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Hexagram 10: Treading

䷉ 履 (Lǚ) · Careful conduct. Tread respectfully, even near danger.

conduct, courtesy, care, respect

Lower trigram: Lake ☱ · Upper trigram: Heaven ☰

The judgment

You step on the tiger's tail and it does not bite. Even in a delicate or risky situation, good manners, a light touch and respect can carry you safely past someone stronger. Know where you stand, act with grace, and the danger stays calm.

The image

The sky overhead and the lake beneath, each at its proper level. Learn to tell high from low, and let that clarity settle people's minds and steady what they aim for.

The six lines

Read only the lines that changed in your casting, counting from the bottom.

• Line 1 (bottom): Walk simply and honestly. Plain conduct without ambition lets you move ahead without fault.
• Line 2: A quiet person walks a smooth, level road. Staying modest and keeping out of entanglements brings good fortune.
• Line 3: Overrating your own sight and strength, you step on the tiger's tail and it bites. Know your limits before taking a risk.
• Line 4: You step on the tiger's tail, but with great care. Caution and respect see you through to a good end.
• Line 5: Walking with firm resolve, knowing the danger. Determination is needed here, but stay aware of the risks it carries.
• Line 6 (top): Look back at the road you have walked and see what it led to. If your conduct holds up, great good fortune follows.

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