The Meaning of Hexagram #42

Like wind growing stronger and thunder growing louder, hexagram number 42 signifies a time of building up and amassing of energies. A time of prosperity, increased health and vitality is drawing near. Use this increased flow of good fortune to support others, foster your education or start a business. Expect a burst of creative power that will be sustained easily. Shoulder your responsibility wisely. Let forces combine for greater abundance and let your inner drive propel you forward.

NOTE: Want to know how I Ching hexagram #42, "Thunder below Wind", is interpreted for questions about dating, marriage and romantic issues? See iFate's popular Love I Ching interpretation for hexagram #42

Changing Lines in Hexagram #42

Changes in Line 1

"Increasing Great Deeds"

Set your aspirations high and step forward without selfishness. You will see the results. Seek out and contribute to a worthy cause.

Changes in Line 2

"Receiving Gracefully"

True increase comes by way of an attitude of receptivity. This requires the desire to "receive so that others may prosper." This sometimes means passing along a gift, perhaps one that you just received, on to someone else. Flow of giving and receiving is the natural law. Don't impede it.

Changes in Line 3

"Enrichment through Misfortune"

This line indicates that even if misfortune falls upon you, you will still be untouched by it. Realize you are free of error and blame, and unpleasant circumstances will not affect you. Support is guaranteed at this time

Changes in Line 4

"Funneling Prosperity"

At this time, you may find yourself as a middle person, allocating tasks and funds to the right locations. Accept this directing position dutifully. This may be a good time to relocate, so you are better able to handle your new found responsibilities

Changes in Line 5

"A Kind Heart is Needed"

This line indicates that you have the kindness and merit to act for the good of all. You will be rewarded fold when you act with purity and kindness, and so will your kingdom

Changes in Line 6

"Bracing for Attack"

Not everyone will like your actions at this time. Some people will question your motives and make assumptions. They will be looking through veils over their eyes. This is a time to be cautious and wise.

The 2 Trigrams Within Hexagram #42

Hexagram #42 is made of two 3-line trigrams layered on top of each other. The lower 3 lines of hexagram #42 form the trigram for Thunder, while the top 3 lines form the trigram for Wind.

NOTE: An easy way to think about the two trigrams is that the upper trigram points to external energies, and the bottom trigram points to internal energies.

Hexagram #42's Lower Trigram of Thunder

The enigmatic trigram representing thunder is an energetic mix of power and mystery. According to Chinese lore, thunder is often associated with the might and mystery of dragons. The trigram of thunder is also called the "The Arousing" and points to intent, motion and initiative. It is a building block of unbridled energy and forward progress. It may also refer to an 'eldest son' or the map direction north.

Hexagram #42's Upper Trigram of Wind

The mild mannered trigram of wind is associated with a light and easy energy. The trigram of wind is also known as a 'soft force': both subtle and lacking in strength, and yet persistent and unwavering. The wind trigram may also point to an 'eldest daughter' or the compass direction of southeast

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #42

A note on iFate's I Ching translation: This is not a direct translation of the original "Book of Changes" from 1000 BC. While multiple translations of the original text are available, they include many archaic references and can be difficult to understand for 21st century readers. iFate uses our own modern rewritings (two different editions) of the "Book of Changes" which makes interpreting I Ching readings far simpler. For iFate's additional contemporary re-writing of the original text, see our "Love I Ching" translation.