Hexagram 63, Line 2

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line appears within the hexagram of "After Completion," a time of perfect order and balance. However, even in perfection, small disruptions can occur. The image is of a woman losing her carriage screen (or a hair ornament, depending on the translation)—an item of value that provides cover, modesty, and status. This represents a minor, unexpected loss, a setback, or a temporary loss of face within a situation that is otherwise stable and successful. The crucial advice is "Do not pursue it." A frantic or forceful attempt to immediately recover what was lost would be an overreaction. It would disturb the delicate harmony of the "completed" state and potentially create a larger problem. The loss is not catastrophic. The commentary clarifies why patience is the correct course: the situation is governed by the "central path." This means you are fundamentally in a correct and balanced position. By remaining calm, centered, and true to your principles (staying on the central path), you allow the natural order to restore itself. The "seven days" is symbolic, representing a natural cycle of time. It promises that what was lost will return or be resolved on its own, without forceful intervention, if you simply wait and trust the process.

Guidance for Action

You are currently in a situation that is largely positive and well-ordered, but you have experienced a small, frustrating setback or loss. It might be a missed opportunity, a minor mistake, a misunderstanding, or a loss of a small advantage. Your immediate impulse might be to panic and take forceful action to fix it. This line strongly advises against that. Do not chase after what is lost. Do not try to force a resolution. Instead, practice patient non-action. Trust that your overall position is strong and stable. Maintain your composure, integrity, and focus on your core principles—this is your "central path." Allow time to work its magic. The issue will resolve itself naturally, and what was lost will be restored or replaced in due course. Your poise in the face of this minor disturbance is your greatest strength right now.

For Love & Relationships

In your relationship, a minor conflict or misunderstanding has occurred. Perhaps a thoughtless word was said, an important date was forgotten, or there's a temporary feeling of distance. This is the "lost carriage screen." The temptation is to press the issue, demand an immediate apology, or force a conversation to "fix" things right away. This line counsels you to do the opposite. Do not pursue the issue aggressively. Give your partner and the relationship some space to breathe. Trust in the fundamental strength and love that you share (the "central path"). By remaining calm and loving, without trying to force a resolution, the issue will fade in importance, and harmony will be restored naturally, often within a short period.

For Career & Business

At work, you've encountered a small but annoying setback. Perhaps a colleague received credit for your work, a minor project detail went wrong, or you missed out on a small opportunity. While frustrating, this does not threaten your overall career standing. Avoid the urge to send angry emails, complain to management, or make a dramatic effort to correct the injustice immediately ("chasing" it). Instead, remain professional and continue to perform your duties with excellence and integrity. This is your "central path." By staying centered and not overreacting, your true value will become apparent over time, and the situation will self-correct. The minor loss will either be rectified or become irrelevant.

For Financial Matters

You may have experienced a small financial loss—a dip in an investment, an unexpected expense, or a miscalculation in your budget. It feels like a setback, and you might be tempted to make a rash decision, like panic-selling a stock or drastically altering your long-term financial strategy. This line is a clear warning against such impulsive actions. Do not "chase" the loss by trying to make it back quickly with a risky move. Your overall financial plan is sound (the "central path"). Stick to it. Trust your strategy and allow the market or your situation to rebalance itself over time. The small loss will be recovered or absorbed without derailing your long-term goals, provided you remain patient and disciplined.