Stepping Back
dùn · Heaven over MountainLeave while leaving is still your own choice.
亨。小利貞。
Pulling back is the way through right now. The tide has turned against you, so you get clear by leaving in good time. Small, honest efforts can still serve you well.
The six lines
初六：遯尾，厲，勿用有攸往。
You are last in the retreat, the exposed tail of the line. That is risky. Start nothing new; stay quiet until danger moves on.
六二：執之用黃牛之革，莫之勝說。
Bound as if with yellow oxhide, this tie cannot be pulled loose. Hold fast to the commitment that matters, even while everything else is shifting.
九三：係遯，有疾厲，畜臣妾吉。
Attachments hold you back, and the strain wears on you. Caring for those who depend on you can go well, but avoid big moves.
九四：好遯君子吉，小人否。
You walk away from something you are fond of, and you do it well. A person of character can manage this; someone petty cannot let go.
九五：嘉遯，貞吉。
This is a graceful, well-timed exit, done with no bitterness. Stay faithful to your purpose, and the withdrawal can turn out well.
上九：肥遯，无不利。
You step away with an easy heart and nothing tugging at you. Free of entanglements, you find few doors closed.
The I Ching is a tool for reflection. Do not use it as the basis for medical, legal or money decisions.