Hexagram 46
Pushing Upward
升 (Shēng)
Earth over Wind
Hexagram 46 represents the natural process of gradual but steady advancement and organic growth. Like a tree pushing upward through the earth toward the light, this hexagram symbolizes patient perseverance and continuous development. The lower trigram Sun represents wood and gentle penetration, while the upper trigram Kun represents earth and receptivity. Together they create the image of wood growing within the earth, embodying the principle that true success emerges through consistent effort, proper timing, and the accumulation of small achievements into substantial accomplishments over time.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (卦辞)
Translation: "Pushing Upward has supreme success. One must see the great man. Fear not. Departure toward the south brings good fortune."
Hexagram 46 reveals the profound power of gradual, organic advancement that mirrors the natural world's most fundamental processes. This hexagram teaches that genuine success cannot be forced or rushed but emerges through patient cultivation and steady effort. The promise of supreme success indicates that conditions are exceptionally favorable for growth, yet this potential can only be realized through proper guidance and unwavering commitment. The counsel to seek out the great man emphasizes the critical importance of mentorship during periods of ascent. Just as a young tree benefits from the shelter of established growth, those on an upward path require wisdom from experienced guides who have traveled similar journeys and can illuminate the way forward with their accumulated knowledge and insight.
The instruction to have no fear speaks directly to the natural anxieties that accompany growth and change. When we push upward into new territory, uncertainty is inevitable, yet this hexagram assures us that our advancement is aligned with natural law and cosmic timing. The reference to the south, traditionally associated with light, warmth, and growth in Chinese cosmology, suggests that movement toward illumination and expansion brings favorable outcomes. This is not reckless ambition but purposeful development supported by both inner readiness and external conditions. The key lies in maintaining steady progress while remaining receptive to guidance and responsive to the natural rhythms of growth.
The Image (大象传)
君子以顺德，积小以高大。
Translation: "Within the earth, wood grows: the image of Pushing Upward. Thus the superior person of devoted character heaps up small things in order to achieve something high and great."
The image of wood growing within the earth provides a profound metaphor for understanding the nature of true advancement. Beneath the surface, invisible to casual observation, powerful forces are at work as roots extend, nutrients are absorbed, and cellular structures multiply. This hidden growth precedes and enables the visible emergence of the plant above ground. Similarly, genuine human development often occurs in quiet, unnoticed ways through daily practice, consistent study, and the gradual refinement of character. The superior person understands this principle and does not seek immediate recognition or dramatic breakthroughs but instead focuses on the patient accumulation of knowledge, virtue, and capability that will eventually manifest as substantial achievement.
The counsel to heap up small things reveals the mathematical truth of compound growth and incremental progress. Each modest effort, each small virtue cultivated, each lesson learned contributes to an ever-growing foundation. Like grains of sand forming a mountain or drops of water filling an ocean, these seemingly insignificant elements combine to create something magnificent. This approach requires both humility and faith: humility to value small steps rather than demanding instant greatness, and faith that consistent effort will yield extraordinary results over time. The devoted character mentioned in the text refers to this steadfast commitment to daily improvement regardless of immediate visible outcomes.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Six at the Beginning (初六)
Bottom line - Yin
"Pushing upward that meets with confidence brings great good fortune."
At the beginning of your upward journey, you find yourself in an exceptionally favorable position where your sincere efforts are recognized and supported by others. This line indicates that your intentions are trusted and your capabilities are acknowledged, creating ideal conditions for advancement. When starting new projects or pursuing career growth, you have the backing and confidence of those around you, which provides both practical support and emotional encouragement. This is an auspicious time to take initiative, as your actions will be met with receptivity rather than resistance. The great good fortune promised here comes from the alignment of your genuine effort with external recognition and support.
Nine in the Second Place (九二)
Second line - Yang
"If one is sincere, it furthers one to bring even a small offering. No blame."
This line emphasizes that authenticity and genuine intention matter far more than the scale or impressiveness of your contributions. Even modest offerings made with true sincerity will be valued and will advance your position effectively. In professional contexts, this means that honest, heartfelt work, even if limited in scope, carries more weight than elaborate but insincere gestures. Focus on the quality of your character and the authenticity of your efforts rather than trying to impress through grand displays. Your sincerity itself becomes a form of offering that others recognize and appreciate, creating trust and opening pathways for continued advancement without incurring blame or criticism.
Nine in the Third Place (九三)
Third line - Yang
"One pushes upward into an empty city."
This line describes a remarkable situation where obstacles that you anticipated suddenly disappear, and advancement becomes surprisingly easy. Like entering a city that you expected to be defended but finding it unoccupied, your path forward is clear and unobstructed. This may occur when competitors withdraw, when resistance unexpectedly dissolves, or when opportunities open up more readily than you imagined. While this is certainly favorable, the image also carries a subtle warning to remain humble and prepared. Easy advancement can sometimes lead to complacency or lack of preparation for future challenges. Take full advantage of this favorable situation to make significant progress, but continue building your capabilities and maintaining your vigilance.
Six in the Fourth Place (六四)
Fourth line - Yin
"The king offers him Mount Ch'i. Good fortune. No blame."
This line represents significant recognition and reward from those in positions of authority and influence. Mount Ch'i was historically where the Zhou dynasty established its foundation, making this reference symbolically rich with meaning about receiving substantial opportunities or honors. Your steady, patient advancement has been noticed by important people, and you now receive acknowledgment, resources, or opportunities that can significantly accelerate your progress. This recognition is deserved, earned through your consistent efforts rather than through manipulation or politics. Accept these gifts with grace and gratitude, understanding that they come as natural consequences of your devoted work. Use these new resources wisely to continue your upward journey and to help others along their paths.
Six in the Fifth Place (六五)
Fifth line - Yin
"Perseverance brings good fortune. One pushes upward by steps."
From the position of leadership and influence, this line emphasizes the supreme importance of steady, methodical progress rather than dramatic leaps or shortcuts. Success comes through climbing stairs one step at a time, maintaining consistent effort and unwavering commitment to your path. This approach may seem slower than you desire, but it ensures stability, sustainability, and genuine mastery. Each step builds upon the previous one, creating a solid foundation that can support continued growth. The good fortune promised here is not sudden or spectacular but reliable and enduring. By maintaining perseverance and accepting the natural pace of development, you ensure that your advancement is both certain and stable, avoiding the pitfalls of rushed progress or unstable foundations.
Six at the Top (上六)
Top line - Yin
"Pushing upward in darkness. It furthers one to be unremittingly persevering."
At the highest position, advancement becomes more challenging and less visible to others or even to yourself. You may feel as though you are working in darkness, unable to see clear progress or receive recognition for your continued efforts. This line counsels unwavering perseverance even when the path ahead is unclear and results are not immediately apparent. The darkness here is not ominous but rather represents the natural obscurity that comes at advanced stages of development where progress becomes more subtle and internal. Continue your dedicated efforts without requiring external validation or visible markers of success. This unremitting perseverance during difficult times will ultimately lead to breakthrough and genuine mastery that transcends ordinary achievement.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
In matters of the heart, hexagram 46 reveals that the most meaningful and lasting relationships develop gradually through shared experiences, mutual support, and patient nurturing rather than through dramatic passion or rushed commitment. This is an exceptionally favorable time for building strong foundations in new relationships, as the natural upward energy supports organic growth and deepening connection. For those in established partnerships, this hexagram encourages you to invest in the relationship's continued development through consistent care, open communication, and shared goals. Like a tree that grows stronger and more beautiful with each passing season, your relationship has the potential to deepen and flourish through steady attention and mutual cultivation of love, trust, and understanding.
For individuals seeking romantic connection, hexagram 46 suggests that meaningful relationships will emerge through natural circumstances rather than forced encounters or artificial situations. Engage in activities that genuinely interest you, pursue your personal growth, and allow connections to develop organically with people who share your values and aspirations. The upward energy favors relationships built on mutual respect, shared growth, and common purpose rather than mere attraction or convenience. Patience is essential; resist the temptation to rush into commitment before a solid foundation of friendship and understanding has been established. The right relationship will feel like natural progression rather than dramatic conquest.
Within existing relationships, focus on the small, daily acts of kindness, appreciation, and support that accumulate into deep bonds over time. This is not a period for dramatic gestures or major relationship decisions but rather for steady investment in your partnership's growth. Communicate openly about your shared future, support each other's individual development, and celebrate the small milestones of your journey together. The promise of this hexagram is that relationships nurtured with patience and genuine care will continue to grow in depth, intimacy, and satisfaction, creating lasting partnership that weathers challenges and deepens with time.
Career & Business (事业)
Professionally, hexagram 46 signals an exceptionally favorable period for career advancement through demonstrated competence, consistent performance, and strategic skill development. This is not a time for dramatic career changes or risky ventures but rather for steady progression within your current path or field. Focus on building expertise, establishing yourself as a reliable and capable professional, and cultivating relationships with mentors and colleagues who can support your upward trajectory. Promotions and recognition will come as natural consequences of your sustained excellence rather than through political maneuvering or self-promotion. Document your achievements, seek opportunities to expand your responsibilities gradually, and demonstrate your readiness for increased leadership through your daily actions and decisions.
For entrepreneurs and business owners, this hexagram represents sustainable growth built on solid foundations of customer satisfaction, quality products or services, and sound business practices. Resist the temptation to scale too rapidly or to pursue growth at the expense of quality and stability. Instead, focus on organic expansion that emerges from genuine demand, positive reputation, and proven systems. Invest in your team's development, refine your operations, and build customer loyalty through consistent excellence. Your business will flourish through word-of-mouth recommendations, repeat customers, and the natural expansion that comes from delivering real value. This approach may seem slower than aggressive growth strategies, but it creates sustainable success that can weather market fluctuations and competitive pressures.
In established careers, actively seek mentorship from those who have achieved what you aspire to accomplish. Their guidance can help you navigate challenges, avoid common pitfalls, and accelerate your development without compromising the steady progression that ensures lasting success. Continue developing your skills through formal education, professional development, and practical experience. Your advancement may be gradual, but it will be stable and enduring, building a reputation and capability that opens increasingly significant opportunities. Embrace the journey of professional growth as a long-term commitment rather than a sprint to immediate achievement, and you will find that each step upward creates a firmer foundation for continued ascent.
Health & Wellness (健康)
In health matters, hexagram 46 represents gradual improvement and the building of long-term vitality through consistent healthy practices rather than dramatic interventions or quick fixes. This is an ideal time to establish sustainable wellness routines that you can maintain over the long term. Whether you are recovering from illness, building fitness, or simply maintaining good health, focus on incremental improvements and patient cultivation of healthy habits. Your body responds exceptionally well to gentle, consistent encouragement during this period. Establish regular exercise routines that you enjoy and can sustain, improve your nutrition through gradual dietary changes rather than extreme restrictions, and develop stress-management practices that support your mental and emotional wellbeing. Each small healthy choice compounds over time into significant improvements in your overall vitality and resilience.
The upward energy of this hexagram particularly supports progressive health improvement for those recovering from illness or injury. Trust in your body's natural healing capacity and support it through proper rest, nutrition, and appropriate activity. Avoid pushing too hard or expecting immediate results; instead, celebrate small improvements and maintain faith in the gradual restoration of health. Work collaboratively with healthcare providers, following their guidance while also listening to your body's signals. For those building fitness or athletic capability, this is an excellent time to establish training programs that progressively increase in intensity, allowing your body to adapt and strengthen without injury or burnout. Consistency matters more than intensity during this period.
Mental and emotional wellness also benefit from the steady, upward energy of this hexagram. Establish daily practices such as meditation, journaling, or mindfulness that support psychological health and emotional balance. These practices may seem to produce subtle effects initially, but their cumulative impact on your mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall wellbeing will be substantial over time. Seek support from therapists, counselors, or wellness coaches if needed, recognizing that investing in your mental health is as important as caring for your physical body. The key to wellness success during this period is patience with yourself, consistency in your healthy practices, and trust in the power of small, daily choices to create lasting transformation.
Financial Matters (财运)
Financially, hexagram 46 indicates steady wealth accumulation through disciplined saving, wise investment, and consistent income growth rather than through speculation or get-rich-quick schemes. Your financial situation improves gradually through sound money management practices and patient wealth building. This is an excellent time to establish automated savings plans, contribute regularly to retirement accounts, and build emergency funds that provide security and peace of mind. Focus on increasing your earning capacity through skill development and career advancement rather than seeking windfall gains. The wealth you build during this period will be stable and enduring because it rests on solid foundations of genuine value creation, prudent management, and compound growth over time rather than on luck or market timing.
This hexagram strongly favors building financial security through diversified, long-term investments rather than concentrated bets or short-term trading. Consider index funds, real estate, or other assets that appreciate steadily over time through fundamental value rather than speculation. Your wealth grows like a tree, with strong roots in sound financial principles and branches that extend gradually into multiple areas of investment. Seek advice from experienced financial advisors who can help you develop a comprehensive wealth-building strategy aligned with your goals and risk tolerance. Trust in the power of compound interest and time to multiply your resources substantially. Small, regular investments made consistently over years will yield far greater returns than sporadic large investments or attempts to time the market.
The key to financial success during this period is patience, discipline, and resistance to the temptation of shortcuts or excessive risk. Avoid debt except for productive investments like education or real estate that genuinely increase your long-term wealth. Live within your means while consistently saving and investing a portion of your income. Track your spending, create budgets that support your goals, and make conscious choices about where your money goes. Each wise financial decision, each dollar saved and invested, contributes to your growing financial security and independence. The fortune promised by this hexagram comes not through dramatic windfalls but through the steady accumulation of resources that provides genuine freedom and security for your future.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
Hexagram 46 represents a powerful period for personal development through accumulated learning, experience, and self-cultivation. You have exceptional opportunities to grow in wisdom, character, and capability through patient effort and guidance from mentors or teachers who have traveled the path before you. This is an ideal time to pursue education, whether formal or informal, that expands your understanding and develops your abilities. Read widely, study subjects that fascinate you, and engage with ideas that challenge your current perspectives. Each book read, each lesson learned, each insight gained contributes to your expanding consciousness and deepening wisdom. Personal growth during this period is not about dramatic transformation but about steady evolution into a more capable, aware, and integrated version of yourself.
Embrace personal development as a gradual, lifelong process rather than a destination to be reached. Focus on cultivating virtues such as patience, perseverance, humility, and compassion through daily practice and conscious choice. Notice your habitual patterns of thought and behavior, and gently work to align them more closely with your values and aspirations. Seek feedback from trusted friends, mentors, or coaches who can help you see your blind spots and support your growth. Engage in practices such as meditation, contemplation, or journaling that deepen self-awareness and facilitate integration of your experiences into wisdom. Trust that you are becoming stronger, wiser, and more capable through each day's experiences and choices, even when progress seems imperceptible.
The challenge of this hexagram in personal growth is maintaining patience and commitment when progress seems slow or invisible. True transformation happens gradually, like a seed becoming a tree, through processes that are often hidden from view. Celebrate small victories and improvements rather than demanding dramatic breakthroughs. Recognize that character development, wisdom acquisition, and capability building all require time and sustained effort. The person you are becoming emerges through the accumulation of countless small choices, experiences, and lessons. Trust in this process, maintain your commitment to growth, and have faith that your patient self-cultivation will yield profound results that manifest as genuine wisdom, authentic capability, and integrated character that serves you throughout your life.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
The timing indicated by hexagram 46 strongly favors gradual advancement and patient development rather than dramatic moves or rushed decisions. This is not a period for forcing outcomes or demanding immediate results, but rather for trusting in steady, consistent effort and natural progression. The universe supports organic growth and rewards those who align their actions with natural rhythms rather than trying to impose artificial timelines. Current conditions are exceptionally favorable for planting seeds that will grow into substantial achievements over time. Begin projects, establish practices, and make commitments that you can sustain over the long term. Your efforts now will compound into significant results, but you must maintain patience and avoid the temptation to abandon your path when immediate results are not visible.
The primary advice of this hexagram is to trust in gradual improvement and to seek support from mentors, teachers, or guides who can illuminate your path and help you avoid common pitfalls. Do not attempt to advance alone or to figure everything out through trial and error. The wisdom and experience of those who have traveled similar paths can accelerate your development while ensuring that your progress rests on solid foundations. Build success through the accumulation of small victories rather than through pursuit of dramatic breakthroughs. Each day's modest effort, each small improvement, each lesson learned contributes to your overall advancement. Celebrate these incremental gains and maintain faith that they are leading you toward substantial achievement.
Embrace the upward journey with both confidence and humility. Confidence comes from recognizing that your natural tendency is toward growth and advancement, that you are supported by favorable conditions, and that consistent effort will yield results. Humility comes from understanding that genuine achievement requires time, that you need guidance from others, and that small steps are the foundation of great accomplishments. Like a plant growing toward light, your natural inclination is upward, but this growth must be supported by proper conditions, patient nurturing, and trust in natural processes. Maintain your commitment to steady advancement, remain receptive to guidance and support, and trust that your patient efforts are creating the foundation for lasting success and genuine achievement.