Above is the trigram Zhen (Thunder), below is the trigram Gen (Mountain). The metaphorical image of this hexagram is a mountain peak that may seem very close to the source of thunder, but the earthly immobility of the peak does not allow it to rise closer. As the echo of thunder fades, it seems to remind the mountain to engage in worldly matters, not lofty ones.
The form of this hexagram also resembles a bird flapping its wings for flight, but Xiao Guo tells this bird that the time of thunder is not the time for ambitious flights. It is more prudent to fly down from the mountain to a safe nest. Similarly, this hexagram tells us that now is the time for carrying out modest duties, not for implementing grandiose plans.
In this situation, it will be difficult for us to do something significant, and despite our hard work, we may miss some opportunities. It is best to take a reserved stance and focus on small matters until it becomes clear what to do next.
However, we should not completely abandon our ambitions and goal. Self-denial through excessive humility can grow into meanness and disrespect towards others. We must remember balance and not fall into extremes. The hexagram also reminds us that often simple caution can prevent great disaster.