Hexagram 53, Line 3

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line paints a stark picture of the dangers of reckless and premature advancement. The wild goose, a symbol of orderly progress, has advanced too quickly. It has left the safety of the shore (line 1) and the rock (line 2) to land on a dry, exposed plateau. This is a place of vulnerability, far from the nourishment of the water and separated from the flock. This over-eagerness leads to a breakdown of fundamental relationships and natural cycles. "The husband goes forth and does not return" symbolizes a rash, ambitious action that severs vital connections. He has abandoned his proper place and responsibilities, becoming lost and isolated. Consequently, "the wife conceives but does not give birth," a powerful metaphor for futility. Efforts are started but cannot come to fruition; projects fail, and potential is wasted because the essential union and support structure have been destroyed. The outcome is clearly stated as "Misfortune." The only positive counsel offered is to shift focus from advancement to defense: "It is favorable to ward off invaders." Having placed oneself in a precarious position, the only wise course of action is to stop, consolidate, and protect what one has from external threats that are now drawn to this vulnerability. It is a call to abandon foolhardy ambition and adopt a posture of defense and mutual protection with those who remain.

Guidance for Action

Your progress has been too fast and has led you into a vulnerable and isolated position. You may have become overconfident, breaking away from your support system or ignoring sound advice. This is a moment for an immediate course correction. Halt your forward momentum completely. Do not initiate new projects or expand your efforts. Instead, turn your attention to defense and consolidation. Reconnect with your allies, team, or family. The danger now is not from failing to advance, but from being attacked or undermined in your exposed state. Strengthen your defenses, secure your current position, and work collaboratively to protect against external risks and challenges.

For Love & Relationships

This line points to a serious imbalance and separation within a relationship. One partner (the "husband") has pushed forward with their own agenda, becoming emotionally or physically distant and neglectful of the partnership. This has left the other partner (the "wife") feeling abandoned and the relationship itself barren. There is a sense that the union is not "giving birth" to joy, intimacy, or a shared future. The connection is broken, leading to deep unhappiness. External threats—such as interference from others, temptations, or major life stressors—could easily destroy what's left. The only way to save the relationship is for the straying partner to stop their selfish pursuit, return to the union, and work together to rebuild trust and defend their bond as a team.

For Career & Business

In a professional context, this line serves as a strong warning against over-ambition. You may have taken on a project, promotion, or business venture that is beyond your current capabilities or resources, isolating yourself from your team and mentors. This rash move, while appearing like progress, has put you in a precarious and unsupported position. Projects initiated under these conditions are likely to fail ("conceive but not give birth"). Competitors ("invaders") may see your vulnerability and move to take advantage of it. The advice is to stop expansion immediately. Regroup with your team, seek advice, and focus on securing what you have already achieved. A strategic retreat or consolidation is not failure; it is a wise defensive maneuver to prevent a total collapse.

For Financial Matters

This line indicates a period of significant financial danger due to overly aggressive or speculative actions. You have likely overextended yourself, investing in high-risk ventures that have separated you from your financial security ("husband goes forth and does not return"). These investments will not produce the expected returns; they are barren and may result in a total loss. Your financial position is exposed and unstable. The immediate guidance is to cease all speculative activity. Shift to a highly defensive financial strategy. Liquidate risky assets if possible, pay down debt, and focus on protecting your capital. Be vigilant against scams, bad advice, or market volatility ("invaders") that could further erode your wealth.