Original Line Text:
“食旧德，贞厉，终吉。或从王事，无成”
Translation:
“Inherit ancestral virtue; perseverance entails peril, yet ends in auspice. If engaged in royal affairs, claim no personal glory.”
I. Interpretation of the Line
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“Inherit ancestral virtue” (食旧德)
Refers to relying on the moral and material heritage passed down by ancestors. It emphasizes adherence to tradition and avoiding reckless pursuit of new gains. “Virtue” here encompasses both ethical legacy and tangible resources (e.g., family wealth, social connections). -
“Perseverance entails peril, yet ends in auspice” (贞厉，终吉)
- Perseverance (贞): Steadfast adherence to righteous conduct and cautious action.
- Peril (厉): Symbolizes danger due to the yin line occupying a yang position (third line), implying instability or overextension.
- Auspice (终吉): Resolving crises by staying humble and grounded.
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“If engaged in royal affairs, claim no personal glory” (或从王事，无成)
- Royal affairs (王事): Participating in governance or serving authority figures.
- Claim no glory (无成): Avoid self-promotion; prioritize collective success over personal accolades to ensure long-term safety.
II. Commentary from the Image Tradition
The Image states: “Inherit ancestral virtue—following superiors brings auspiciousness.”
- “Following superiors” (从上): Align with authority (e.g., rulers, leaders) to prevent conflict.
- As a yin line in a yang position (third line), it resides at the top of the lower trigram, requiring humility and flexibility to navigate risks using inherited wisdom.
III. Life Lessons
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Maintain your position
In disputes, restrain greed and stabilize situations using existing resources (e.g., family support, institutional frameworks) instead of provoking new conflicts. -
Claim no merit for achievements
Remain humble even when contributing significantly. Historical examples include Feng Yi of the Eastern Han Dynasty, known as the “Tree General,” who avoided boasting about his military successes. -
Exercise caution at turning points
The third line marks the end of the lower trigram, symbolizing a critical juncture. Avoid rash actions; resolve tensions through subtlety and adaptability.
IV. Connection to the Hexagram’s Theme
The Song hexagram advocates “resolving disputes through harmony.” As a yin line, the third line contrasts with the aggressive outcome of the ninth line (“stripped of honors thrice in a day”). It embodies the Yijing philosophy of using softness to neutralize conflict, emphasizing humility and restraint as keys to lasting peace.