Retreat brings success because by retreating, one then succeeds. The firm is in the proper place and is answered, moving in step with the time. It is slightly favorable to persevere because what is small gradually grows. The meaning of the time of Retreat is truly great.
象 · Xiang
Image
A mountain under Heaven: Retreat. The Noble One keeps away from small people, not in hatred, yet with reserve and firmness.
六爻 · Six Lines
Lines
Line 06
Top Nine
Ample retreat. Nothing is unfavorable.
Commentary
Ample retreat means there is nothing doubtful.
Line 05
Nine in the Fifth
Admirable retreat. Perseverance brings Good fortune.
Commentary
Admirable retreat with perseverance and good fortune means setting the will right.
Line 04
Nine in the Fourth
Willing retreat. The Noble One: Good fortune. The small person: blocked.
Commentary
For the Noble One, willing retreat is good fortune; for the small person, it is blockage.
Line 03
Nine in the Third
Entangled retreat. There is illness and danger. Keeping servants and concubines brings Good fortune.
Commentary
The danger of entangled retreat means illness and weariness. Keeping servants and concubines brings good fortune because great matters cannot be undertaken.
Line 02
Six in the Second
Hold it fast with yellow oxhide. No one can loosen it.
Commentary
Holding with yellow oxhide means making the will firm.
Line 01
Initial Six
Retreat at the tail. Danger. Do not go anywhere with this.
Commentary
The danger of retreat at the tail means that if one does not go, what disaster can there be?