Hexagram Yu

Legend has it that when King Zhou of Shang began using ivory chopsticks, his uncle Ji Zi was very worried. Ji Zi's concern wasn't just about the chopsticks themselves, but about how a person's pursuit of luxury could lead to ever-growing desires and ultimately a loss of proper respect and restraint. The *Lüshi Chunqiu* (Master Lü's Spring and Autumn Annals), in its chapter on ancient music, also records that the Shang people tamed elephants and used them in warfare. Besides, elephants were also used to aid in production. Whether in war or production, elephants could be helpful, amplifying human power and leading to greater gains. With increased harvests and more abundant resources, people naturally feel satisfied, and the character "豫" (Yu) gradually came to mean harmony and happiness. "豫" can also be related to "余" (Yu). The silk manuscript of "余" helps us understand "豫" from another perspective: surplus, abundance, a state of wealth and affluence. Therefore: Elephant → Utilizing the power of elephants → Increased harvest → Surplus, affluence → Satisfaction, happiness → 豫 (Yu). However, the *Yu* hexagram doesn't stop there with "happiness" and "happiness." While the character "豫" (yù) signifies joy and peace, it doesn't encourage indulging in pleasure alone. Rather, it emphasizes acting in accordance with the times. The core principle is: "Acting in accordance with the times."