Hexagram 21, Line 3

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line signifies confronting a difficult and long-standing problem, symbolized by "old, dried meat." The issue is not fresh or simple; it is tough, stubborn, and requires significant effort to resolve. In the process of tackling this deep-seated issue, you encounter unexpected resistance, bitterness, or a negative reaction, which is the "poison." This setback is discouraging and may cause a "slight humiliation" or a feeling of regret. The difficulty arises, as the commentary notes, because your position is "not appropriate." You may lack the necessary authority, power, or status to handle this matter with ease. You are a yielding (yin) force in a position that demands assertive (yang) action. Despite the unpleasantness and the setback, the line concludes with "no blame." This is because the effort to resolve the old issue is fundamentally correct and necessary, even if the execution is imperfect and the results are temporarily painful.

Guidance for Action

You must proceed with resolving an old, challenging problem, but do so with full awareness of the difficulties ahead. Do not expect a quick or clean victory. Be prepared to encounter resistance, resentment, or hidden complications. When this "poison" emerges, do not be discouraged or see it as a personal failure. It is an inherent part of the challenge, stemming from your less-than-ideal position to enforce a solution. Your task is not to be a glorious hero but a persistent problem-solver. Acknowledge your limitations, act with humility, and accept the minor setbacks as the price of progress. Pushing through this unpleasant phase is necessary, and you will not be held at fault for the struggle involved in doing what is right.

For Love & Relationships

This line points to the necessity of addressing a long-standing issue within a relationship. This could be an old wound, a recurring argument, or a deep-seated incompatibility that has been ignored. Bringing it up feels like chewing on tough, "old meat." As you try to resolve it, you will likely stir up "poisonous" emotions—bitterness, resentment, or painful memories. The conversation may become difficult and cause you or your partner some "humiliation" or distress. However, the I Ching advises that this process, however painful, is necessary and without blame. The relationship cannot move forward without biting through this tough issue. Your approach must be careful and humble, as you may not be in a position of strength to dictate the outcome.

For Career & Business

In your professional life, you are faced with tackling an entrenched problem. This might be an outdated system, a toxic team dynamic, or a difficult project inherited from a predecessor. As you begin to implement changes, you meet with unexpected resistance, office politics, or discover the problem is far worse than you imagined ("encountering poison"). This can lead to a temporary setback, making you feel ineffective or embarrassed. This is because you may lack the full authority or support to enforce the changes smoothly. The guidance here is to persevere. The task is necessary, and your efforts to address it are correct, even if they are met with difficulty. Do not be deterred by the "slight humiliation," as you will ultimately not be blamed for the inherent challenges of the situation.

For Financial Matters

You are attempting to resolve a complex and "old" financial matter, such as a long-standing debt, a tangled inheritance, or a poorly performing investment from the past. As you dig into the details, you uncover unpleasant truths—hidden fees, greater losses than anticipated, or legal complications. This "poison" is a discouraging setback that may cause a small financial loss or a feeling of foolishness ("slight humiliation"). The I Ching affirms that your effort to sort out this mess is correct. It is a necessary, albeit painful, cleanup. You are not at fault for the difficulty of the situation itself, only for trying to bring order to it. Endure the unpleasant process to achieve long-term financial clarity.