The JudgmentThun indicates successful progress (in its circumstances). To a small extent it will (still) be advantageous to be firm and correct.
Line 1The first SIX, divided, shows a retiring tail. The position is perilous. No movement in any direction should be made.
Line 2The second SIX, divided, shows its subject holding (his purpose) fast as if by a (thong made from the) hide of a yellow ox, which cannot be broken.
Line 3The third NINE, undivided, shows one retiring but bound,--to his distress and peril. (If he were to deal with his binders as in) nourishing a servant or concubine, it would be fortunate for him.
Line 4The fourth NINE, undivided, shows its subject retiring notwithstanding his likings. In a superior man this will lead to good fortune; a small man cannot attain to this.
Line 5The fifth NINE, undivided, shows its subject retiring in an admirable way. With firm correctness there will be good fortune.
Line 6The sixth NINE, undivided, shows its subject retiring in a noble way. It will be advantageous in every respect.
— James Legge, 1882
Text: James Legge's 1882 translation (public domain), lightly presented. Our own reading of each hexagram is being written.