Hexagram Analysis

I Ching Hexagram 33 : 敦 Tun / Retreat

As the power of darkness rises, the light seeks refuge in safety, protected from the encroaching shadows. This is not a choice made by humans, but rather a natural law that dictates the need for withdrawal in order to preserve one's strength. It is the proper course of action, the way to conserve energy and avoid exhaustion. This hexagram is associated with the sixth month of the calendar, a time when the forces of winter begin to make their presence known.

The Judgment

Withdraw. Achievement. Consistent effort leads to progress in the little things.

The current circumstances are favorable for the opposing forces to make progress. In this situation, retreating is the wise decision, but it should not be mistaken for fleeing. Fleeing is an act of self-preservation at any cost, whereas retreating is a display of strength. We must be cautious not to miss the opportune moment when we hold the upper hand. This way, we can read the signs of the times before it's too late and plan for a temporary retreat instead of being forced into a perilous struggle. By doing so, we don't simply abandon the battleground to the adversary; we make it arduous for them to advance by persistently resisting their every move. This way, we prepare for a counter-attack while retreating. It's not easy to comprehend the principles of a constructive retreat, but it's crucial to understand the significance of such a time.

The Image

Retreat is symbolized by a mountain under the sky. Therefore, a wise person maintains a distance from others, not with anger but with caution.

As the mountain ascends towards the heavens, it eventually reaches its limit. Meanwhile, the heavens continue to recede into the distance, remaining unattainable. This serves as a metaphor for how a person of higher standing should behave towards someone of lower status. Rather than harboring hatred, which only creates a subjective attachment to the object of hatred, the superior individual retreats into their own thoughts as the inferior one approaches. The superior person displays strength, akin to the heavens, by maintaining their composure and bringing the inferior person to a halt, like a mountain, through their dignified reserve.