Hexagram 46, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line marks a significant and auspicious moment in the process of "Pushing Upward." The fourth position is that of a minister close to the ruler (the fifth line), having successfully ascended from the lower trigram. The image is of a king making a sacrificial offering at Mount Qi. This is a powerful historical and spiritual allusion. Mount Qi was the ancestral home of the Zhou dynasty, the place where they laid the virtuous foundation for their eventual rise to power. For a king to make offerings there is an act of deep sincerity, piety, and reverence for the source of his strength and legitimacy. It signifies that the upward movement is not driven by naked ambition but is aligned with a higher purpose and grounded in correct principles. The progress is not only successful but is also blessed and recognized by a higher authority (be it Heaven, the ancestors, or the collective will). The commentary's emphasis on "acting in accord with what is appropriate" underscores this point. The success is smooth and unopposed because the actions are righteous and humble. This line indicates that your efforts have been recognized and your position is secure because you have acted with integrity. The path forward is now clear and sanctioned.

Guidance for Action

Your progress is now clearly visible and has been met with approval. This is a moment for consolidation and gratitude, not for a reckless push forward. Your success is rooted in your sincerity and your adherence to core principles. The guidance of this line is to perform an act of "offering at Mount Qi." In practical terms, this means acknowledging the foundations of your success. Express gratitude to your mentors, your team, and the principles that have guided you. Reconnect with your core mission or purpose. By demonstrating humility and respect for the source of your strength, you secure your current position and ensure that your future ascent will be smooth and unopposed. Trust in the process; your advancement is unfolding naturally and correctly.

For Love & Relationships

In the context of love and relationships, this line signifies a profound and blessed step forward. The relationship is ascending to a new level of seriousness and commitment, built on a strong foundation of shared values and mutual respect ("Mount Qi"). This could manifest as a formal commitment like an engagement or marriage, meeting the family and receiving their blessing, or a deep, heartfelt acknowledgment of your devotion to one another. The progress feels natural, right, and supported by those around you. It is a time of sincere connection where both partners are aligned in their purpose. The guidance is to honor this moment with a gesture of sincere gratitude and commitment, solidifying the sacred ground upon which your relationship is built.

For Career & Business

This is a highly auspicious line for your career. It indicates that your hard work, skill, and integrity have been recognized by those in authority. You are being "seen" as a valuable and trustworthy contributor. This may manifest as a significant promotion, being entrusted with a key project, or receiving public praise from leadership. Like the king at Mount Qi, your success is perceived as legitimate and well-deserved. Your advancement is not just a personal win but is seen as beneficial to the entire organization. The guidance is to accept this recognition with humility. Thank your superiors and colleagues, and reaffirm your commitment to the company's mission. Your sincere dedication is what has opened this door; continue to act from this place of integrity.

For Financial Matters

This line points to a significant and positive development in your financial life, one that is the result of past discipline and principled action. Your "Mount Qi" is the solid financial foundation you have built through patient saving, wise investing, and ethical conduct. Now, you are seeing the rewards. This could be a long-term investment coming to fruition, a well-deserved bonus, or a financial opportunity that opens up because of your good reputation. The success is not a stroke of luck from a risky gamble, but the natural and blessed outcome of your steady, upward-pushing efforts. The guidance is to be grateful for this financial gain. Use it to further strengthen your foundation rather than squandering it. Your responsible stewardship has been rewarded; continue on this virtuous path.