Translated from Richard Wilhelm's German (1924)
The Judgment
The army needs persistence and a strong man.
Good fortune without fault.
The Image
Water lies within the earth: the image of the army.
So the noble one increases their numbers through generosity toward the people.
First line, six
An army must march out in good order.
If its order is poor, misfortune threatens.
Second line, nine
In the army's midst.
Good fortune. No fault.
The king bestows a threefold honor.
Third line, six
The army may be carting corpses in its wagon. Misfortune.
Fourth line, six
The army retreats. No fault.
Fifth line, six
There is game in the field. It is favorable to catch it.
Without fault.
The eldest should command the army.
The younger one carts corpses;
then persistence brings misfortune.
Top line, six
The great prince issues commands,
founds states and grants fiefs to families.
Petty people should not be employed.