Yi Jing · Chinese tarot
Retreat
Hexagram 33 of the Yi Jing · 遯 Dùn
The figure
Heaven above the Mountain: strength withdrawing to the heights, the immovable letting go. The image of retreat, of chosen withdrawal.
What this figure illuminates
Retreat lights up the intelligence of withdrawing in time: stepping back not in defeat, but to preserve your strength when the situation turns unfavorable. Knowing how to retreat is a strength, not a flight.
For a decision, the figure separates giving up from strategic withdrawal: “is this the time to retreat to keep myself, and how do I do it with dignity rather than spite?”.
The classical text
The Judgment
Retreat: withdrawing in good time brings success. In small things it still furthers to stay firm and upright.
The Image
The mountain rises, but the sky withdraws above it. Seeing this, the noble person keeps the petty at a distance — not by open dislike, but by a dignified reserve.
The Six Lines
- First line
Caught at the tail end of the retreat, last to leave. The position is dangerous — best make no move at all now.
- Second line
Bound to your purpose as by a strap of yellow oxhide — a resolve nothing can break.
- Third line
You would withdraw, but ties hold you back, to your distress. Treat these entanglements as one keeps servants — kindly but firmly — and it may still go well.
- Fourth line
You withdraw even from what you love. One of character can do this — good fortune; a small heart never can.
- Fifth line
A retreat made at just the right moment, clean and admirable. Firm and correct: good fortune.
- Sixth line
Withdrawing freely, with an untroubled and generous heart. Advantage in every respect.
Daoa's wording, written after the classical reference translations, now in the public domain: James Legge (1882) and Charles de Harlez (1889).
A question to keep
Is this the time to advance, or to withdraw to keep yourself?
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