The Qian hexagram represents the epitome of pure yang energy within the sixty-four hexagrams, embodying the utmost expression of yang. Thus, it encompasses all the fundamental attributes of “yang” as elucidated in the previous discourse on “The Mutual Images of the Two Principles,” as well as the basic properties of the Qian hexagram among the eight trigrams (refer to “The Mutual Images of the Eight Trigrams”).
Qian: “Heaven excels, favorable for perseverance.” The image suggests: “Heaven operates with vigor; noble individuals strive for ceaseless self-improvement.”
The term “元” carries connotations of “original,” “grand,” and “fundamental elements.” “亨” signifies smoothness or prosperity. “元亨” thus denotes the utmost smoothness or prosperity.
“利” conveys meanings of “benefit” or “advantage.” “贞” implies purity or integrity. “利贞” indicates advantage through purity.
The hexagram imagery: “Heaven operates with vigor; noble individuals strive for ceaseless self-improvement.” The Qian hexagram symbolizes the principle of celestial order, where the essence of Heaven’s operation is robustness. “Noble individuals” are encouraged to emulate this virtue of Heaven and persevere tirelessly in self-enhancement. “The spirit of ‘self-improvement’ embodies the essence of traditional Chinese culture, advocating for the relentless cultivation of morality, the continual overcoming of personal flaws, and the enhancement of one’s abilities to attain unity with the vast cosmos, a state often referred to as ‘harmony between heaven and humanity.’ This ideal state, known as ‘unity of heaven and humanity,’ represents the pinnacle of traditional Chinese cultural aspirations.
‘Self-improvement’ entails inner striving, stemming from intrinsic motivation rather than succumbing to external temptations or pressures. Only when ‘self-improvement’ possesses such inherent qualities can it be truly ceaseless—a perpetual endeavor. Pursuing improvement solely to satisfy temptations renders the endeavor futile once those temptations are appeased, while striving under external pressures loses its impetus once those pressures dissipate. Thus, external motivations cannot sustain perpetual progress.
Those who relentlessly pursue self-improvement are driven by an intrinsic force, with their life’s ideal being the exploration of cosmic truths leading to the unity of heaven and humanity. Beyond this pursuit, there lies nothing else. Their profound inner drive emanates from self-awareness, self-assurance, self-volition, and self-strengthening, rendering them masters of their own destiny, unfettered by any external influences, embodying the essence of true humanity—a ‘true person.'” Certainly! Please provide the text you’d like me to translate, improve, and transform into more literary and advanced English.
