41. DECREASE
Sun
The Judgement
DECREASE combined with sincerity Brings supreme good fortune Without blame. One may be persevering in this. It furthers one to undertake something. How is this to be carried out? One may use two small bowls for the sacrifice.
The Image
At the foot of the mountain, the lake: The image of DECREASE. Thus the superior man controls his anger And restrains his instincts.
The Lines
Nine at the top: If one is increased without decreasing others, there is no blame. Perseverance brings good fortune. It furthers one to undertake something. One obtains servants but no longer has a home.
The Image says: 'If one is increased without decreasing others,' one's will is fulfilled on a grand scale.
Six in the fifth place: Someone increases him. Ten pairs of tortoises cannot oppose it. Supreme good fortune.
The Image says: The supreme good fortune of the six in the fifth place comes from the blessing from above.
Six in the fourth place: If a man decreases his faults, it makes the other hasten to rejoice. No blame.
The Image says: 'If a man decreases his faults,' this is also a cause for joy.
Six in the third place: When three people journey together, their number decreases by one. When one man journeys alone, he finds a companion.
The Image says: 'When one man journeys alone,' the three create doubt.
Nine in the second place: Perseverance furthers. To undertake something brings misfortune. Without decreasing oneself, one is able to bring increase to others.
The Image says: 'Perseverance furthers in the nine in the second place,' because the will is in the middle.
Nine at the beginning: Going quickly when one's tasks are finished is without blame. But one must reflect on how much one may decrease others.
The Image says: 'Going quickly when one's tasks are finished.' The will of the one above is in harmony.