Hexagram 7 of 64
師
The Army
Shī
Upper Trigram
坤
Earth
Receptive, Yielding
Ground · Mother
Lower Trigram
坎
Water
Abysmal, Dangerous
Water · Middle Son
The Judgment
The Army needs perseverance and a strong person. Good fortune without blame.
Power gathered and organized by a capable, disciplined leader can move mountains. The army is the people's collective force; it must be led with justice and purpose, or it becomes destructive.
The Image
In the middle of the earth is water — the image of the Army. Thus the superior person increases their masses by generosity toward the people.
Just as underground water nourishes the earth from within, a leader cultivates loyalty not through command alone but through genuine care for those they lead.
The Six Lines
Line 1
An army must set forth in proper order. If the order is not good, misfortune threatens.
Right beginnings and clear structure are essential. Disorder at the start makes the entire enterprise vulnerable.
Line 2
In the middle of the army. Good fortune. No blame. The king bestows a triple decoration.
The capable commander in the heart of their force, trusted by those above and below, receives deserved recognition.
Line 3
Perchance the army carries corpses in the wagon. Misfortune.
Entrusting command to an unworthy person, or carrying the dead weight of failed approaches, leads to disaster.
Line 4
The army retreats. No blame.
A strategic withdrawal in the face of a stronger force is correct judgment, not failure.
Line 5
There is game in the field. It furthers to catch it. Without blame. Let the eldest lead the army. The younger transports corpses. Perseverance brings misfortune.
There is a just cause to pursue. Let the experienced lead; do not let the young and untested hold command in serious matters.
Line 6
The great prince issues commands, founds states, vests families with fiefs. Inferior people should not be employed.
After victory, wise governance continues the work. Reward the capable and exclude the small-minded from positions of influence.
For contemplation and self-reflection only. Not a substitute for professional advice.