46. Sheng; Pushing Upward Above; K'un the Receptive earth Below; Sun the Gentle wind, wood |
21st Century |
Comparisons |
| A seed germinates pushing through soil seeking sunlight. The seedling can become a grand tree with care and protection. To nurture anything from birth requires commitment and care. There is no room for selfishness if the cultivar is to thrive. Two things distinguish the growth of a tree. It is not fast and it is relentless. Spiritual growth in a person is like a tree. It comes from relentless application of the highest precepts that person knows. Sometimes people seem harsh in their talk or appearances or manners. So long as they have integrity, if not polish, you are in good company. Always beware of success, especially easy success. As with money get too habituated your chances without it diminish. This makes one humble when change comes, and sensitive to the privileges success or money brings. It prevents complacency, the rot which eats everything. Success untempered by failures can create unrealistic expectations for the future. Simple living, simple food, simple relationships, these are all best for living. |
Line 1 |
Below are the comparative interpretations of a) Legge, b) Willhelm, c) Riefler, d) Crowley
a) advancing upwards with the welcome (of those above him). There will be great good fortune.
b) Pushing upward that meets with confidence Brings great good fortune.
c) The climber is welcome. Very auspicious.
d) Make thyself welcome with the great; aim high!
a) with that sincerity which will make even the (small) offerings of the vernal sacrifice acceptable. There will be no error.
b) If one is sincere, It furthers one to bring even a small offering. No blame.
c) The climber's smallest sacrifice is appreciated. No mistakes.
d) Small gifts are sweetened by sincere good will.
a) ascending upwards (as into) an empty city.
b) One pushes upward into an empty city.
c) The man climbs up into an empty city.
d) But empty cities - art thou bold to fill?
a) employed by the king to present his offerings on mount Kh Œ. There will be good fortune; there will be no mistake
b) The king offers him Mount Ch'i. Good fortune. No blame.
c) The climber is employed by the king to present his offerings on Mount Ch'i. Auspicious. No mistakes.
d) Thy king rewards thy true sincerity;
a) firmly correct, and therefore enjoying good fortune. He ascends the stairs (with all due ceremony).
b) Perseverance brings good fortune. One pushes upward by steps.
c) The man climbs the stairs with dignity. Auspicious if you keep to your course.
d) Ascend the stairs with proper dignity.
a) advancing upwards blindly. Advantage will be found in a ceaseless maintenance of firm correctness.
b) Pushing upward in darkness. It furthers one To be unremittingly persevering.
c) The man climbs blindly. Auspicious if you keep to your course without a single misstep.
d) Firm right maintain, though blind the silent sky!
Go to top