Variation in Tactics (九变篇 - Jiu Bian)
Original Content
There are roads which must not be followed, armies which must not be attacked, towns which must not be besieged, positions which must not be contested, commands of the sovereign which must not be obeyed.
Description
Emphasizes flexibility. A wise leader considers both advantage and disadvantage. Warns against five dangerous traits in a general.
Related Hexagrams
Hexagram Shi He (Biting Through): 'Legal force is effective.' Decisive breakthroughs through obstacles and variables.
Hexagram Kui (Opposition): 'In small matters, good fortune.' Finding common ground amidst differing circumstances.
Hexagram Jie (Limitation): 'Sweet limitation brings success.' Knowing what not to do (e.g., not besieging a town).
Hexagram Sun (Decrease): 'Decrease and increase have their time.' The transformation of profit and loss.
Hexagram Yi (Increase): 'Wind and thunder.' Seizing gainful opportunities during changes.