Hexagram 54, Line 6

The Line Text

Interpretation

COMMENTARY_TEXT_EN: The top Six shows no substance because she is holding an empty basket.

Guidance for Action

INTERPRETATION: This top line represents the culmination and ultimate failure of the theme of Hexagram 54. The situation has reached its desolate conclusion. The imagery is stark and deeply inauspicious, depicting a sacred ritual—an offering—that is utterly devoid of substance and life. The maiden, now at the end of her journey, performs her ceremonial duty by presenting a basket, but it is empty. This signifies that her efforts, her role, and the entire situation have produced nothing of value, no fruitfulness, no fulfillment. The man's corresponding action, the sacrificial stabbing of a sheep, is equally barren; no blood flows, indicating a lack of life force, vitality, and true spirit. The ritual is a hollow pantomime. This line points to a profound disillusionment. All the hopes, ambitions, and efforts associated with this subordinate or improper union have come to nothing. The outward forms are maintained, but the inner reality is empty, sterile, and lifeless. It is a relationship, a project, or a commitment that is fundamentally barren. The I Ching's judgment is unequivocal: "Nothing is advantageous." There is no benefit to be found here, no way to salvage the situation, and no point in continuing the empty gestures. It is the final, stark realization of futility.

For Love & Relationships

GUIDANCE: Your current path or involvement has reached a point of absolute futility. You are going through the motions, but there is no substance, life, or potential for a positive outcome. It is crucial to see this situation for what it is: a hollow shell. Do not invest any more of your energy, emotions, or resources. Continuing to act as if there is hope will only deepen your disappointment. This is not a time to try harder or to fix things; the problem is fundamental and cannot be repaired. The most sensible course of action is to withdraw completely. Acknowledge the emptiness and disengage. Cut your losses and turn away from this barren endeavor to preserve your own vitality for something more meaningful.

For Career & Business

LOVE: This line is a grave omen for a relationship. It signifies a union that is emotionally and spiritually dead. While the outward form of the relationship may persist—you may still be a "couple," live together, or go through the motions of partnership—the love, connection, intimacy, and mutual support are gone. It has become an empty ritual. One or both partners may be making "sacrifices," but these efforts are meaningless because the lifeblood of the relationship has drained away. Staying together is pointless and will only lead to further emptiness. This line strongly advises that it is time to face the painful truth and end the connection. There is no fruit to be harvested here.

For Financial Matters

CAREER: In a career context, this line points to a job, project, or business venture that is all form and no substance. You may have a title, an office, and a list of duties, but your work is meaningless and produces no real results. You are "holding an empty basket." Projects may look good on paper but lack a solid foundation or market viability. Business partnerships may involve grand gestures and promises, but they are hollow and will not lead to profit or success. You are engaging in futile activities. The advice is to stop wasting your talent and energy. It is time to seek a new position, pivot the business, or abandon the project entirely before you invest any more of yourself in it.