28. PREPONDERANCE OF THE GREAT
Ta Kuo
The Judgement
PREPONDERANCE OF THE GREAT. The ridgepole sags to the breaking point. It furthers one to have somewhere to go. Success.
The Image
The lake rises above the trees: The image of PREPONDERANCE OF THE GREAT. Thus the superior man, when he stands alone, Is unconcerned, And if he has to renounce the world, He is undaunted.
The Lines
Six at the top: One must go through the water. It goes over one's head. Misfortune. No blame.
The Image says: The misfortune of 'going through the water' is not to be blamed.
Nine in the fifth place: A withered poplar puts forth flowers. An older woman gets a husband. No blame. No praise.
The Image says: 'A withered poplar puts forth flowers.' How can this last long? 'An older woman gets a husband.' This is also shameful.
Nine in the fourth place: The ridgepole is braced. Good fortune. If there are other motives, it is humiliating.
The Image says: The good fortune of 'the ridgepole being braced' is that it does not sag toward what is below.
Nine in the third place: The ridgepole sags to the breaking point. Misfortune.
The Image says: The misfortune of 'the ridgepole sagging to the breaking point' is that there can be no help.
Nine in the second place: A withered poplar puts forth sprouts. An older man gets a young wife. Everything furthers.
The Image says: 'An older man gets a young wife.' This is an extraordinary association.
Six at the beginning: To spread white rushes underneath. No blame.
The Image says: 'To spread white rushes underneath.' The weak is at the bottom.