I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 10 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 4 to Hexagram 20
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 10.1.2.4 -> 20
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
"履虎尾，不咥人，亨。"
(Lǚ hǔ wěi, bù dié rén, hēng.)
“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
"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.)
“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
"素履，往无咎。"
(Sù lǚ, wǎng wú jiù.)
“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
"履道坦坦，幽人贞吉。"
(Lǚ dào tǎn tǎn, yōu rén zhēn jí.)
“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 4 Changing
"履虎尾，愬愬，终吉。"
(Lǚ hǔ wěi, sù sù, zhōng jí.)
“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.
Changing to:
20. Contemplation (觀 Guān)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 20
Hexagram 觀 (Guān) symbolizes contemplation and observation. This hexagram represents a time to pause and reflect, gaining insight through careful observation rather than immediate action.
Hexagram 20 Judgment
"觀，盥而不薦，有孚顒若。"
(Guān, guàn ér bù jiàn, yǒu fú yǒng ruò.)
“Contemplation. Washing the hands, but not making an offering. With sincerity and awareness, clarity comes.”
This hexagram speaks of taking time to reflect before making decisions or taking action. By cultivating sincerity and careful observation, clarity and insight are gained. It advises patience and deep contemplation.
Hexagram 20 Image
"風行地上，觀。先王以省方，觀民設教。"
(Fēng xíng dì shàng, guān. Xiān wáng yǐ xǐng fāng, guān mín shè jiào.)
“The wind blows over the earth: The image of Contemplation. The ancient kings made tours of inspection to observe the people and teach them.”
The wind blowing over the earth symbolizes the power of observation. The superior person uses this time to observe, learn, and understand, much like the ancient kings who traveled to see the state of their people and teach them accordingly.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team