The hexagram indicates an exceptional situation requiring extraordinary prudence, modesty and conscientiousness.  However, this does not mean empty  form and subservience but correct dignity in personal behaviour. In this situation a man must fix his eyes more closely and more directly on duty than does the ordinary man, even though this might make his behaviour appear petty to the outside world.  He is exceptionally conscientious in his actions and in bereavement emotion means more to him than ceremoniousness.  In all his personal expenditure his is simple and unpretentious.

Small things may be accomplished at this time but not great things.  The structure of the hexagram gives rise to the idea that this message is brought by a bird, the image of a soaring bird.  But a bird should not try to surpass itself and fly into the sun, it should descend to the earth where its nest is.