I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 10 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 to Hexagram 52

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 10.1.2.3.4.5 -> 52

10. Treading (履 Lǚ)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☱ Dui (Lake)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 10

Hexagram 履 (Lǚ) represents careful treading or walking. It emphasizes caution in behavior and the need for sensitivity to the conditions around you. Success comes from walking the line between boldness and discretion.

Hexagram 10 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"履虎尾,不咥人,亨。"
(Lǚ hǔ wěi, bù dié rén, hēng.)
English Translation:
“Treading on the tail of the tiger. It does not bite the man. Success.”

This hexagram speaks of treading in a dangerous situation, like walking on a tiger's tail. However, if one proceeds cautiously and with respect, no harm will come, and success can be achieved.

Hexagram 10 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"上天下泽,履。君子以辨上下,定民志。"
(Shàng tiān xià zé, lǚ. Jūn zǐ yǐ biàn shàng xià, dìng mín zhì.)
English Translation:
“Heaven above, the lake below: The image of Treading. The superior person discriminates between high and low, and strengthens the people’s resolve.”

The image of heaven above and the lake below suggests a balance between different forces. The superior person walks carefully, recognizing the hierarchy of forces and ensuring that the people’s resolve is firm. It is about maintaining balance and discernment.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"素履,往无咎。"
(Sù lǚ, wǎng wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Simple treading. Going forward brings no blame.”

This line suggests that simple, honest behavior brings no harm. By walking humbly and avoiding excess, one can proceed without danger or blame.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"履道坦坦,幽人贞吉。"
(Lǚ dào tǎn tǎn, yōu rén zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Treading a smooth path. The recluse’s perseverance brings good fortune.”

This line describes a smooth and straightforward path. It suggests that those who follow their inner principles (like the recluse) and stay true to themselves will experience good fortune. Perseverance in simplicity brings success.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"眇能视,跛能履,履虎尾,咥人,凶。武人为于大君。"
(Miǎo néng shì, bǒ néng lǚ, lǚ hǔ wěi, dié rén, xiōng. Wǔ rén wéi yú dà jūn.)
English Translation:
“A one-eyed man can see, a lame man can walk. Treading on the tail of the tiger, it bites the man. Misfortune. A warrior acts for the great lord.”

This line warns of the dangers of overconfidence. A person with limitations (one-eyed or lame) may still be capable, but treading recklessly will result in harm. The image of treading on the tiger’s tail represents the risk of provoking danger. Overstepping boundaries can lead to misfortune.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"履虎尾,愬愬,终吉。"
(Lǚ hǔ wěi, sù sù, zhōng jí.)
English Translation:
“Treading on the tail of the tiger. Cautious and apprehensive. In the end, good fortune.”

This line emphasizes the need for caution and awareness in dangerous situations. By remaining alert and not being reckless, one can avoid harm and achieve success. Careful treading leads to a positive outcome.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"夬履,贞厉。"
(Guài lǚ, zhēn lì.)
English Translation:
“Resolute treading. Perseverance brings danger.”

This line suggests a bold and resolute approach, but warns that too much force or rigidity can lead to danger. Perseverance must be tempered with caution to avoid overstepping bounds and causing harm.

Changing to:

52. Keeping Still (艮 Gèn)

Trigrams

Above
☶ Gèn (Mountain)
Below
☶ Gèn (Mountain)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 52

Hexagram 艮 (Gèn) represents stillness and stability, like a mountain. This hexagram speaks of the importance of remaining calm and centered, even in the face of external pressures. Success comes from mastering self-control and inner peace.

Hexagram 52 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"艮其背,不獲其身,行其庭,不見其人,无咎。"
(Gèn qí bèi, bù huò qí shēn, xíng qí tíng, bù jiàn qí rén, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Keeping still, restraining the back. One does not grasp oneself. Walking in the courtyard, one does not see others. No blame.”

This hexagram advises remaining calm and centered, restraining impulses and external distractions. By focusing on inner stillness, one avoids mistakes and remains clear-minded. Success comes from self-discipline and tranquility.

Hexagram 52 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"兼山,艮。君子以思不出其位。"
(Jiān shān, gèn. Jūn zǐ yǐ sī bù chū qí wèi.)
English Translation:
“Mountains standing still: The image of Keeping Still. The superior person does not allow their thoughts to go beyond their place.”

The image of mountains standing still symbolizes the importance of maintaining stability and not overreaching. The superior person remains grounded, controlling their thoughts and emotions, leading to success.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team