I / Increase
above:Sun The Gentle, Wind
below:Ch^ en The Arousing, Thunder
The third [six], divided, shows increase given to its subject by means of what is evil, so that he shall (be led to good) and be without blame. Let him be sincere and pursue the path of the Mean, (so shall he secure the recognition of the ruler, like) an officer who announces himself to his prince by the symbol of his rank.
Line 3 is weak, neither central, nor in its correct position. It would seem therefore that its subject should have no increase given to him. But it is the time for giving increase, and the idea of his receiving it by means of evil things is put into the line. That such things serve for reproof and correction is well known to the Chinese moralists. But the paragraph goes on also to caution and admonish.