10. Treading
Lǚ — Treading / Conduct
Trigrams
The Judgment
Treading upon the tail of the tiger. It does not bite. Success.
The Image
Heaven above lake — the strong above, the pleasant below. One treads carefully in the presence of great power, with joy and confidence rather than fear.
Interpretation
You are in a situation that requires careful conduct — like walking near a tiger. The danger is real but not inevitable. If you proceed with proper respect, good humor, and awareness of your position, you will pass through safely. This hexagram is about knowing how to behave when the stakes are high and the power differential is real. Neither cower nor provoke — walk with quiet confidence and correct behavior.
Advice
Proceed carefully but confidently. Show respect to those in power. Mind your manners and your conduct. The situation is dangerous but navigable if you tread with awareness and propriety.