Treading

Upper trigram: Heaven (strong, initiating) · Lower trigram: Lake (joyous, sharing)

Judgment

Heaven above, lake below: a cheerful, light being walks behind someone powerful. Stepping on the tiger’s tail, a risky situation, can pass without a bite when met with gentle respect. This hexagram speaks of the right conduct: a measured, honest and careful way of stepping. Being modest before the strong does not conflict with keeping your integrity.

Image

Heaven above, the lake below. The noble-minded tell high from low and so settle the thinking of the people.

Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)

1. 1Line 1 (from the bottom)Simple conduct. Moving along your own natural path brings ease without ambition.
2. 2Line 2 (from the bottom)Walking a smooth, level road. A peaceful path for someone calm, unshowy and at ease being alone.
3. 3Line 3 (from the bottom)A one-eyed person trying to see, a lame person trying to walk. Overstepping your limits and treading on the tiger’s tail is risky.
4. 4Line 4 (from the bottom)Treading on the tiger’s tail, but with care. Moving ahead cautiously and thinking it through can end well.
5. 5Line 5 (from the bottom)Resolute conduct. Staying aware of the danger alongside resolve is needed here.
6. 6Line 6 (from the bottom)Looking back and examining the steps taken. Evaluating the completed path can bring a good result.