Hexagram 39, Line 6

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line represents the culmination of the period of Obstruction. You have reached the very peak of the difficulty, a point where forging ahead is no longer possible or wise. The path forward is completely blocked. However, this is not a message of despair but one of profound strategic wisdom. The struggle is over. Instead of continuing a futile outward push, the correct and auspicious action is to turn back. This "coming back" is not failure; it is a triumphant return to a position of strength, safety, and substance. It signifies turning inward to one's core values, or returning to join a supportive community or leader. This retreat leads to a "great" (碩) and bountiful outcome. The ultimate key to success lies in seeking out and aligning with a "great person"—a wise mentor, a virtuous leader, or a capable authority figure (represented by the strong line in the fifth place). By humbly seeking their guidance and following their noble example, you transcend the obstruction and enter a phase of good fortune and significant achievement.

Guidance for Action

Stop pushing against the obstacle. Your current efforts are exhausted, and continuing in the same direction will only deepen the predicament. Acknowledge that this path is a dead end. The most powerful action you can take now is a strategic retreat. Pull back, regroup, and turn your attention inward to reassess your goals and values. This is a time for humility, not for prideful persistence. Identify a wise and capable person in your life—a mentor, expert, or leader you respect. Seek their counsel and be prepared to follow their guidance. By aligning yourself with their strength and wisdom, you will not only navigate out of the current difficulty but also position yourself for a much greater and more meaningful success.

For Love & Relationships

If you are in a relationship filled with struggle and conflict, continuing to force the issue will only lead to more pain and obstruction. It is time to stop pushing. The wise and fortunate path is to "come back." This may mean taking a significant step back to give each other space, ceasing all attempts to change your partner, or even ending a relationship that is fundamentally blocked. The "greatness" that follows is the peace, self-respect, and clarity you will gain. It is highly "favorable to see the great person." This urges you to seek guidance from a wise friend, a family elder, or a relationship counselor. It can also mean turning your focus toward your own inner well-being or opening yourself up to a new relationship with someone who embodies the noble and supportive qualities you truly need.

For Career & Business

You have hit a major roadblock in your career or a specific project. Pushing forward with your current strategy is futile and will lead to failure. It is time to declare the old approach finished. The best move now is a strategic withdrawal. This could mean shelving the project, pivoting your business model entirely, or even leaving a dead-end job. This is not an admission of defeat but a wise executive decision. This "coming back" will lead to "greatness" by allowing you to return to your core strengths or to discover a new, more promising opportunity. It is essential to "see the great person." Seek out a seasoned mentor, a successful senior colleague, or an industry leader. By following their guidance and perhaps joining their team or venture, you will overcome the current impasse and achieve significant professional success.

For Financial Matters

Your current investment strategy or financial venture is facing insurmountable obstacles and is likely failing. To continue pouring money and energy into it ("going forward") is to guarantee further losses. The most auspicious action is to "come back." This means you must cut your losses, liquidate the failing asset, and withdraw from this course of action. While it may feel like a setback, this retreat is the very move that leads to "greatness"—the preservation of your capital and the opening for a much better future. It is "favorable to see the great person." This is a clear directive to stop trying to manage this difficult situation alone. Consult a trusted and expert financial advisor, a successful investor, or a wealth manager. Align your actions with their proven, professional guidance to secure your finances and build true wealth.