Hexagram 34
Strong, powerful, wary of arrogance
The wisdom of the Da Zhuang hexagram lies in the word "zheng" (righteousness). It tells us that power itself is neutral, and what determines its good or bad fortune is the heart that uses it. Only by using the power of thunder on the way of heaven can we achieve true greatness.
Trigram Structure
䷡, Zhen above, Qian below
Palace：乾
Key Themes
Strong, powerful, wary of arrogance
The wisdom of the Da Zhuang hexagram lies in the word "zheng" (righteousness). It tells us that power itself is neutral, and what determines its good or bad fortune is the heart that uses it. Only by using the power of thunder on the way of heaven can we achieve true greatness.
Da Zhuang: Li Zhen.
Spring thunder resounding through the clouds, the sun at noon, a magnificent waterfall.
Engine, motor, large vehicles, chariots
The wisdom of the Da Zhuang hexagram lies in the word "zheng" (righteousness). It tells us that power itself is neutral, and what determines its good or bad fortune is the heart that uses it. Only by using the power of thunder on the way of heaven can we achieve true greatness.
Stronger than the toes, it conquers evil and brings prosperity.
Guidance
Injured in the toes; too hasty; there will be damage.
Modern Insight
This is the budding stage of power. You are full of momentum, but the foundation is not yet stable. At this time, the most taboo is rushing to show off and acting recklessly. Acknowledge your strength, but more importantly, understand that the timing is not yet right; patiently accumulate—this is the best strategy.
Sadaki.
Guidance
Maintaining the right path brings fortune.
Modern Insight
You are in a balanced, central position. This line again emphasizes the core of the hexagram: remain calm, hold to principles. Do not be carried away by surging power. Your balance and steadiness are the anchor that ensures this power can bring good fortune.
A villain uses strength, a gentleman uses recklessness. Zhenli. If a ram touches the feudal lord, its horn will be broken.
Guidance
A villain uses strength; a gentleman does not; forcing forward will get stuck.
Modern Insight
This is an extremely wise line. It tells us that strength is not the only solution. Mindlessly using brute force will only trap you in a dilemma. A gentleman knows that sometimes restraint, flexibility, and even showing weakness are higher forms of power.
Zhenji, regret death. The feudal vassal will never be weak, it will be stronger than the web of public opinion.
Guidance
Maintaining the right path brings fortune; the barrier is destroyed, power is released.
Modern Insight
You have succeeded! You have broken through obstacles, but not by brute courage. Your power is rooted in a stable, well-founded system (large cart). You know how to rely on the team and on systems, using power where it matters. This is the correct way to use power.
Losing a sheep in Yi has no regrets.
Guidance
Easily losing a sheep; metaphor for losing big for small; no regret.
Modern Insight
You hold a high position, yet have gentle virtue. Facing conflict, you know when to yield appropriately, abandoning some unimportant interests (sheep). This "using softness to overcome strength" is the highest wisdom in times of strength. It helps you avoid unnecessary disputes, naturally bringing no regret.
If a sheep touches the feudal vassal, it cannot retreat, cannot succeed, and has no profit. Hard times bring good luck.
Guidance
Trapped in a dilemma; persisting can lead to success.
Modern Insight
This is the end of strength and also the most dangerous warning. You have used power to the extreme, trapping yourself in a dead end. At this time, any struggle is futile. The only way out is to stop, reflect deeply, and acknowledge your predicament. Being able to do this is the beginning of turning danger into fortune.
