Hexagram 1 · ䷀
Originally auspicious, it furthers.
Greatness, prosperity, and integrity. The primordial creative force brings fortune and favor to those who act with righteousness.
Nine at the top means: Arrogant dragon will have cause to repent. When all the lines are nine, it means: There appears a flight of dragons without heads. Good fortune.
The Tuan commentary explains that Qian represents the ultimate creative power of heaven. Its virtue is in perfect alignment with the cosmic order, bringing harmony to all under heaven.
The movement of heaven is powerful. The noble person strengthens themselves through ceaseless self-improvement.
Heaven's movement is powerful and unceasing. The noble person, inspired by this, cultivates relentless self-improvement, striving toward the highest virtue without rest.
Qian is pure yang, the origin of all things. It represents t……
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Hidden dragon, do not act.
The dragon remains hidden beneath the surface, gathering strength. This is not yet the time for action.
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"Hidden dragon, do not act." The yang energy remains below.
The hidden dragon represents yang energy still developing underground, its power too immature for action.
Dragon appearing in the field, it furthers one to see the great person.
The dragon emerges onto the fields, visible to all. It is favorable to seek guidance from those of great virtue.
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"Dragon appearing in the field." virtue spreads widely.
The dragon appearing in the field shows virtue spreading to all corners, bringing benefit to all.
The noble person engages in determined self-improvement all day; at nightfall, they remain cautious. Danger, but no error.
The noble person progresses ceaselessly throughout the day, maintaining vigilance even at night. Though difficulties arise, there is no blame.
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"Engaging in determined self-improvement all day." Repeatedly following the correct path.
Constant diligent effort throughout the day reflects repeated practice of the correct path.
Leaping dragon in the depths.
The dragon leaps between depths and heights, choosing the right moment. There is no disaster in advancement.
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"Leaping dragon in the depths." Advancing causes no disaster.
The dragon leaping in the depths can advance or retreat freely, finding the opportune moment.
Flying dragon in the heavens.
The dragon soars through the heavens, reaching its full potential. It is time to act with authority and wisdom.
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"Flying dragon in the heavens." The great person creates and transforms.
The dragon flying in heaven represents the great person creating and shaping the world through their actions.
Arrogant dragon has cause to repent.
The dragon has risen too high, becoming arrogant. This will lead to regret, as excess cannot be sustained.
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"Arrogant dragon has cause to repent." Fullness cannot endure.
The arrogant dragon that has risen too high represents excess that cannot be maintained over time.