7. The Army (Shih)
Like water contained in the earth. Represents discipline, organization, and the need for strong leadership.
Changing Lines
- Line 1: An army must set forth in proper order. If the order is not good, misfortune threatens.
- Line 2: In the midst of the army. Good fortune. No blame. The king bestows a triple decoration.
- Line 3: Perchance the army carries corpses in the wagon. Misfortune.
- Line 4: The army retreats. No blame.
- Line 5: There is game in the field. It furthers one to catch it. Without blame. Let the eldest lead the army. The younger carries corpses; then perseverance brings misfortune.
- Line 6: The great prince issues commands, founds states, vests families with fiefs. Inferior people should not be employed.