✦ HEXAGRAM 41
Sǔn —
Decrease.
Mountain above, Lake below.
CHANGES INTO 42-yi →
JUDGMENT
Decrease combined with sincerity brings about supreme good fortune without blame.
THE IMAGE
At the foot of the mountain, the lake: the image of Decrease. Thus the superior man controls his anger and restrains his instincts.
INTERPRETATION
The lake below gives its moisture upward to nourish the mountain — decrease below to increase above. Sometimes you must give something up to gain something greater.
Simplify. Reduce excess. What can you release that would lighten your load? Decrease is not loss when it serves growth. Sacrifice made with sincerity brings unexpected blessings.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What does Hexagram 41 mean?
- It counsels voluntary simplification and sacrifice. Giving up something now — with sincerity — creates space for something greater.
- Is decrease always negative?
- Not at all. Mindful reduction — of excess, clutter, or overcommitment — often leads to greater clarity and eventual increase.