Detailed Analysis of Dun Hexagram
Judgment: Retreat. Success. In what is small, perseverance furthers. Image: Mountain under heaven: The image of Retreat. Thus the superior man keeps the inferior man at a distance, not angrily but with reserve.
Dun has Qian (Heaven) above and Gen (Mountain) below. Yin grows and Yang is blocked; it is wise to retreat and preserve strength.
Core Meanings
- Withdrawal: Actively retreating when timing is unfavorable to avoid losses.
- Restraint: Avoid conflict with small men; maintain distance and righteousness.
- Waiting: Retreating for a better future attack; accumulating strength.
Application
- Career: Fortune declining; suitable for retreat, retirement, or adjustment. Don't force leadership.
- Wealth: Poor fortune; avoid investment; protect current assets.
- Relationships: Feelings cooling down, or one party seeks solitude/escape.