The Creative (Qián)

Judgment

乾：元，亨，利，贞。

Plain Meaning：Heaven: sublime success through firm correctness—supreme initiative, growth, benefit and steadfastness.

Image (Great Commentary)

天行健，君子以自强不息。

Line Texts

• 初九潜龙勿用。

  A hidden dragon: bide your time, do not act yet.

• 九二见龙在田，利见大人。

  The dragon appears in the field; it profits to see a great person.

• 九三君子终日乾乾，夕惕若厉，无咎。

  Diligent all day, cautious at night—hardship but no blame.

• 九四或跃在渊，无咎。

  Wavering flight over the depths—no blame.

• 九五飞龙在天，利见大人。

  The dragon flies in the heavens; it profits to see a great person.

• 上九亢龙有悔。

  An arrogant dragon will have cause to repent.

• 用九见群龙无首，吉。

  A flight of dragons without heads—good fortune.

Symbolism

Pure yang: creation, leadership and ceaseless striving.

Life Lesson

Advance step by step with the times; guard against arrogance at the peak.

Modern Application

A rising phase for career; balance strength with flexibility in relationships; decide boldly but not rashly.

Words of Caution

Excess strength breaks; at the height, consider restraint.