Hexagram 43 · Line 2
Breakthrough — 二九
Guai · Er Jiu
The Line
Alarm cry. Evening and night weapons. Fear nothing.
Interpretation
To be ready is everything. Resoluteness is inseparably bound up with caution. If one is careful and reflective, one need not become alarmed and agitated. If one is vigilant at all times while no danger is yet present, one is armed when the danger approaches and need not fear. The noble one is on guard against what is not yet to be seen and careful about what is not yet to be heard; therefore they dwell in the midst of difficulties as if they were no difficulties. If one cultivates one's character, people submit themselves of their own accord. If reason triumphs, the passions withdraw of themselves. To be reflective and not to forget one's armor, that is the right way to safety.