Decrease
Decrease below to increase above; less can be more.
The Judgment
“Supreme good fortune without blame. Even a small offering may be used to sacrifice.”
The Lines
Line texts are an original modern translation of the classical Zhou Yi (public domain).
Meaning
The lake at the foot of the mountain is diminished to enrich what is above. Deliberate decrease—of excess, of self—can lead to greater good.
Guidance
Simplify and give up the nonessential willingly; sincere reduction now yields gain later.
When This Hexagram Appears
Cutting back, economizing, or curbing excess for the sake of a larger purpose.
FAQ about Hexagram 41
What does Hexagram 41, Decrease, mean?
Decrease (山泽损, hexagram 41 of the I Ching). The lake at the foot of the mountain is diminished to enrich what is above. Deliberate decrease—of excess, of self—can lead to greater good.
What is the Judgment of the Decrease hexagram?
The Judgment reads: “Supreme good fortune without blame. Even a small offering may be used to sacrifice.” Decrease below to increase above; less can be more.
What guidance does Hexagram 41 offer?
Simplify and give up the nonessential willingly; sincere reduction now yields gain later.
When does the Decrease hexagram apply?
Cutting back, economizing, or curbing excess for the sake of a larger purpose.