Hexagram 27, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line describes a situation of "inverted" or "topsy-turvy" nourishment. The fourth line is in the upper trigram, a position of influence and responsibility, tasked with nourishing those below. However, as a yin line, it lacks the inherent strength and resources for this task. Therefore, it must look upward to the strong, benevolent, and correctly positioned leader in the fifth place for sustenance, guidance, and authority. This is the meaning of "topsy-turvy nourishment"—receiving from above to give to those below. The image of "staring like a tiger, its desire in continuous pursuit" is powerful. This is not a passive or weak waiting. It signifies an intense, focused, and vigilant search for the right kind of support and wisdom. The "tiger" is hungry for the correct principles and resources needed to fulfill its duty. Because this intense desire is not for selfish gain but for the benefit of all, and because it is directed toward a worthy source (the leader in the fifth line), it is met with good fortune and is free from blame. This line represents the essential role of a dedicated minister, manager, or helper who, by seeking guidance from a wise leader, becomes a brilliant conduit of that wisdom and care to others.

Guidance for Action

You are in a position where others look to you for support, guidance, or sustenance, but you may feel you lack the necessary resources or knowledge to provide it adequately. Recognize your limitations without shame. Your task now is to actively and intensely seek help from a higher source—be it a mentor, a leader, a trusted expert, or a body of established wisdom. Do not be passive; your search must be focused and persistent, like a tiger hunting its prey. Your motivation must be pure: to acquire the means to fulfill your responsibilities effectively. By humbly and diligently seeking this "nourishment" from above, you will be able to distribute it successfully, leading to good fortune and earning you respect, not blame.

For Love & Relationships

In your relationship, you may feel a strong responsibility to provide emotional, spiritual, or practical nourishment to your partner or family, but feel you are falling short. This line advises you to look for inspiration and guidance. This could mean looking to your partner if they possess a wisdom or strength you can learn from. More broadly, it means actively seeking models of healthy relationships, reading books, or even seeking counseling. Your desire to be a better partner is intense and focused ("staring like a tiger"). This dedicated effort to learn and grow for the sake of the relationship is a source of great strength. It is not a sign of weakness but of profound commitment, and it will bring positive results and deeper connection.

For Career & Business

You are in a leadership or managerial role, but you may feel under-equipped for the challenges at hand. Instead of pretending to have all the answers, your path to success lies in looking to senior leadership, a mentor, or industry experts for guidance and resources. Your focus should be sharp and your pursuit of knowledge relentless. Actively seek out the company's vision, ask for the support you need, and learn from those with more experience. By becoming an effective conduit for the wisdom and resources from above, you will successfully nourish your team and your projects. This proactive search for support will be seen as a strength, leading to positive outcomes and averting failure.

For Financial Matters

You have financial responsibilities, perhaps to your family or a business, but you feel your own resources or knowledge are insufficient. This is not the time for independent, risky ventures. The "topsy-turvy nourishment" indicates that you must seek help from a competent and trustworthy source. This is the time to stare "like a tiger" at market data, to diligently research, and to find a skilled financial advisor or mentor. Your intense desire to secure a stable financial future will be rewarded if you channel it into learning from experts rather than gambling on your own. By seeking and applying sound financial wisdom from a higher authority, you can successfully manage your responsibilities without blame.