Pushing Upward

允升，大吉。

An ascent that is accepted. Greatly favorable.

The ascent at Line 1 is welcomed or supported, rather than forced. Changing the yielding base makes Heaven below Earth, Hexagram 11. The openness of Peace offers a comparison with this supported beginning.

孚乃利用禴，无咎。

With trust, even a simple seasonal offering is fitting. No fault.

Line 2 makes sincerity, rather than the size of an offering, the condition that matters. Changing it turns lower Wind into Mountain, Hexagram 15, while Earth remains above. The comparison sets sincere service beside an image of modesty.

升虛邑。

Ascending into an empty city.

The empty city in Line 3 presents an ascent without visible resistance. Changing the line makes Water below Earth, Hexagram 7, whose sole firm line is at the lower center. An open route and the organization of a collective are separate images to compare.

王用亨于岐山，吉，无咎。

The king makes an offering at Mount Qi. Favorable. No fault.

The king’s offering at Mount Qi marks a ritual act within the ascent. Changing Line 4 makes Thunder above Wind, Hexagram 32. The single rite can be considered alongside the theme of duration.

貞吉，升階。

Constancy is favorable. Ascending by steps.

Line 5 describes a stepwise ascent and gives a favorable verdict to constancy. Its change makes Water above Wind, Hexagram 48. The stair describes an ascent; the well draws nourishment up from below.

冥升，利于不息之貞。

Ascending in darkness. Unceasing constancy is beneficial.

The final ascent is dark or blind. Traditional readings distinguish steadfastness in conduct from restless upward striving. Changing Line 6 makes Mountain above Wind, Hexagram 18, adding the theme of stopping to address decay.