The Army
"Discipline and leadership are required. The army must be directed by a strong leader."
The Judgment
The Army. The army needs perseverance and a strong man. Good fortune without blame.
Original Text
贞，丈人吉，无咎。
The Image
In the middle of the earth is water: The image of the Army. Thus the superior man increases his masses by benevolence toward the people.
Original Text
地中有水，师；君子以容民畜众。
The Lines
Six at the Beginning初六
"An army must set forth in good order. If not, misfortune."
Discipline is essential from the beginning. Without it, failure is certain.
Original: 师出以律，否藏凶。
Nine at the Place 2九二
"In the midst of the army. Good fortune. No blame. The king bestows a triple decoration."
A strong leader is in the center. Success brings recognition.
Original: 在师中，吉，无咎，王三锡命。
Six at the Place 3六三
"The army carries corpses in the wagon. Misfortune."
Incompetent leadership leads to defeat and loss.
Original: 师或舆尸，凶。
Six at the Place 4六四
"The army retreats. No blame."
Retreating to a safe position is sometimes the wisest strategy.
Original: 师左次，无咎。
Six at the Place 5六五
"There is game in the field. It furthers one to catch it. No blame. Let the eldest lead the army. The younger transports corpses. Then perseverance brings misfortune."
Only the most experienced should lead. Divide command leads to disaster.
Original: 田有禽，利执言，无咎。长子帅师，弟子舆尸，贞凶。
Six at the Top上六
"The great prince issues commands, founds states, vests families with fiefs. Inferior people should not be employed."
Reward merit, but do not give power to those who are unworthy.
Original: 大君有命，开国承家，小人勿用。