Ta Chuang / The Power of the Great

above: Ch^ en The Arousing, Thunder
below: Ch'ien The Creative, Heaven

The third [nine], undivided, shows, in the case of the small man, one using all his strength; and in the case of the superior man, one whose rule is not to do so. Even with firm correctness the position would be perilous. (The exercise of strength in it might be compared to the case of) a ram butting against a fence, and getting his horns entangled.

Line 3 is strong, and in its proper place. It is at the top moreover of Khien. A small man so symbolled will use his strength to the utmost; but not so the superior man. For him the position is beyond the safe middle, and he will be cautious; and not injure himself, like the ram, by exerting his strength.