Hexagram 6, Line 3

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line describes a precarious position within a conflict. Being a strong (yang) line in a strong position, there is a natural inclination to push forward and assert oneself. However, you are situated at the very top of the lower trigram of 'Danger' (Kan), poised to enter the upper trigram of 'Heaven' (Qian). This means any forward movement is fraught with peril and risks escalating the conflict significantly. The counsel is therefore one of extreme caution and strategic retreat. "Living on past merits" means you should not seek new gains, recognition, or advantages. Instead, rely on your existing reputation, resources, and the goodwill you have already earned. To stubbornly insist on your own way or try to prove you are right ("perseverance is dangerous") will only lead to trouble. The ultimate "good fortune" mentioned is not a victory, but the successful avoidance of disaster. The final warning, "If one should engage in the king's service, there will be no accomplishment," advises against taking on ambitious, high-profile tasks. Such efforts will not be rewarded and will only draw you deeper into the conflict. Your security lies in humility and maintaining a low profile.

Guidance for Action

Your current situation requires you to lay low and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Do not initiate new projects, seek a promotion, or enter into any new ventures. Your power lies in what you have already built, not in what you might gain. Consolidate your position and rely on your past successes and established reputation. Resist the urge to prove a point or win an argument, as this will only lead to greater danger. The wisest course of action is to perform your current duties quietly and diligently, without seeking credit or acclaim. By not striving, you will avoid entanglement and preserve your security. Let others take the lead for now; your time for action will come later.

For Love & Relationships

In your relationship, a conflict has reached a point where pushing your agenda will cause significant damage. This line advises you to stop trying to "win" the argument or force your partner to see things your way. "Living on past merits" means you should lean on the history, love, and goodwill you have already established together. Remind yourself of the good times and the foundation of your bond. Trying to stubbornly hold your ground will be dangerous for the future of the relationship. The best outcome ("good fortune") will be achieved by letting the issue go, showing humility, and preserving the peace. This is not the time for grand romantic gestures or trying to force the relationship to a new level; it is a time for quiet maintenance and preserving the connection you have.

For Career & Business

This is a strong warning against ambition at work. Do not vie for a promotion, take on a high-profile project, or challenge your superiors. Your best strategy is to "live on your past merits"—that is, to do your current job competently and rely on your established reputation for being a solid, reliable employee. Trying to make a name for yourself or engage in office politics ("engage in the king's service") will backfire and lead to failure ("no accomplishment"). You may even become a target in a larger power struggle. Keep your head down, do your work well, and avoid any action that could be perceived as a challenge to the existing order. Your security and stability depend on being inconspicuous right now.

For Financial Matters

This is a time for extreme financial conservatism. Do not chase new, speculative investments or engage in any high-risk financial ventures, no matter how promising they seem. "Living on past merits" is a clear instruction to subsist on your current income and rely on your existing savings and safe investments. Trying to force a gain in a volatile market or stubbornly holding onto a losing position will lead to danger and potential loss. The "good fortune" promised is not a windfall, but the preservation of your capital. Avoid any grand financial schemes or opportunities that involve public recognition. Stick to what you know and what is proven. The goal now is security, not growth.