Hexagram 38, Line 1

The Line Text

Interpretation

This first line marks the beginning of a period of opposition and misunderstanding. The initial feeling is one of relief ("regret disappears"), suggesting that a potential mistake or a source of anxiety has just been averted. However, this is immediately followed by a loss: "the horse is lost." The horse symbolizes strength, progress, and connection to like-minded companions. Its loss signifies a temporary separation from an ally, a setback in plans, or a misunderstanding that has caused a rift. The core advice is explicit: "do not pursue it." Any attempt to force a reunion or chase after what is lost will only deepen the opposition and lead to further trouble. The promise is that if you can practice restraint, what was lost "will return of its own accord." The final part, "When one sees disagreeable people, there is no blame," is key. The "disagreeable person" (or "evil person," *e ren*) is not necessarily a villain but rather someone who embodies the opposition—someone with whom you are fundamentally at odds. Encountering such a person is a natural part of this situation. The way to remain "without blame" is to not mistake difference for malice and to avoid escalating the conflict. By calmly accepting the existence of this opposition without reacting hostilely, you prevent the situation from deteriorating.

Guidance for Action

You are at the very beginning of a situation defined by misunderstanding or crossed purposes. You may have just lost something or someone important—a friend, an opportunity, a key resource. Your natural impulse may be to chase after it, to fix it immediately, to force a resolution. The I Ching's guidance is to do the opposite. Practice patience and restraint. Let go. Trust that if the connection is genuine or the opportunity is right, it will find its way back to you in its own time. During this time, you will likely encounter people who seem difficult or antagonistic. Do not judge them harshly or engage in conflict. Simply see the situation for what it is—a temporary state of opposition—and carry on with integrity. Your task is not to win a fight, but to avoid making one.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship, this line indicates an initial falling out or a significant misunderstanding. One partner has withdrawn or created distance (the "lost horse"). Your instinct might be to pursue them, demanding to talk, sending messages, or trying to force a reconciliation. This line strongly advises against that. Give your partner space. Chasing them now will only push them further away. The assurance is that if the foundation of the relationship is sound, they will come back when they are ready ("it will return of its own accord"). The "disagreeable person" might be your partner in their current state of opposition, or perhaps even a friend or family member whose influence is causing friction. The way to be "without blame" is to not vilify them, but to remain calm and allow things to cool down naturally.

For Career & Business

A project has hit a snag, a deal has fallen through, or a key colleague or client has become uncooperative. This is the "lost horse." Do not try to force the issue. Pushing the uncooperative colleague will only create resentment, and desperately trying to salvage the lost deal may damage your reputation. Step back and allow the situation to settle. Focus on other tasks. The commentary's wisdom about "seeing disagreeable people" applies to competitors or difficult coworkers. Acknowledge their different perspective or conflicting goals without taking it personally or escalating the tension. By maintaining your professionalism and not reacting emotionally, you avoid blame and may find that the lost opportunity or cooperative spirit returns later, perhaps in a different form.

For Financial Matters

This line points to a recent and unexpected financial loss. Perhaps an investment has soured, a payment you were expecting has not arrived, or a venture has failed. This is the "lost horse." The critical advice is not to throw good money after bad. Do not panic and make rash decisions to recoup the loss. Do not chase a debtor in a way that is aggressive or desperate. Let the situation be for now. The promise that "it will return of its own accord" suggests that market conditions may improve, or the financial situation may correct itself if you are patient. The "disagreeable person" could be a debtor or a business partner involved in the loss. Dealing with them calmly and methodically, rather than with anger, is the way to avoid further complications and remain "without blame."