Hexagram 10: Lǚ 履

What hexagram 10 means

Careful footing matters when a Lake’s joy sits directly beneath Heaven’s vast reach. Attentive conduct, mindful of what is genuinely at stake, lets you move through a demanding situation without stumbling.

A question to sit with

What careful step would let me move through this without losing my footing?

The six lines, bottom to top

A changing line is read on its own. These are original reflections written for this site, not a translation.

Line 1 · The beginning

Simple, unadorned conduct is enough to take a first step. If you are beginning something, going forward in your own plain way needs no justification. Let your intentions stay clear and uncomplicated.

Line 2 · The inner position

An easy, even path suits someone who walks quietly and independently. At this central place, keeping your own counsel can let you move without entanglement. What would it mean to travel your path without needing anyone’s approval?

Line 3 · The threshold

The image here is of someone who sees with one eye and walks with a limp yet treads on a tiger’s tail. Overestimating your readiness can provoke a sharp response. Consider whether your confidence matches your actual footing.

Line 4 · Entering the outer

A foot set on a tiger’s tail is the image at this step outward. When the ground is this demanding, small, deliberate steps are what the moment asks for. Where might a measured pace be your best protection?

Line 5 · The position of authority

Decisions taken from the seat of authority carry weight, and their cost deserves a clear look. Confidence is useful here as long as it does not become careless. How can you remain decisive while keeping the risks in view?

Line 6 · The end, and excess

Looking back along the road you have travelled shows where your steps have led. That trail is worth studying. What does the path behind you suggest about the path ahead?