大過

PREPONDERANCE OF THE GREAT

There are great pressures at work.
By meeting them with modesty and patience,
you avoid misfortune and meet with success.

The image of this hexagram is that of a beam under a great load: it sags in the middle and is in danger of giving way. You are in a similar situation now. The pressures of the moment are enormous, and there is a temptation to wriggle away and flee, or to resort to the plotting, conniving, and aggressive actions of the ego. It is by resisting this temptation and holding firmly to proper principles that you survive and succeed.

This is in fact a moment for which you have been preparing yourself for some time. A powerful energy has been accumulated—imagine a flood pressing against a dam—and it is up to you to direct its flow. If you succumb to fear, desire, or anger and resort to incorrect behaviors, the dam bursts and the pent-up energy causes destruction and misfortune. If, on the other hand, you cling to what is correct—modesty, balance, patience, independence, and gentleness—then you will obtain the aid of the Higher Power and the accumulated energy will be directed toward creating a profound success.

What is called for now is quiet integrity. With others, no matter how they may assault you, remain modest and patient. In your actions, seek to penetrate gently and steadily rather than forcibly and explosively. Meet the difficulties of the day cheerfully and resolutely. By taking great care now, by remaining correct in every moment, by embodying the principles of the Sage, you make possible the arrival of good fortune.

FIRST LINE

Great care is required when one undertakes great projects. Lay your foundation with caution and proceed step by step.

SECOND LINE

It is a time of renewal. Growth is possible if you remain modest and alert. Respect and honor those who are below you.

THIRD LINE

It is a dangerous time and great care is required. Pushing ahead willfully leads to misfortune.

FOURTH LINE

You gain the allegiance of others by holding to what is correct. Falling into self-importance leads to humiliation.

FIFTH LINE

The foundation is incorrect. To neglect this is to assure one’s own misfortune. A return to humility and neutrality reveals larger truths.

SIXTH LINE

To pursue a goal without heeding what is correct brings misfortune. Sacrificing a personal aim in the interest of what is right honors the Sage. The most important and beneficial thing is always the furtherance of good, no matter the cost to oneself.