14. Possession in Great Measure (大有 Dà Yǒu)

Trigrams

Above

☲ Lí (Fire)

Below

☰ Qián (Heaven)

Symbolic Meaning

大有 (Dà Yǒu) represents possession in great measure. This hexagram signifies abundance, wealth, and power. It emphasizes the responsible use of one's resources and abilities to benefit both oneself and others.

Judgment

Original Chinese:
"大有，元亨。"
(Dà yǒu, yuán hēng.)

"Possession in great measure. Supreme success."

This hexagram symbolizes the possession of great wealth or resources. It signifies success on a grand scale, where everything is aligned for prosperity and abundance. However, it also advises that this wealth should be used wisely and responsibly.

Image

Original Chinese:
"火在天上，大有。君子以遏恶扬善，顺天休命。"
(Huǒ zài tiān shàng, dà yǒu. Jūn zǐ yǐ è è yáng shàn, shùn tiān xiū mìng.)

"Fire in heaven above: The image of Possession in Great Measure. The superior person curbs evil and promotes good, thus obeying the will of heaven."

The image of fire in heaven represents the light and power that comes from abundance. The superior person uses this power wisely by restraining harmful actions and promoting good deeds. This alignment with the will of heaven brings lasting success.

Line 1

Original Chinese:
"无交害，匪咎，艰则无咎。"
(Wú jiāo hài, fěi jiù, jiān zé wú jiù.)

"No contact with harmful influences. No blame in this. If there are difficulties, they will not bring misfortune."

This line advises avoiding harmful influences or associations. By keeping clear of negative forces, one can avoid blame. Even if difficulties arise, they will pass without causing harm as long as one remains pure.

Line 2

Original Chinese:
"大车以载，有攸往，无咎。"
(Dà chē yǐ zài, yǒu yōu wǎng, wú jiù.)

"A large cart for carrying. One may advance without blame."

This line speaks of having the capacity to carry great responsibilities. With such resources at one’s disposal, advancement is possible without blame, as long as the person uses their power wisely and moves forward carefully.

Line 3

Original Chinese:
"公用亨于天子，小人弗克。"
(Gōng yòng hēng yú tiān zǐ, xiǎo rén fú kè.)

"A prince offers sacrifices to the Son of Heaven. The inferior person is unable to achieve this."

This line refers to a person in a high position who is capable of making offerings to the ruler (Son of Heaven). It highlights the idea that only those with the necessary resources and status can perform such acts. The inferior person lacks the means or ability to participate in such actions.

Line 4

Original Chinese:
"匪其彭，无咎。"
(Fěi qí péng, wú jiù.)

"He is not boastful. No blame."

This line advises against boasting or flaunting one's wealth or power. By remaining humble and not seeking to impress others, one avoids blame. Modesty ensures that the person retains their success without provoking envy or conflict.

Line 5

Original Chinese:
"厥孚交如威如，吉。"
(Jué fú jiāo rú wēi rú, jí.)

"He is trustworthy and commanding. Good fortune."

This line describes a person who commands respect through their integrity and strength of character. They are trusted by others and inspire confidence. Such qualities lead to good fortune and success.

Line 6

Original Chinese:
"自天佑之，吉无不利。"
(Zì tiān yòu zhī, jí wú bù lì.)

"Heaven blesses him. Good fortune. Everything is favorable."

This line speaks of divine favor. When one is aligned with the will of heaven and acts with integrity, they are blessed with success in all endeavors. Everything turns out favorably, and good fortune is ensured.