Hexagram 10
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履 (Lǚ)
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Lǚ
Treading (Conduct)
Treading (Conduct) (履 (Lǚ)): Upper Heaven, Lower Lake. Treading upon the tiger tail without being bitten; supreme poise and courtesy.
Upper Trigram
Heaven
Lower Trigram
Lake
⚖ The Judgment
Treading upon the tiger tail without being bitten; supreme poise and courtesy.
✧ The Image
Heaven above, lake below; the noble person distinguishes high from low to clarify aspirations.
Philosophical Interpretation
In the I Ching (Book of Changes), Hexagram 10 (Treading (Conduct) / 履 (Lǚ)) embodies the cosmic dynamic between Heaven above and Lake below. It teaches that wisdom arises from understanding seasonal transitions and adhering to moral constancy.
The Six Changing Lines
- 1 Line 1: Beginning phase of Treading (Conduct); observe quiet reserve.
- 2 Line 2: Inner equilibrium aligned with virtuous company.
- 3 Line 3: Transition point; rash action invites complication.
- 4 Line 4: Deep breakthrough; sincerity dissipates lingering doubts.
- 5 Line 5: Central sovereign seat; radiant integrity guides the collective.
- 6 Line 6: Culmination and apex; beware hubris as the cycle turns.