Translated from Richard Wilhelm's German (1924)
The Judgment
Retreat. Success.
In small matters, persistence is favorable.
The Image
Beneath heaven stands the mountain:
the image of retreat.
So the noble one keeps the petty person at a distance,
not in anger, but with composure.
First line, six
At the tail of the retreat: that is dangerous.
One must not seek to undertake anything.
Second line, six
One holds the other tight with the hide of a yellow ox.
Nobody can wrench them free.
Third line, nine
A retreat held back is painful and dangerous.
To keep people as servants and maids brings good fortune.
Fourth line, nine
Voluntary retreat brings good fortune to the noble one,
and downfall to the petty person.
Fifth line, nine
Friendly retreat. Persistence brings good fortune.
Top line, nine
Cheerful retreat. Everything is favorable.