46 · Pushing Upward (SHĒNG)
Pushing Upward is the growth of wood within earth: gradual, responsive, and built from small acts. The judgment allows a meeting with a capable guide and a purposeful journey. Six lines move from welcome and sincerity through an open opportunity and public recognition to steady steps, then warn against climbing blindly after the light is gone.
The judgment
Pushing Upward: great passage. It is useful to see a great person; do not worry. A journey south is auspicious.
A capable guide and a clear direction make growth possible. The ancient southward journey expresses a purpose that can now be acted on; it is not a promise that any ambitious push will succeed.
Original Chinese text
升：元亨，用見大人，勿恤，南征吉。
The six lines
- 初六 · Line 1 — An accepted ascent: great good fortune.
Original Chinese
允升，大吉。
- 九二 · Line 2 — With sincerity, a simple spring offering is beneficial; no blame.
Original Chinese
孚乃利用禴，无咎。
- 九三 · Line 3 — Ascend into an empty town.
Original Chinese
升虛邑。
- 六四 · Line 4 — The king makes an offering at Mount Qi: auspicious, without blame.
Original Chinese
王用亨于岐山，吉无咎。
- 六五 · Line 5 — Steadfastness is auspicious; ascend the steps.
Original Chinese
貞吉，升階。
- 上六 · Line 6 — Ascending in darkness; it is beneficial to be steadfast without ceasing.
Original Chinese
冥升，利于不息之貞。