I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 10 with Changing Lines 3, 4 to Hexagram 9
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 10.3.4 -> 9
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.
Changing to:
9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☴ Xùn (Wind)
- Below
- ☰ Qián (Heaven)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 9
Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.
Hexagram 9 Judgment
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”
This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.
Hexagram 9 Image
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”
The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team