Hexagram 21, Line 5

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line, being the ruling line of the hexagram, signifies a person in a position of authority and responsibility, like a judge or a leader, tasked with resolving a difficult and entrenched problem. The "dried meat" is a metaphor for a case that is tough, old, and hard to penetrate. It requires significant effort and strong teeth to bite through. However, within this difficult task lies a great reward: "yellow gold." Gold symbolizes not just material wealth, but also incorruptible truth, core principles, and ultimate justice. The color yellow is associated with the center, balance, and correctness. Therefore, by tackling this hard problem with persistence and clarity, one uncovers a fundamental truth or achieves a just and valuable outcome. The phrase "Perseverance in the face of danger (貞厲)" is a crucial warning. The task is not without risk; dealing with tough issues can provoke resistance and opposition. Yet, because the person is acting from a correct and authoritative position (as the commentary states, "one's position is appropriate"), and they remain firm and upright (貞), their decisive actions, though potentially severe, will ultimately be "without blame (无咎)." It is a call to use one's power and clarity to enforce justice, even when it is difficult.

Guidance for Action

You are currently facing a complex and long-standing issue. It may seem daunting and hard to resolve. Do not shy away from it. Your position gives you the authority and responsibility to act decisively. You must "bite through" this problem with firmness and determination. Be aware that this course of action involves risks and will likely meet with resistance. You must remain steadfast, impartial, and committed to what is right. Your clarity of purpose will be your greatest asset. If you handle this difficult situation with integrity, you will not only solve the problem but also uncover something of great value—be it a core truth, a just resolution, or a significant opportunity. Though the process may be severe, your actions are necessary and will ultimately be vindicated.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship, this line points to the need to confront a chronic, difficult issue that has been ignored for too long. This is the "dried meat"—a deep-seated resentment, a persistent communication problem, or a fundamental incompatibility that has been glossed over. It will be a tough, uncomfortable conversation, and there's a risk (the "danger") of emotional turmoil or conflict. However, as the one who sees the problem clearly, you have a responsibility to address it. By "biting through" this issue with honesty and a commitment to the health of the relationship, you have the chance to find the "gold"—a new level of intimacy, trust, and understanding. Avoiding the problem will only let it fester. A difficult but necessary confrontation, handled with fairness and love, will lead to a stronger bond and is ultimately "without blame."

For Career & Business

In your professional life, you are in a position to tackle a significant and persistent problem. This could be an inefficient system, an underperforming team member, a flawed strategy, or a difficult negotiation. This is the "dried meat" that others have been unable or unwilling to handle. As a leader or person of influence (the "ruler" of the line), you must use your authority to make a decisive and potentially unpopular decision. The process will be challenging and may face resistance ("danger"). However, you must persevere with fairness and clarity. By successfully resolving this issue, you will not only improve the situation but also gain something valuable: enhanced respect, increased efficiency, a major success for your company, or a significant personal achievement ("finding gold"). Your correct and firm handling of the matter will justify the tough actions taken.

For Financial Matters

This line indicates that you need to take firm and decisive action regarding a difficult financial matter. This "dried meat" could be a long-standing debt, a poorly performing investment that you've been hesitant to sell, or a deeply ingrained habit of poor financial management. The situation requires a tough, objective approach. You must "bite through" it by creating a strict budget, liquidating a problematic asset, or confronting a financial reality you have been avoiding. This will be difficult and may involve short-term discomfort or risk ("danger"). However, by persevering with discipline and a clear-eyed view of the facts, you will uncover the "gold": financial stability, freed-up capital for better opportunities, and the peace of mind that comes from being in control. The difficult measures you implement now are necessary and will lead to a more secure financial future, free from blame.