yáo cí (爻辞): Chū liù (初六): Yǔn shēng, dà jí.
Translation: “It is appropriate to rise; great good fortune.”
The meaning of this line is that it is a favorable time for progress, leading to great prosperity and good luck.
Interpretation:
When this line appears, remember:
- If you seek to understand your future path, it is a time for great success and positive development.
- A beautiful person waits for the autumn’s arrival, with joyful sounds echoing throughout the six directions (the universe).
- The bright moon serves as a fishing rod, and the clear wind acts as the line.
- Cast your net in the river’s waves, where the splendid fish are easily seen.
Transformation of the First Line:
The first line of Shēng changes into The 11th Hexagram: Tiān Dì Tài (天地泰). This hexagram is formed by the combination of two opposite trigrams: Qián (乾), representing heaven (yang), and Kūn (坤), representing earth (yin). The interplay of yin and yang leads to harmony, and everything is in balance. However, if this balance is disrupted, it will bring misfortune. The key lesson here is that things move in cycles, with extremes giving way to one another. Hence, the changing times should be embraced when they arrive.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Shēng Hexagram
Yáo cí (爻辞): Jiǔ èr (九二): Fú nǎi lì yòng huì, wú jiù.
Translation: “With sincerity, the use of the cypress for sacrifice brings no misfortune.”
This line suggests that with deep sincerity in your heart, you can achieve success in rituals and prayers for blessings, and disasters can be averted.
Interpretation:
When this line appears, remember:
- The east wind blows through the treetops, and the warblers in the quiet valley soar upwards from the forest.
- After the clearing sky, the clouds are swept away, and the autumn river reflects the moon’s full glow.
- Approach matters with sincerity and reverence.
- Not only will misfortunes be avoided, but happiness will also follow.
Transformation of the Second Line:
The second line of Shēng changes into The 15th Hexagram: Dì Shān Qiān (地山谦). This hexagram is formed by Gèn (艮), representing the mountain, below, and Kūn (坤), representing the earth, above. The image of a mountain rising from the earth symbolizes humility. When you are humble, despite having high achievements or a prestigious position, you remain modest and avoid arrogance. This is the essence of humility.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Shēng Hexagram
Yáo cí (爻辞): Jiǔ sān (九三): Shēng xū yì.
Translation: “Rise to an empty city.”
This line suggests an ascent to a deserted, barren place—like entering a desolate, uninhabited area. It reflects a time of progress but with potential emptiness or lack of fulfillment.
Interpretation:
When this line appears, remember:
- A boat leaves the old river path as the moon departs from the clouds; people leave the secure place and inquire about distant journeys.
- You seek your destination, but there is no need to worry about many possible options.
- Everything aligns naturally, and all endeavors will succeed.
- The path forward is unimpeded, so proceed confidently.
- There may be difficulties in the North, but your efforts to the South will be more fruitful.
- The clouded person will need to exert effort, and those riding horses will begin to rise and achieve success.
Transformation of the Third Line:
The third line of Shēng (升) changes into The 7th Hexagram: Dì Shuǐ Shī (地水师). This hexagram is formed by the combination of Kǎn (坎), representing water and danger, below, and Kūn (坤), representing earth and receptivity, above. The word “Shī” (师) refers to an army or military forces.The image suggests the idea of using military forces in times of need, symbolized as “military being employed in farming.”
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Shēng Hexagram
Yáo cí (爻辞): Liù sì (六四): Wáng yòng hēng yú Qí shān, jí, wú jiù.
Translation: “The king performs a successful sacrifice at Qí Mountain, with good fortune and no misfortune.”
The meaning of this line is that a king’s ritual offering at Qí Mountain brings auspicious results, with no harm or misfortune.
Interpretation:
When this line appears, remember:
- When establishing a nation or foundation, it is important to align with proper principles, leading to great success and prosperity.
- The troubles of the wealthy or powerful can be avoided through wise decisions.
- Future plans for establishing a home should begin with careful consideration, taking actions when the moment is right.
- Follow the natural flow, respecting your elders and fostering humility and virtue.
- Actions should be performed with care, avoiding excessive stinginess, and happiness will follow.
- Be straightforward in your approach, avoid going against the natural order.
- Embrace new ideas while improving upon old methods, and spread messages of hope.
Transformation of the Fourth Line:
The fourth line of Shēng changes into The 32nd Hexagram: Léi Fēng Héng (雷风恒). This hexagram is formed by the combination of Zhèn (震), representing thunder (masculine), and Xùn (巽), representing wind (feminine). The image of thunder on top and wind below symbolizes constancy. The yin and yang are mutually supportive and balanced, and the energy of both forces help to sustain steady growth and progress. The message here is that consistency and steady effort lead to lasting success.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Shēng Hexagram
Yáo cí (爻辞): Liù wǔ (六五): Zhēn jí, shēng jiē.
Translation: “With firm correctness comes good fortune, and the rise to a higher position.”
The meaning of this line is that when your actions are based on integrity and righteousness, good fortune will follow, and you will steadily rise to a higher status.
Interpretation:
When this line appears, remember:
- By showing respect and humility, you can steadily rise in status, and those around you will acknowledge and respect your actions.
- Good fortune follows you as you step forward, and the future is filled with optimism and success.
- A worthy person enters your life, bringing joy and satisfaction.
- Once you achieve your goals, you will soar to even greater heights, like flying high above the clouds.
Transformation of the Fifth Line:
The fifth line of Shēng changes into The 48th Hexagram: Shuǐ Fēng Jǐng (水风井). This hexagram is formed by Kǎn (坎), representing water, and Xùn (巽), representing wind. Just as trees need water to grow and thrive, people rely on wells for water, which must be dug by humans. This hexagram symbolizes mutual support and nourishment. The well (water) sustains the people, and the people (through their efforts) maintain the well. It emphasizes the importance of continuous effort and self-improvement, nourishing both oneself and the community.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Shēng Hexagram
Yáo cí (爻辞): Shàng liù (上六): Míng shēng, lì yú bù xī zhī zhēn.
Translation: “Rise in the dark, and it is beneficial to remain firm in your righteousness.”
The meaning of this line is that even when in a state of obscurity or difficulty, continuing to rise and maintaining a strong, unwavering moral character will ultimately lead to a positive outcome.
Interpretation:
When this line appears, remember:
- Even in dark and challenging times, persistence and steadfastness will lead to success, as long as you remain true to your values.
- A friend will come to offer a message, bringing light and hope, and the darkness will eventually dissipate, allowing clarity and success to emerge.
- There is no harm in maintaining a steady focus and keeping your thoughts clear, even when things seem uncertain or difficult.
Transformation of the Sixth Line:
The sixth line of Shēng changes into The 18th Hexagram: Shān Fēng Gǔ (山风蛊). This hexagram is formed by Xùn (巽), representing wind, below, and Gèn (艮), representing mountain, above. The term “Gǔ” originally refers to decay or rot, symbolizing a situation where things have become stagnant or corrupted. It suggests the need for renovation and change, for without reform, things will continue to deteriorate. This hexagram urges one to take decisive action to correct the status quo and revive what has become inert, restoring vitality and order.