Hexagram 27, Line 2

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line describes a situation of fundamental imbalance and misdirection in how one seeks sustenance and support. "Inverted nourishment" (顛頤) signifies a state where one is trying to get what they need from an improper source or in an unnatural way. Instead of relying on one's own resources or seeking support from appropriate peers, one "deviates from the normal course" (拂經) and looks upward to a distant, higher power—the "hill" (丘), which symbolizes the powerful Yang line at the top (Line 6). This is an act of unhealthy dependency. The individual feels inadequate and, rather than building from the ground up, seeks a shortcut by attaching themselves to someone far above them. The commentary highlights the social consequence of this: one "departs from their own kind," alienating peers and equals in the process. Therefore, to actively pursue this path ("to press forward," 征) is a grave error that will inevitably lead to misfortune (凶), humiliation, and failure, as the foundation for this support is unstable and improper.

Guidance for Action

Your current approach to getting what you need—be it support, resources, recognition, or energy—is fundamentally flawed and unsustainable. You are looking in the wrong direction and relying on an inappropriate source. Stop and reassess immediately. Do not continue on this path, as it will lead to negative consequences. You must abandon this strategy of unhealthy dependency. Turn your focus inward to cultivate your own strength and self-reliance. Instead of seeking patronage from those high above you, connect with your peers and those in a similar situation. Build a solid foundation based on your own competence and mutual support. The key is to correct your course, return to the proper way of doing things, and nourish yourself through your own efforts. Pushing forward now is a recipe for disaster. Be still, re-evaluate, and find the right path.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship context, this line points to a dynamic of unhealthy dependence. One partner may be "feeding" off the other's status, wealth, or emotional stability in a way that is not reciprocal or healthy. You may be in a relationship for the wrong reasons, seeking sustenance that you should be providing for yourself. This could manifest as being with someone purely for their social standing or financial security, while neglecting the development of your own self-worth. This "inverted" dynamic goes against the principles of a true partnership and alienates you from a more suitable match. Continuing to pursue or remain in such a relationship will lead to heartbreak and misfortune. The guidance is to seek independence and find your own inner strength before you can engage in a healthy, balanced partnership.

For Career & Business

This line serves as a strong warning against trying to advance your career through improper means. You might be bypassing your direct responsibilities and colleagues to "suck up" to a high-level executive, hoping for patronage. This strategy of "seeking nourishment from the hill" will backfire. It alienates your team and your direct manager, who are your proper support system ("your own kind"). Your actions are seen as a deviation from the normal professional path, and while you might gain temporary favor, actively pursuing this course will ultimately lead to you being isolated and your career prospects suffering. Focus on your actual job, deliver excellent work, and build solid, respectful relationships with your immediate colleagues and superiors. True advancement comes from competence, not from fawning dependency.

For Financial Matters

This line indicates a dangerous financial strategy. You are seeking funds or financial security from an unsustainable and inappropriate source. This could mean relying on high-interest loans, depending entirely on handouts from family or a benefactor, or investing in a speculative "get-rich-quick" scheme pitched by a powerful but distant figure. This path "deviates from the normal course" of sound financial management. To "press forward" with this strategy—taking on more debt, continuing to rely on others, or pouring more money into a risky venture—will lead to significant financial loss and misfortune. You must stop immediately. Return to the fundamentals of earning, budgeting, and saving. Cultivate financial self-reliance rather than depending on a source that has no stable or proper connection to you.