Hexagram 55, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line presents a paradoxical and potent image within the time of Abundance. The sun, symbolizing peak clarity, power, and success, is suddenly obscured, as if by an eclipse. "The abundance is screened." In this unnatural darkness at high noon, the stars (the Big Dipper) become visible. This signifies a situation where the primary source of light, authority, or direction is temporarily blocked or hidden. Your own brilliance or the brilliance of the situation is veiled. The commentary notes this is because your position is "not appropriate" (a yang line in a yin place), suggesting your assertive energy is out of sync with the receptive needs of the moment. However, this darkness is not a disaster; it is an opportunity. Because the overwhelming light of the sun is gone, you are able to perceive other, subtler sources of wisdom—the stars. The key to success is to "meet one's equal master," a peer, a partner, or a collaborator who shares your nature and understands the situation. By joining forces with this like-minded individual, you can navigate the temporary obscurity and move forward with good fortune.

Guidance for Action

You are in a situation that should be prosperous and clear, but you feel blocked, overshadowed, or confused. The established leadership or the usual way of doing things is failing to provide illumination. Do not try to force your way through the darkness or act unilaterally; your efforts will be misplaced. Instead, be still and look for the less obvious sources of guidance. The solution lies in partnership. Seek out a colleague, a friend, or a mentor who is your equal in spirit and understanding. This is a time for collaboration, not solo heroics. By combining your wisdom and energy with a trusted peer, you can find the clarity needed to proceed. Your good fortune comes from this alliance.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship, this line suggests a period of confusion or distance. The usual warmth and clarity between you and your partner may feel "screened" or eclipsed. It might feel as if you are not on the same page, or external circumstances are creating a shadow over your connection. The path forward is not for one person to try and "fix" everything, but to meet as true equals. Acknowledge the temporary darkness and work together to find your way. This is a time for deep, honest conversation and for rediscovering the core of your partnership. If you are single, this line indicates that you may meet a significant partner during a time of personal or professional confusion. This person will not be a savior, but a true peer—an "equal master"—with whom you can build a strong, collaborative foundation.

For Career & Business

At work, you may find your project, your team, or your own contributions are being obscured. Perhaps leadership is unclear, your boss is unavailable or ineffective, or bureaucracy is screening the path to success. You have the energy and ideas (Yang line), but the situation calls for a different approach. Do not try to grandstand or push your agenda alone. Instead, look to your peers. Find a colleague who shares your vision and work ethic. By forming a strong alliance, you can pool your knowledge, support each other, and navigate the corporate "eclipse." This partnership will be the key to breaking through the obscurity and achieving success for both of you.

For Financial Matters

This line points to a confusing financial situation. Despite a seemingly abundant or bullish market, your own portfolio or financial path is unclear, and progress feels blocked. The usual indicators may be misleading, like seeing stars at noon. Making a bold, individual move right now is risky. The wise course of action is to seek counsel from a trusted peer or a financial advisor who you see as an equal partner, not an unquestionable guru. Collaborate with someone whose judgment you respect to analyze the situation. By combining insights and creating a shared strategy, you can find a secure and fortunate path through the current uncertainty. This is a time for sound partnerships over speculative solo ventures.