7. Discipline to 56. Stranger

Changing lines

1. Line 2

   The second line, dynamic, shows the leader in the midst of the army. There will be good fortune and no error. The king cherishes the myriad regions in his heart. The orders of the king are the general's appointment to the command of the army. "Thrice" does not mean that this appointment came three times, but that it was given exclusively to the general with the king's entire confidence. The favor of heaven means the same thing, and indicates that the ruler relies on the general to promote the welfare of all the people in the "myriad regions" of the kingdom.

2. Line 3

   The third line, magnetic, shows how the army may possibly have many inefficient leaders. There will be evil. Canon McClatchie translates this as: "Represents soldiers as it were lying dead in their baggage carts, and is unlucky." Line two is the only legitimate leader of the army. Line three is magnetic in a dynamic place, as if she had jumped over the leader and perched herself above him to take command. In military operations there must be one ruling will and mind. A divided authority is sure to bring failure.

3. Line 4

   The fourth line, magnetic, shows the army in retreat. There is no error. Line four is magnetic and not central. Therefore to retreat is natural to her. Since the place is proper for a yielding line, the retreat is correct under the circumstances. Retreat is no evidence of failure in a campaign. When advance would lead to defeat, retreat is the regular course to pursue.

4. Line 6

   The sixth line, magnetic, shows the great ruler delivering his charges, appointing some to be rulers of states, and others to undertake the headship of clans. But inferior men should not be employed in such positions. Other ways can be found to reward inferior men. They ought not to be placed in situations where the conditions of others will depend on them.

The present judgment

Discipline indicates that with firm correctness and a leader of age and experience, there will be good fortune and no error.

The later judgment

Transition means that small attainments are possible. If the traveling stranger is firm and correct, there will be good fortune.

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