Jian, six in the fourth placeHexagram 53, line 4 · Jian (Gradual Progress) · changing to 33
The line
In plain wordsThe wild goose has flown into the trees, though it was never made to grip a branch. Perhaps it can find a flat, level bough, and then it can settle. No blame.
The Image commentary on this line
或得其桷，順以巽也。
"Perhaps it finds a flat branch": it is compliant and gentle.
The small Image commentary is the earliest explanation of the line texts. It usually explains a line from its position: where it stands, whether it holds the center, and which line answers it.
Verdict
平Neutral. Neither good nor bad. Do your part, correct mistakes, and nothing will go wrong.
How to read good fortune, misfortune, regret, humiliation and no blame →
Asking about work, love or money
- Work
- You have landed in a position that doesn't really suit you, like a water bird in a tree, and everything feels awkward. Lower yourself, go along with your surroundings, and find a place where you can stand firm for now; then you won't go wrong.
- Love
- In love you find yourself in an unfamiliar place, and whatever you do feels a little awkward. Don't fight it. Soften a bit, follow the other person's pace, and find a way of being together that suits you both; then things settle.
- Money
- The way you are earning now is unfamiliar to you, and you can't get a firm grip on anything. Don't force it. Lower your expectations and settle first on a steady source of income that keeps your life going; there is no blame in that.
This is how to read it when this is the only changing line. With several changing lines, first see which text governs; for the hexagram as a whole, see Jian.
Line position
A yin line in a yin place: it is in its proper place. Its partner is the first line, which is also yin, so there is no answer from it.
Fourth place: next to the ruler, a place of caution. Serve those above with care.
When you get this line
If this is the only changing line in your cast (three inscribed sides, old yin), this line is your answer. The primary hexagram is Jian (Gradual Progress); when this line changes it becomes Dun (Retreat): hexagram 53 changing to 33.
Which text to read with several changing lines →
Resulting hexagram · Dun (Retreat)
It is time to withdraw. Withdraw in time and you will be fine.