Hexagram 48, Line 3

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line describes a situation of frustrating, untapped potential. The well has been dredged and cleaned; its water is pure and life-giving. All the necessary preparation has been done. Yet, for some reason, no one comes to draw from it. This represents a person whose talents are fully developed, an idea that is perfectly formed, or a resource that is ready for use, but which remains unrecognized and unused. The feeling associated with this is "sorrow of the heart" (心惻) – not a bitter resentment, but a deep sadness over wasted potential. The solution lies not in further work on the well itself, but in gaining the attention of a higher, discerning authority—the "enlightened king." When leadership or a key decision-maker recognizes the value that is present, they can put it to use, and the benefits will then flow to everyone involved. This line highlights the critical link between inherent value and external recognition.

Guidance for Action

Your skills, efforts, or resources are currently in excellent condition, but they are being overlooked. The work on your end is complete; the issue is not with your quality but with a lack of recognition or opportunity. Do not become bitter or despairing. The sorrow you feel is a valid acknowledgment of this frustrating gap. Instead of trying to "improve" what is already good, your focus should now shift to communication and visibility. You must find a way to bring your value to the attention of those in a position to use it—a manager, a leader, a client, or a benefactor. Present your case clearly and confidently. Your readiness is your strength. The goal is to connect with an "enlightened" party who can see your worth and unlock its potential for the benefit of all.

For Love & Relationships

In the context of love, this line points to a person who is emotionally ready and available for a deep, nourishing relationship. You have done the inner work, cleared away past baggage ("cleaned the well"), and have a great deal of love and support to offer. However, you may find yourself single, or in a relationship where your partner is not emotionally available or fails to appreciate the depth of what you offer. This creates a sense of sadness and loneliness—the feeling of having a heart full of love with nowhere for it to go. The guidance here is not to change who you are or to "muddy your waters" to seem more accessible. Instead, remain true to your prepared self and seek a partner (the "enlightened king") who has the wisdom and maturity to recognize, receive, and reciprocate the love you are ready to give. If you are in a partnership, a sincere conversation may be needed to help your partner see the unused potential for connection.

For Career & Business

This line is a classic depiction of being skilled and competent but underutilized at work. You may have completed a project that is now sitting on a shelf, possess skills that your current role doesn't require, or have valuable ideas that management is ignoring. You have "cleaned the well," but no one is "drinking" from it. This is naturally a source of professional frustration and demotivation. The problem isn't your performance; it's your visibility and the receptiveness of leadership. Your task is to find the "enlightened king"—a manager, director, or influential colleague who can see the value in your contribution. Proactively seek opportunities to demonstrate your worth to decision-makers. This may involve scheduling a presentation, sending a well-crafted memo, or networking with other departments. If the leadership within your current environment remains blind to your potential, it may be a sign that your "well" belongs to a different "kingdom."

For Financial Matters

This line suggests you have a valuable asset, a solid financial plan, or a well-researched investment opportunity that is currently sitting idle. The groundwork has been laid, the due diligence is done—the "well is clean." However, the resource is not being activated, and therefore is not generating returns. This could be capital sitting in a low-yield account when it could be invested, or a valuable property that isn't being leased or sold. The "sorrow" is the opportunity cost you are incurring. The path forward requires an act of "enlightened" authority. This might mean finally making the decision to invest, seeking the advice of a trusted financial advisor (the "king") to confirm your strategy, or securing a loan or partner to activate the asset. The potential for a positive outcome that benefits all stakeholders ("all may share in the good fortune") is high, but it requires a decisive action to start drawing from the well.