Hexagram 35, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line paints a vivid and unflattering picture of progress. The image is of a "shí shǔ," a hamster or marmot—a small, timid rodent known for scurrying and hoarding. This is not the noble, sunlit progress suggested by the hexagram's name, but a greedy, fearful, and undignified advance. The individual is likely in a position of some influence (the fourth line is the minister's place, close to the ruler), but they lack the inherent virtue or legitimacy for it. The commentary states the "position is not appropriate" because this is a weak yin line in a strong yang place. This mismatch between character and role leads to improper conduct. The person advances not through merit but through opportunistic, self-serving actions, hoarding resources or information for personal gain. The warning "perseverance brings danger" is a stark reversal of the I Ching's usual advice. Here, to persist on this path of selfish, rodent-like progress is to court disaster. Such gains are hollow and will attract suspicion, resentment, and ultimately, a severe downfall.

Guidance for Action

It is crucial to pause and conduct a serious self-examination. Look honestly at your motives for seeking advancement. Are you acting for the greater good, or are you driven by greed and a desire to hoard small advantages for yourself? Assess your current position: are you acting with the integrity and authority your role requires, or are you overstepping your bounds and operating from a place of weakness? The clear guidance of this line is to *stop* this type of progress immediately. Do not persevere. Continuing this course of action is dangerous. Retreat from these undignified tactics, correct your behavior, and focus on building genuine merit and virtue. Generosity, transparency, and integrity are the antidotes to the hamster-like hoarding instinct described here.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship context, this line warns against progress that is forced, possessive, or based on selfish motives. One partner may be "scurrying" after the other, trying to hoard their affection, control their time, or use the relationship for personal gain (like status or security) rather than genuine connection. This creates an unhealthy dynamic where the "progress" feels needy and lacks dignity. If you are the one pushing, recognize that persisting in this manner will only drive your partner away and lead to a painful outcome. Step back and give the relationship space. If you feel you are the object of this kind of attention, be wary. This is not a foundation for a healthy, trusting partnership. True progress in love comes from mutual respect and open-heartedness, not from grasping and hoarding.

For Career & Business

This line points to a dangerous situation at work. You, or someone you observe, may be in a position of some authority but are acting without integrity. This could manifest as hoarding resources, taking credit for others' work, engaging in petty office politics, or using your position for small, personal gains. This "hamster-like" ambition is seen by others as undignified and untrustworthy. Because your position or your actions are inappropriate, continuing down this path is perilous. It will erode trust with your colleagues and superiors and could lead to demotion, being sidelined, or even termination. The advice is to immediately cease these activities. Focus on collaboration, transparency, and achieving goals through legitimate merit rather than scurrying for scraps of advantage.

For Financial Matters

This line serves as a strong warning against greed-driven financial strategies. It describes an approach to wealth that involves hoarding, making small and questionable gains, or participating in "get rich quick" schemes. Like a hamster stuffing its cheeks, you might be accumulating assets, but the method is unsustainable and the foundation is weak. Persisting in this strategy is dangerous; it is a path that could lead to sudden and severe financial losses, legal trouble, or ruin. This is not the time for risky speculation or unethical ventures. The guidance is to halt these activities, secure your assets in a safe and transparent manner, and shift your focus to steady, honorable, and long-term financial growth. Avoid any financial dealings that feel secretive or undignified.