Hexagram 28, Line 5
Preponderance of the Great (大过)
九五
The Line Text
九五，枯楊生華，老婦得其士夫，无咎无譽。
A withered poplar sprouts flowers. An old woman gains a virile husband. No blame, no praise.
The Commentary says: Commentary: A withered poplar sprouting flowers—how can this last long? An old woman marrying a young man—this is a matter of shame.
Interpretation
This line presents a remarkable, almost miraculous, image of renewal against all odds. The "withered poplar" and the "old woman" both symbolize things that are past their prime, seemingly barren and without a future. Yet, unexpectedly, life blossoms forth. The poplar flowers, and the woman finds a suitable, energetic partner. This line, situated in the powerful fifth position (the ruler's place), shows a connection downwards to the second line (the "young husband"). This is an unconventional alliance where strength and authority (the fifth line) connect with youthful energy below, creating a surprising and fruitful outcome in a time of great pressure (the overall theme of Hexagram 28). The judgment "No blame, no praise" is the key to understanding this line. There is "no blame" because something positive has been achieved; life has been renewed where none was expected. It is a functional, if strange, solution to a difficult situation. However, there is "no praise" because the situation is fundamentally unnatural and likely temporary. As the commentary critically notes, such a flowering cannot last long. The union is seen as somewhat shameful or awkward by conventional standards. It is a stopgap measure, a moment of grace, not a glorious and enduring victory. It signifies a brilliant but perhaps short-lived success born of unusual circumstances.
Guidance for Action
You are in a situation that seems depleted or past its best. Do not be afraid to seek or accept unconventional solutions and alliances. An opportunity for renewal is present, but it may come from an unexpected source—perhaps a junior partner, a new technology applied to an old system, or a fresh perspective on a stale problem. Be open to collaborations that defy convention, such as partnering with someone with less experience but more energy and new ideas. Seize this moment of rejuvenation and make the most of it. However, remain realistic. This burst of productivity or good fortune may not be a permanent state. Do not boast about your success, as others may view your methods as strange or inappropriate. Act with quiet confidence, accepting the benefit without seeking applause. Your goal is to navigate the current extraordinary pressure, and this unusual solution allows you to do so without fault.
For Love & Relationships
This line often points to a surprising new romance or a revitalization of a long-term relationship, especially when one or both partners felt that the time for such passion was past. It can literally indicate a relationship with a significant age difference (the "old woman" and "young husband" dynamic) or a partnership between people from vastly different backgrounds. While this union brings genuine joy and new life, it may face scrutiny or a lack of understanding from others ("no praise"). The advice is to focus on the happiness and connection you share, rather than on external validation. Enjoy this "second spring" for the beautiful, if perhaps temporary, gift that it is, without placing undue pressure on it to conform to a conventional ideal.
For Career & Business
An old project that was considered dead may suddenly show signs of life and potential for success. This could also represent you, in a senior or established role, finding a new burst of creativity and productivity by collaborating with a younger, more energetic colleague or by adopting a bold, new approach. This partnership or new method will be surprisingly effective, solving a critical problem. However, the solution might be seen as unorthodox by your peers or superiors. Do not seek accolades for it. The result will speak for itself. Your focus should be on achieving the goal, not on how it looks to others. This success will help you navigate a period of intense pressure at work.
For Financial Matters
This line suggests an unexpected and positive turn in your financial situation. An asset or investment that you had written off as a loss (the "withered poplar") may suddenly produce a surprising profit. You might also find a successful financial partnership with someone unconventional. While this is a fortunate event, it is not a signal of a permanent new trend. The commentary's warning—"how can this last long?"—advises caution. Take the profit, secure your gains, and be grateful for this stroke of luck. Do not become overconfident or assume this unusual source of income is stable for the long term. It is a welcome reprieve, not a new foundation for your wealth.
