Hexagram 41, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line presents a pivotal and highly auspicious message within the context of Hexagram 41, Decrease. While the hexagram's overall theme involves letting go or sacrificing something, this line specifies that the most beneficial decrease is an internal one. The character "疾" (jí) means sickness or illness, but here it is used metaphorically to represent personal defects, character flaws, bad habits, or psychological burdens. This line advises that by identifying and actively working to diminish these inner "illnesses," one opens the way for immediate and genuine happiness. The joy is "swift" (遄, chuán) because removing a persistent internal obstacle brings an instant sense of relief, freedom, and clarity. The declaration of "No blame" (无咎, wú jiù) confirms that this form of self-cultivation is an unequivocally correct and praiseworthy path. It is a decrease that leads directly to a profound inner increase.

Guidance for Action

Your current focus should be on self-improvement and personal development. Look inward with honest self-assessment to identify a "fault" or a negative pattern that is holding you back. This could be anything from procrastination, a short temper, negative self-talk, to a specific unhealthy habit. The key is to see this not as a moment for self-criticism, but as an opportunity for liberation. Take concrete, immediate steps to address and "decrease" this issue. The relief and joy you feel will be almost immediate, validating your efforts. Don't be afraid to seek help from a trusted friend, mentor, or professional to gain perspective on what needs to be diminished. This is a time for pruning the inner garden to allow for healthy, joyful growth.

For Love & Relationships

In the context of love and relationships, this line points to a personal issue that is hindering connection and intimacy. This "fault" might be jealousy, insecurity, poor communication habits, defensiveness, or holding onto past hurts. The guidance is to stop blaming your partner or external circumstances and focus on diminishing this inner obstacle. By taking responsibility for your side of the dynamic and actively working to change, you can bring "swift joy" back into the relationship. The connection can become lighter, more authentic, and more loving very quickly. If you are single, this line advises you to work on personal blocks that may be preventing you from attracting a healthy relationship. By healing your own "sickness," you become ready for genuine love.

For Career & Business

In your professional life, this line suggests that your greatest opportunity for advancement lies in correcting a personal or professional shortcoming. This is not about a major corporate downsizing, but about you personally "decreasing" a weakness. It could be a skill gap that needs training, a habit of disorganization, a difficulty with public speaking, or a tendency to react poorly to feedback. By proactively addressing this "fault," you will not only improve your performance but also gain the notice and appreciation of colleagues and superiors, leading to "swift joy" in the form of recognition, smoother workflow, or new opportunities. Your willingness to improve yourself is your greatest asset right now.

For Financial Matters

This line offers very specific financial advice: your path to greater prosperity is not through cutting essential expenses, but through "decreasing" a bad financial habit or a "sickness" in your attitude toward money. This could be impulsive spending, an aversion to budgeting, living in financial denial, or a deep-seated scarcity mindset. Identify the core behavioral or psychological issue that undermines your financial health. By confronting and diminishing this habit, you will experience the "swift joy" of reduced anxiety and a newfound sense of control over your finances. This inner shift is the foundation upon which true, sustainable wealth is built.