I CHING HEXAGRAM
Hexagram 1: The Creative
Ch'ien · 乾
Pure primal energy. A time of creation and leadership.
- success
- leadership
- creation
- strength
- Upper trigram
- Heaven 乾 · Creative Force
- Lower trigram
- Heaven 乾 · Creative Force
The Judgment
THE CREATIVE works sublime success, furthering through perseverance.
The Image
The movement of heaven is full of power. Thus the superior man makes himself strong and untiring.
Meaning
The Creative stands for primal energy, the life impulse and pure action. It is a moment of great potential, initiative and leadership. This is no hour for passivity. You have the power to shape your reality, but it demands constant persistence.
In love
A strong yang energy is present. It may point to an assertive partner, or to your need to take the initiative. Passionate, dynamic relations — but beware of domination.
In work and business
The best moment to start projects, launch products or take command. The energy favors you, but demands hard work. Do not wait for things to happen; make them happen.
Symbolism
Heaven doubled. The dragon is its symbol. It stands for the spirit that animates matter — the force that never stops, the time that advances.
The six lines
Lines are counted from the bottom (1) to the top (6). A line is read only when it changes in your cast.
Nine in the 1st place
Hidden dragon. Do not act.
You have talent, but it is still early.
You have talent, but it is not yet time to show yourself. Prepare behind the scenes.
Nine in the 2nd place
Dragon appearing in the field. It furthers one to see the great man.
Begin to show your work. Seek mentors.
Your competence begins to be noticed. Leave isolation and seek people who can teach or help you.
Nine in the 3rd place
Active all day, watchful at night.
Success brings anxiety and much work.
A period of intense work and pressure. You may feel anxious, but keeping integrity and effort, you will make no mistakes.
Nine in the 4th place
Wavering flight over the depths.
A leap of faith. Test your wings.
You are testing your wings — a moment of doubt before a great leap. Trust your preparation.
Nine in the 5th place
Flying dragon in the heavens. It furthers one to see the great man.
The height of success. Lead with wisdom.
The height of success and clarity. You hold the position of leadership and vision. Your actions have great impact.
Nine in the 6th place
Arrogant dragon will have cause to repent.
Watch the ego. Know when to stop.
Beware of excess. You went too far, or sit isolated in an ivory tower. Step back to avoid the fall.
Frequently asked questions
What does hexagram 1 mean?
The Creative (Ch'ien): The Creative stands for primal energy, the life impulse and pure action. It is a moment of great potential, initiative and leadership. This is no hour for passivity. You have the power to shape your reality, but it demands constant persistence.
What does hexagram 1 say about love?
A strong yang energy is present. It may point to an assertive partner, or to your need to take the initiative. Passionate, dynamic relations — but beware of domination.
What does hexagram 1 say about work?
The best moment to start projects, launch products or take command. The energy favors you, but demands hard work. Do not wait for things to happen; make them happen.