Hexagram 55 Abundance

 

Moving to	Date
		Unchanging -
		Top Line
		Fifth Line - Ruling Line
		Fourth Line
		Third Line
		Second Line
		Bottom line

It is not given to every mortal to bring about a time of outstanding greatness and abundance. Only a born ruler of men is able to do it, because his will is directed to what is great. Such a time of abundance is usually brief. Therefore a sage might well feel sad in view of the decline that must follow. But such sadness does not befit him. Only a man who is inwardly free of sorrow and care can lead in a time of abundance. He must be like the sun at midday, illuminating and gladdening everything under heaven.

The Image

Thunder

Fire

Both thunder and lightning come:
The image of Abundance.
Thus the superior man decides lawsuits
And carries out punishments.

This hexagram has a certain connection with Shih Ho, Biting Through (21), in which thunder and lightning similarly appear together, but in the reverse order. In Biting Through, laws are laid down; here they are applied and enforced. Clarity (Li) within makes it possible to investigate the facts exactly, and shock (Chen) without ensures a strict and precise carrying out of punishments.

Friday February 16, 2007

What is the meaning of the inner journey I just took to Mardoll House

55 unchanging

Chên is movement; Li is flame, whose attribute is clarity. Clarity within, movement without-this produces greatness and abundance. The hexagram pictures a period of advanced civilization. However, the fact that development has reached a peak suggests that this extraordinary condition of abundance cannot be maintained permanently.

How interesting it says that I was able to experience abundant riches at a level I will probably never experience in the real world.  It can't be maintained indefinitely because even fabulous wealth can become mundane and accepted as a matter of course.  The attraction wears off and it becomes both necessary and expected.  I believe that part of what I can carry back is a feeling that there is a lot of spiritual help available for me right now.  Also that I need to get my energy focused on social engagements.