Hexagram 16, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line is the single most important line in the hexagram. As the only yang (strong, active) line, it is the ruler of the hexagram and the very source (由) of the enthusiasm described. You are not just carried along by enthusiasm; you are the one generating it. Your confidence, clarity, and vision are the central, magnetic force that inspires and energizes everyone around you. The text urges you to fully embrace this role with unwavering conviction: "Do not doubt." Any hesitation on your part will cause the entire structure of enthusiasm to falter. The image of friends gathering "like hair gathered by a hairpin" is a powerful metaphor for unity. The hairpin is a small, single object that brings together and holds many individual strands. Likewise, your singular, focused will (as the commentary notes, "the will is grandly carried out") has the power to unite people, resources, and ideas into a cohesive and effective whole. This is a moment of significant influence and potential for great success, predicated entirely on your self-trust and steadfastness.

Guidance for Action

This is a call to leadership. Step into your power and recognize that you are the central figure in the current situation. Your vision is the catalyst for what is to come. Your primary task is to banish self-doubt and trust your instincts completely. Communicate your ideas with clarity, passion, and conviction. Your confidence will be contagious, naturally attracting the support, allies, and resources you need to succeed. Do not wait for others to take the lead or for permission to act. Be the "hairpin"—the unifying point around which others can rally. Your determined will is the key that unlocks great achievements for yourself and for the group you inspire.

For Love & Relationships

In matters of love and relationships, you are the charismatic heart of the situation. Your positive energy and self-assurance are incredibly attractive right now. If you are single, this is a time to be authentically and enthusiastically yourself; others will be drawn to your confidence and zest for life. Do not doubt your own worth or appeal. If you are in a relationship, you have the opportunity to be the inspiring partner who brings new energy, vision, and joy to the union. Your certainty about your shared future can unite you and your partner, strengthening your bond and encouraging you to pursue common goals. Taking the lead in planning joyful activities or making important decisions together will be well-received and highly effective.

For Career & Business

This line points to a major opportunity for leadership and influence in your professional life. You are, or have the potential to be, the source of a key project, a new initiative, or the motivating spirit of your team. Your ideas have merit, and your ability to articulate them with conviction will rally colleagues, superiors, and clients to your cause. Do not second-guess your strategy. Present your proposals with the full force of your belief behind them. You are the "hairpin" that can bring together different departments, stakeholders, or team members into a unified, productive force. Great professional success is attainable, but it hinges on you embracing your role as the confident, central visionary.

For Financial Matters

Your financial judgment is sound and potent at this time. This line indicates that you are the source of a promising financial strategy or investment idea. Trust your own analysis and intuition above all else. "Do not doubt" is a direct command to overcome any fear or hesitation regarding your financial plans. Your confidence can act as a magnet for opportunity, perhaps attracting co-investors or partners who believe in your vision. You may be the one to unify a group for a joint venture, with your clarity serving as the binding agent. Significant financial gains ("great achievements") are directly linked to your unwavering belief in and execution of your financial strategy. This is a time for decisive, confident action.