Hexagram 35, Line 1
Progress (晋)
初六
The Line Text
初六,晉如,摧如,貞吉。罔孚,裕無咎。
At the beginning, a yin line: Progressing, yet pushed back. Perseverance brings good fortune. If one is met with no confidence, be broad-minded and there will be no blame.
The Commentary says: The commentary says: "Progressing, yet pushed back" means one is acting alone but correctly. "To be broad-minded brings no blame" because one has not yet received an official mandate or trust.
Interpretation
This line describes the very first step in a time of progress. There is a desire and an attempt to advance, but it is immediately met with resistance or a setback ("pushed back"). This opposition does not arise because the direction is wrong, but because trust has not yet been established. You are acting correctly, but on your own initiative, without the formal support or confidence of others. The key to navigating this situation is twofold: first, remain steadfast and true to your principles ("Perseverance brings good fortune"). Second, instead of becoming resentful or forceful in the face of doubt, you must adopt a generous, patient, and broad-minded attitude. By remaining calm and magnanimous, you avoid creating conflict and prove your worth through character, ultimately clearing the way for future advancement without fault.
Guidance for Action
You are at the beginning of a new venture or phase of life. Your ambition is justified, but expect initial obstacles or skepticism from others. Do not be discouraged by this lack of immediate support. It is a test of your resolve and character. Your primary task is to hold firmly to your correct course of action. Do not try to force acceptance or demand recognition. Instead, be patient and generous with those who doubt you. Let your consistent, high-quality work and unwavering integrity speak for themselves. Your magnanimity will dissolve the resistance and allow you to proceed when the time is right.
For Love & Relationships
In a relationship, this line points to a nascent stage where one partner wishes to move things forward, but encounters hesitation or a lack of trust from the other. This isn't a rejection, but a sign that confidence needs more time to build. Pushing for greater commitment now will only create more resistance. The best approach is to be patient, understanding, and generous with your affection, without demanding reciprocation. Remain true to your feelings and demonstrate your reliability through consistent, kind actions. This steadfastness and magnanimity will eventually overcome the initial doubts and lead to a fortunate and blame-free progression of the relationship.
For Career & Business
You may be starting a new job, proposing a new project, or seeking a promotion. Your initiative and ideas are sound, but you are met with a lack of trust or support from superiors or colleagues. You are seen as an unproven quantity. This initial "push back" is not a sign of failure but a natural part of earning your place. The correct response is not to become defensive or aggressive, but to persevere quietly in doing good work. Be generous with your colleagues, maintain a positive attitude, and don't take the skepticism personally. Your consistent performance and broad-minded approach will eventually win the confidence you need to advance.
For Financial Matters
This line suggests you have a new financial plan or investment idea that is met with doubt from partners, advisors, or even the market itself. An initial investment might show a small, temporary loss, causing you to second-guess yourself. The guidance here is to trust your well-researched plan ("Perseverance brings good fortune") but to be patient. Do not expect immediate, spectacular returns. The lack of confidence from others means you should not overextend yourself or rely on their capital yet. Be "broad-minded" with your expectations, allowing your investments time to mature. By sticking to sound principles and not panicking at the first sign of resistance, you will avoid making a costly error.