Ground water is invisibly present within the earth in the same way as power is invisibly present in the masses.  During times of war ordinary people are drawn from all walks of life to become soldiers.  After the war, it is better that they be paid an appropriate financial settlement and returned to their civilian lives rather than be awarded ruling positions lest power be abused.

The hexagram denotes an efficient General who maintains obedience in the army by his authority.  He captures the heart of the people and awakens their enthusiasm, he explains the justifying cause of the war and outlines clear and intelligible war aims.  There will be no victory unless the army can unite with strength and conviction behind a definite  objective.  The General has a responsibility to ensure that where energetic combat is thoroughly justified, it is properly directed and does not degenerate into a mayhem where mob rule and excessive force prevails.

The General remains in the midst of his army, in touch with it and sharing good and bad with those he leads.  Should he receive the recognition of the rulers and be awarded decorations the whole army is honoured in his person.