33 · Retreat (DÙN)
Retreat is a timely choice, not a failure of courage. When conditions turn, stepping back can preserve integrity and leave room for a wiser next move.
The judgment
Retreat: passage. In small matters, steadfastness is favourable.
When pushing ahead would entangle you, an orderly withdrawal can open a way through. Keep to what is right within the limits of the moment.
Original Chinese text
遯：亨。小利貞。
The six lines
- 初六 · Line 1 — At the tail of retreat, there is danger; do not set out toward any destination.
Original Chinese
遯尾，厲，勿用有攸往。
- 六二 · Line 2 — Held with yellow ox-hide leather; none can loosen it.
Original Chinese
執之用黃牛之革，莫之勝說。
- 九三 · Line 3 — Retreat tied down: illness and danger; caring for household dependents is auspicious.
Original Chinese
系遯，有疾厲，畜臣妾吉。
- 九四 · Line 4 — A willingly chosen retreat is auspicious for the cultivated person; not so for the petty person.
Original Chinese
好遯君子吉，小人否。
- 九五 · Line 5 — A commendable retreat; steadfastness is auspicious.
Original Chinese
嘉遯，貞吉。
- 上九 · Line 6 — An ample, unencumbered retreat; nothing is unfavourable.
Original Chinese
肥遯，无不利。