Hexagram 15 · Line 4
Modesty — 四九
Qian Humility · Si Jiu
The Line
Nothing that would not further modesty in movement.
Interpretation
Everything has its measure. Even modesty in conduct can be overdone. Here it is in place, since the situation between a meritorious assistant below and a kind ruler above brings very great responsibility with it. The trust of the one above must not be abused; the merits of the one below must not be concealed. There are, to be sure, officials who do not stand forth. They cover themselves with the letter of the regulations; they decline all responsibility; they take payment without accomplishing anything corresponding; they bear titles to which no reality gives significance. The modesty here mentioned is the opposite. Modesty in such a position shows itself precisely in being engaged with interest in the work.