Hexagram 7 · Shī (师) · Collective Discipline

師：貞丈人吉，无咎。

Sze indicates how, in the case which it supposes, with firmness and correctness, and (a leader of) age and experience, there will be good fortune and no error.

初六：師出以律，否臧，凶。

The first line, divided, shows the host going forth according to the rules (for such a movement). If these be not good, there will be evil.

九二：在師中吉，无咎；王三錫命。

The second line, undivided, shows (the leader) in the midst of the host. There will be good fortune and no error. The king has thrice conveyed to him the orders (of his favour).

六三：師或輿尸，凶。

The third line, divided, shows how the host may, possibly, have many inefficient leaders. There will be evil.

六四：師左次，无咎。

The fourth line, divided, shows the host in retreat. There is no error.

六五：田有禽，利執言，无咎。長子帥師，弟子輿尸，貞凶。

The fifth line, divided, shows birds in the fields, which it will be advantageous to seize (and destroy). In that case there will be no error. If the oldest son leads the host, and younger men (idly occupy offices assigned to them), however firm and correct he may be, there will be evil.

上六：大君有命，開國承家，小人勿用。

The topmost line, divided, shows the great ruler delivering his charges, (appointing some) to be rulers of states, and others to undertake the headship of clans; but small men should not be employed (in such positions).