Also known as Increase, Augmenting, Gain.
The character 益 shows water spilling over the brim of a bowl: more than enough. Hexagram 42 is about increase, especially when those above give to those below. It's a time to act boldly, improve yourself and pass the benefit on.
The figure
Wind over Thunder. Wind and thunder strengthen each other: the storm grows stronger as each feeds the other. A strong line has moved down from the top of the figure to the bottom, a picture of giving from above to below.
The judgment
It pays to set out, and this is the moment for the big crossing.
This is a favorable time. Go ahead, take on something big and use the momentum while it lasts.
The image
Wind and thunder, each one feeding the other. See something good and move toward it; find a fault and fix it.
The best increase is in yourself: copy what's good when you see it, and correct your faults as soon as you notice them.
The six lines
Counted from the bottom, the way the figure is built when you cast it.
- Line 1, at the bottom. It helps to do great things. This goes very well, and no one can fault it. Use the support you've been given.
- Line 2. Someone truly enriches you, and ten pairs of tortoise shells can't oppose it. Lasting steadiness goes well. The king presents you before heaven.
- Line 3. Gaining through hard times. Not a mistake, if you stay honest, keep to the center, and tell those above the plain truth.
- Line 4. If you keep to the middle and report to the ruler, they will follow your advice. It helps to be trusted with moving the capital, a big change for everyone.
- Line 5. If your kindness is real, there's no need to ask. This goes very well. People will see the good you've done.
- Line 6, at the top. No one gets anything from you, and someone may even hit out at you. Your mind keeps shifting. It goes badly. Greed at the top turns gain into conflict.
Reading it for a question
Hexagram 42 is a strong yes. Act now, aim high and share what you gain. Use the moment to grow yourself as well as your results.