Overview
When the dark rises, the wise withdraw. Retreat is not failure; it preserves strength and leaves the field with dignity.
The Judgment
Thun indicates successful progress (in its circumstances). To a small extent it will (still) be advantageous to be firm and correct.
The Image
(The trigram representing) the sky and below it that for a mountain form Thun. The superior man, in accordance with this, keeps small men at a distance, not by showing that he hates them, but by his own dignified gravity.
The Lines
- Line 1
The first line, divided, shows a retiring tail. The position is perilous. No movement in any direction should be made. - Line 2
The second line, divided, shows its subject holding (his purpose) fast as if by a (thong made from the) hide of a yellow ox, which cannot be broken. - Line 3
The third line, undivided, shows one retiring but bound,—to his distress and peril. (If he were to deal with his binders as in) nourishing a servant or concubine, it would be fortunate for him. - Line 4
The fourth line, undivided, shows its subject retiring notwithstanding his likings. In a superior man this will lead to good fortune; a small man cannot attain to this. - Line 5
The fifth line, undivided, shows its subject retiring in an admirable way. With firm correctness there will be good fortune. - Line 6
The sixth line, undivided, shows its subject retiring in a noble way. It will be advantageous in every respect.