Hexagram 10：Treading
The Meaning of Hexagram 10
Treading (Conduct), per the I Ching, stresses the need for earnest effort and unwavering commitment to personal growth. It advocates finding balance, staying true to inner morals, and cautious action for success. The hexagram advises sincerity and simplicity in confronting fate, emphasizing inner development and humility, while cautioning against aggression and urging respect for the impact of others .
Changing Lines in Hexagram 10
Changes in Line 1
Your work has reached a stage of completion, and now it’s time to count your blessings. By assessing the results of your past efforts, you can know what to expect going forward. The farmer who harvests healthy crops in the fall can safely predict a prosperous winter.
Changes in Line 2
Walking among sleeping tigers is dangerous. Resolute conduct in the face of danger and a clear-eyed assessment of the situation are the only means of a successful resolution.
Changes in Line 3
When you are certain of your ultimate success, even stomping on the tiger’s tail doesn’t matter. The most important thing is to take action when conditions are favorable. Even so, great caution and consideration should be taken beforehand, so that the outcome is clear before you make your move.
Changes in Line 4
When people with poor vision tread among sleeping tigers, they meet with disaster. Do not try to go beyond your capacity at this time—you will create problems if you think your power is greater than it is. If you believe you can overcome all obstacles by aggressive effort alone, misfortune is highly likely; to plunge recklessly ahead would be to risk great failure. Even if you think you are in the right, do not overestimate your strength. Keep your ambitions in check for the time being.
Changes in Line 5
Beyond the trauma of failure lies the stillness of wisdom. Withdrawing from the bustle of events and eliminating unnecessary desires brings clarity of purpose. Life becomes a smoother road when you understand that happiness comes less from having what you want than from wanting what you have. Be grateful for what you have.
Changes in Line 6
When coming from a humble position, inner strength in the form of modesty is a key to advancement. Conscientious work is rewarded when one’s motives are simple and intentions genuine (especially when credit goes to the supervisor). Simplicity in action will leave you free of obligation. To strive aggressively now could put you in a position of greater difficulty.
