I Ching hexagram
41. Sacrifice
損Sǔn
Mountain over Lake
Also called Decrease, The Symbol of Lessening, Loss, Diminishing, Reduction, Diminution of Excesses, Decline, Bringing into Balance, Dynamic Balance, Sacrifice, "Not necessarily material loss. Can mean decreasing the lower self to increase the higher." -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 41, Sacrifice (損 Sǔn) is formed by Mountain over Lake. It is also known as Decrease, The Symbol of Lessening, Loss, Diminishing, Reduction, Diminution of Excesses, Decline, Bringing into Balance. The judgment is James Legge. The six lines are R.L. Wing — the same texts used in a reading on this site.
The judgment
James Legge
Compensating Sacrifice means that sincerely maintained rectitude brings great success. Action is appropriate if one's sacrifice is sincere -- even two baskets of grain, though there be nothing else, may be offered.
The six lines
R.L. Wing · line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yang
When you are in a position to help others or to be helped yourself, be certain that moderation is exercised. To give or take too much can result in an imbalanced situation. Think this through carefully before acting.
- Line 2Yang
When aiding others, be certain to maintain your sense of dignity. If the nature of your task diminishes your strength or compromises your principles, or if you sacrifice your personality to please your superior, you are acting shamefully. Only efforts that do not diminish your Self are worthwhile.
- Line 3Yin
The closest bonds are now possible only between two persons. Groups of three create jealousy and mistrust and will eventually splinter. Yet someone who remains alone becomes lonely and will seek a companion. It is time to strike a proper balance.
- Line 4Yin
If you can now locate your shortcomings and bad habits and make a serious attempt to decrease them you will be approached by friends and helpers. A humble attitude on your part will open the way to progressive interaction and joy.
- Line 5Yin
You are marked by fate. Nothing stands in the way of this. It comes about through refined inner forces that have led you into this situation. Fear nothing. Good fortune.
- Line 6Yang
Expand your goals to encompass a more universal pursuit. In this way others will lend support. Your successes will lead you to a new public awareness. You may find this social position and responsibility a desirable new life-style and a benefit to many
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 41 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings.