Hexagram 10 of 64
Treading履
Heaven above, the lake below. The noble person tells high from low and settles the people's minds.
- Upper
- Heaven
- Lower
- Lake
- Order
- 10 / 64
履虎尾，不咥人，亨。
Judgment: Treading on the tiger's tail, and it does not bite. Success.
上天下澤，履；君子以辯上下，定民志。
Image: Heaven above, the lake below. The noble person tells high from low and settles the people's minds.
In plain words
The situation: Like treading on a tiger’s tail, you must take care.
What you can do: Keep to good manners and caution, and you can pass.
For culture and reflection only. Our own plain summary, not a translation.
The six lines
- 上九視履考祥，其旋元吉。Look back over your steps and read the signs. Coming full circle brings great good fortune.In shortLook back over your steps; if they were sound, things go very well.
- 九五夬履，貞厲。Treading with resolve. Steadiness, but danger.In shortBeing too decisive and forceful is risky, even when you are right; ease up.
- 九四履虎尾，愬愬終吉。Treading on the tiger's tail, with great caution. Good fortune in the end.In shortThe situation is risky, but careful steps lead to a good end.
- 六三眇能視，跛能履，履虎尾，咥人，凶。武人為于大君。A one-eyed man can see, a lame man can walk. He treads on the tiger's tail and it bites. Misfortune. A soldier acts for a great ruler.In shortTaking big risks beyond your ability can backfire badly; do not overreach.
- 九二履道坦坦，幽人貞吉。The path is level and easy. For a quiet person, steadiness brings good fortune.In shortThe road is smooth; stay quiet and steady, and it goes well.
- 初九素履，往无咎。Plain steps forward. Going on brings no fault.In shortGo forward simply and honestly, as yourself; there is no fault.
Sources Zhou Yi. English by TaoDial.