天山遯
Core Insight
天山遯 — Hexagram 33
Retreat. The small advances; the great withdraws with dignity. Not flight — a strategic step back that preserves strength for a better hour.
The Image
天下有山，遯；君子以遠小人，不惡而嚴。
The Image of Retreat: distance yourself from inferior influence without hatred or drama. Treat the image as practical discipline, not decoration: let it shape the next concrete choice.
Shifting lines
初爻
At the beginning of Retreat, keep the move small. Clarify the real question before seeking momentum.
二爻
A steadier position appears. Accept help, test the facts, and choose the next step that can be repeated.
三爻
Pressure rises in Retreat. Do not make the tension theatrical; name the risk and reduce the unnecessary load.
四爻
The situation nears a threshold. Recheck motives, adjust the method, and avoid forcing a premature outcome.
五爻
This is the governing line of Retreat. Act from the clearest principle and make the decision useful to others.
上爻
The pattern is reaching its limit. Complete what can be completed, release excess, and prepare for the next change.