Hexagram 13, Line 5

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line, being the ruler of the hexagram, describes the climax of the struggle for unity. The person represented by this line is in a strong, central, and correct position, destined to bring about fellowship. However, the path is fraught with immense difficulty. The correspondent to this strong yang line is the receptive yin line in the second place, but they are separated by two other yang lines (in the third and fourth places), which represent formidable obstacles, rivals, or misunderstandings. This separation and the ensuing conflict cause great initial sorrow, frustration, and anguish, symbolized by "wailing and crying." Yet, because the leader's position is righteous and their will for unity is powerful, they are able to muster the strength ("the great army") to break through these barriers. The successful meeting signifies a hard-won victory. The initial pain and struggle make the final reunion and achievement all the more joyful, leading to triumphant laughter. This line teaches that true, profound unity is often forged in the crucible of adversity.

Guidance for Action

You are currently facing significant obstacles on your path to achieving a goal, particularly one that involves bringing people together. The situation may feel desperate, causing you pain and frustration. Do not despair. Your position is fundamentally strong, and your aim is a just one. You must accept that a difficult struggle is necessary. Acknowledge the pain, but do not let it defeat you. Marshal all your resources, gather your allies, and persevere with unwavering determination. The barriers that seem insurmountable now can be overcome. Endure this period of trial, because a great victory awaits. The relief and joy you will feel after succeeding will be profound and well-earned.

For Love & Relationships

This line points to a relationship that faces severe challenges. You and your partner (or desired partner) may be separated by distance, family disapproval, misunderstandings, or the interference of others. This situation is causing you both significant emotional pain and sorrow. However, the bond between you is genuine and strong at its core. You are meant to be together, but you must fight for it. The "great army meeting" signifies that by facing these challenges head-on together, you can overcome them. The current tears and heartache are part of the journey, but they will eventually be replaced by the joy and laughter of a successful, hard-won reunion. Have faith in the connection and be prepared to endure the struggle.

For Career & Business

In your professional life, you are attempting to unite a team, forge a critical partnership, or lead a major project, but you are meeting with powerful resistance. There may be competing factions, communication breakdowns, or logistical nightmares that are causing immense stress and threatening to derail the entire endeavor. As the leader, you feel the weight of this struggle acutely. This line assures you that your vision and leadership are correct. You must rally your forces and confront the problems directly and decisively. It will be a tough battle, and there will be moments of despair. But if you persevere, you will succeed in breaking through the deadlock, bringing everyone together, and achieving a major success that will bring great relief and satisfaction.

For Financial Matters

You are likely experiencing a period of intense financial anxiety. A significant investment may be underperforming, a business partnership may be mired in conflict that blocks profits, or you may be facing unexpected losses that cause you to "wail and cry." It feels as though your resources and your financial goals are separated by a vast chasm of problems. This line is a powerful message of hope. Your underlying financial strategy is sound, but you must endure a period of significant struggle to see it through. You need to take decisive action to overcome the obstacles blocking your success. This period of stress will pass, and the different elements of your financial world will finally align ("the great army succeeds in meeting"), leading to a resolution, recovery, and eventual laughter of relief and success.