Hexagram 41: Decrease (損 Sǔn) – I Ching Meaning

Hexagram 41 of the 64 I Ching hexagrams is called Decrease (損, Sǔn). It is made of the lower trigram Dui (Lake) and the upper trigram Gen (Mountain). Keywords: simplicity, sacrifice, sincerity. This is for reflection and entertainment, not a prediction.

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Judgment

Giving up some things can make room for what matters. A simple, sincere offering is enough.

The Image

A lake at the foot of a mountain. Let go of anger and impulse, and cut back on desires.

Decrease hexagram meaning

General meaning

A time to simplify and let go of extras. Less can mean more.

Love

Small sincere gestures matter more than lavish ones. Give from the heart.

Career

Trim what is unnecessary and focus on what counts. Be generous with your effort.

Advice

Choose less and mean it. Give sincerely and keep things simple.

The six changing lines

  1. Line 1. Offer help promptly, yet check what it costs you. Give in a measured way.
  2. Line 2. Stay steady and do not drain yourself to please others. You can help without losing yourself.
  3. Line 3. Three people travelling find friction, while one finds a friend. Work out your place in the group.
  4. Line 4. Reduce your own faults, and good news follows quickly. Self-improvement is joyful.
  5. Line 5. An unexpected gift arrives from beyond. Accept good fortune graciously.
  6. Line 6. Gain without taking from others is true benefit. Share your success widely.

In short

Giving up a little now can bring something more valuable later.

← Previous: 40. DeliveranceNext hexagram: 42. Increase

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