# Hexagram 1 · Qián (乾) · Heaven's Strength

> **GuaCard #1 (Flow)**: Your strength is real; use it steadily. / 你的力量是真的，持续而正直地用它。

Six unbroken lines make this the hexagram of pure creative strength. It suggests you have real energy to move things forward, and the question is how steadily and honestly you use it. Progress comes from persistence rather than force. When things go well, stay humble: too much pressure invites resistance.

_Editorial summary_

## Judgment

乾：元亨。利貞。

Khien (represents) what is great and originating, penetrating, advantageous, correct and firm.

## Line 1

初九：潛龍勿用。

In the first (or lowest) line, undivided, (we see its subject as) the dragon lying hid (in the deep). It is not the time for active doing.

## Line 2

九二：見龍在田，利見大人。

In the second line, undivided, (we see its subject as) the dragon appearing in the field. It will be advantageous to meet with the great man.

## Line 3

九三：君子終日乾乾，夕惕若；厲，无咎。

In the third line, undivided, (we see its subject as) the superior man active and vigilant all the day, and in the evening still careful and apprehensive. (The position is) dangerous, but there will be no mistake.

## Line 4

九四：或躍在淵，无咎。

In the fourth line, undivided, (we see its subject as the dragon looking) as if he were leaping up, but still in the deep. There will be no mistake.

## Line 5

九五：飛龍在天，利見大人。

In the fifth line, undivided, (we see its subject as) the dragon on the wing in the sky. It will be advantageous to meet with the great man.

## Line 6

上九：亢龍，有悔。

In the sixth (or topmost) line, undivided, (we see its subject as) the dragon exceeding the proper limits. There will be occasion for repentance.

## Sources

- [周易 · 中文原文（Ruism Digital Library）](https://ruism.org/library/classic-of-changes/1#1.1)
- [James Legge, The Yî King (1882), Sacred Books of the East, XVI](https://ruism.org/library/classic-of-changes/1#1.1)