Hexagram 34 of 64
The Power of the Great
大壯 · Dà Zhuàng
Zhen (Thunder) · Qian (Heaven)
The Judgment
Tâ Kwang indicates that (under the conditions which it symbolises) it will be advantageous to be firm and correct.
The six lines
Line 1
The first NINE, undivided, shows its subject manifesting his strength in his toes. But advance will lead to evil,—most certainly.
Line 2
The second NINE, undivided, shows that with firm correctness there will be good fortune.
Line 3
The third NINE, undivided, shows, in the case of a small man, one using all his strength; and in the case of a superior man, one whose rule is not to do so. Even with firm correctness the position would be perilous. (The exercise of strength in it might be compared to the case of) a ram butting against a fence, and getting his horns entangled.
Line 4
The fourth NINE, undivided, shows (a case in which) firm correctness leads to good fortune, and occasion for repentance disappears. (We see) the fence opened without the horns being entangled. The strength is like that in the wheel-spokes of a large waggon.
Line 5
The fifth SIX, divided, shows one who loses his ram(-like strength) in the ease of his position. (But) there will be no occasion for repentance.
Line 6
The sixth SIX, divided, shows (one who may be compared to) the ram butting against the fence, and unable either to retreat, or to advance as he would fain do. There will not be advantage in any respect; but if he realise the difficulty (of his position), there will be good fortune.
Core themes
- great strength
- restraint in power
- right use of force
- momentum
Classical text: James Legge's translation (1882, public domain), shown in English. Translations are on their way.