I Ching / Hexagrams / Increase

42. Increase

Increase / Benefit

GrowthGenerosityExpansionHarvestSacrifice from above

Trigrams

Upper: Wind
GentleWindWood
Lower: Thunder
ArousingThunderWood

The Judgment

Increase. It furthers one to undertake something. It furthers one to cross the great water.

The Image

Wind above thunder — the ruler decreases themselves to increase those below. When those above sacrifice for those below, all benefit and joy is boundless.

Interpretation

This is the complement to Decrease — here, those in power share their abundance with those below, and everyone prospers. Increase arrives, and the wise person seizes it for ambitious undertakings. This is the time to launch projects, cross dangerous waters, and attempt what seemed impossible. But remember: true increase comes from generosity. What you give away multiplies.

Advice

Act now while conditions favor growth. Launch ambitious projects. Share your abundance generously — what you give multiplies. This is a rare moment when expansion is supported. Don't waste it.