I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 10 with Changing Lines 3, 4, 6 to Hexagram 5
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 10.3.4.6 -> 5
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 3 Changing
"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.)
“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
"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.
Line 6 Changing
"视履考祥,其旋元吉。"
(Shì lǚ kǎo xiáng, qí xuán yuán jí.)
“Observing treading and inspecting the signs. It is favorable to turn around and reflect. Great good fortune.”
This line speaks of taking time to reflect on one’s actions and behavior. By carefully observing the path and being willing to make adjustments, one can achieve great good fortune. Reflection and mindfulness lead to success.
Changing to:
5. Waiting (Nourishment) (需 Xū)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 5
Hexagram 需 (Xū) represents waiting or nourishing. It reflects a time when patience and perseverance are necessary to allow circumstances to unfold naturally. The image is of rain held in the clouds, which will eventually fall, nourishing the earth. In human terms, it advises readiness without rushing, cultivating inner strength while waiting for the right moment to act.
Hexagram 5 Judgment
"有孚,光亨,贞吉。利涉大川。"
(Yǒu fú, guāng hēng, zhēn jí. Lì shè dà chuān.)
“If you are sincere, you have light and success. Perseverance brings good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great water.”
This Judgment emphasizes the importance of sincerity and clarity during times of waiting. Success will come through perseverance and maintaining one's integrity. The phrase 'cross the great water' suggests a major challenge or journey that can be successfully undertaken if approached with patience and readiness.
Hexagram 5 Image
"云上于天,需。君子以饮食宴乐。"
(Yún shàng yú tiān, xū. Jūn zǐ yǐ yǐn shí yàn lè.)
“Clouds rise up to heaven: The image of Waiting. The superior person eats and drinks, is joyful and at ease.”
The image of clouds rising up to heaven indicates that rain is not yet falling. This represents a period of waiting before action. The superior person takes this time to enjoy life's simple pleasures—food, drink, and joy—without anxiety. It is a call to cultivate patience and inner peace while waiting for the right moment.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team