Hexagram 23, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line represents a moment of extreme and immediate danger. The process of disintegration, symbolized by the hexagram "Splitting Apart," has advanced critically. The "bed" is a symbol of our foundation, our security, and our place of rest. In the preceding lines, the erosion began at the legs and the frame. Now, in the fourth line, the decay has reached the very surface one lies upon—the "skin" of the bed. The problem is no longer external or distant; it has breached all defenses and is now a direct, personal threat. The buffer between you and disaster has been completely stripped away. The judgment "Misfortune" (凶) is stark and unambiguous. This is not a time for hope or for trying to repair the situation. The structure is failing, and its collapse is imminent and will directly harm you.

Guidance for Action

The message of this line is urgent: you must evacuate. Do not try to save the bed; get off it. This is a time for immediate self-preservation. You must recognize that the structure (a situation, a relationship, a project) you have been relying on is now fundamentally unsound and dangerous. Clinging to it out of loyalty, hope, or stubbornness will lead to certain harm. The wisest course of action is to abandon the failing situation completely and with haste. Cut your ties, withdraw your energy, and move to a position of safety. This is not about fighting or resisting; it is about a swift and decisive retreat to protect yourself from imminent collapse.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship, this line indicates that the foundation of trust, security, and intimacy has been completely eroded. The problems are no longer minor issues to be worked on; they have eaten away at the very core of the connection. You are now personally and directly experiencing the pain and damage. The relationship in its current form has become toxic and harmful to your well-being. Staying is not an option for a healthy outcome. The guidance is to recognize the severity of the situation and end the relationship to prevent further emotional and psychological harm. This is a painful moment of realizing that the structure you once rested upon can no longer support you.

For Career & Business

This line points to a critical and dangerous situation in your professional life. The company you work for, your department, or a major project is on the verge of collapse. The problems are no longer rumors or distant concerns; they are now directly impacting your position, your security, and your ability to function. This could manifest as imminent layoffs, the cancellation of a key project you are on, or a discovery of deep-seated corruption or incompetence that makes your position untenable. Do not try to be a hero and save the sinking ship. Your immediate priority is to secure your own professional safety. Update your resume, activate your network, and find an exit strategy as quickly as possible.

For Financial Matters

For financial matters, this line is a severe warning. An investment or financial strategy you have relied on is about to suffer a catastrophic failure. The value has eroded past all support levels, and the fundamental reasons for the investment are no longer valid. The danger of a total loss is not just a possibility; it is imminent. Hope for a rebound is a dangerous illusion. The guidance is unequivocal: sell and cut your losses immediately. Do not hesitate. To hold on is to invite further, more devastating financial harm. Liquidate the failing asset and move your capital to a safe haven, even if it means accepting a significant loss now. Preserving what is left is the only wise move.