Critical Mass

大過 (dà guò)
Hexagram 28 • Binary: 011110

Trigrams

Upper: Lake

Attribute: Joyous
Element: Metal
Direction: West
Family: Youngest Daughter

Lower: Wind

Attribute: Penetrating
Element: Wood
Direction: Southeast
Family: Eldest Daughter

Palace

Zhen Palace

Element: Wood
Ruling Trigram: thunder

Judgment

Critical Mass depicts a weak beam. Under such conditions it is advantageous to move in any direction whatever. Success is indicated.

Image

The image of trees beneath a marsh forms Critical Mass. The superior man, in accordance with this, fearlessly stands alone, and stays retired from the world without regret.

Lines

1

Position 1: Careful Foundation yin

To spread white rushes underneath. No blame.

2

Position 2: Unexpected Renewal yang

A dry poplar sprouts at the root. An older man takes a young wife. Everything furthers.

3

Position 3: Weak Support yang

The ridgepole sags to the breaking point. Misfortune.

4

Position 4: Upward Support yang

The ridgepole is braced. Good fortune. If there are ulterior motives, it is humiliating.

5

Position 5: Temporary Flourish yang

A withered poplar puts forth flowers. An older woman takes a husband. No blame. No praise.

6

Position 6: Reckless Advance yin

One must go through the water. It goes over one's head. Misfortune. No blame.