I Ching hexagram
10. Cautious Advance
履Lǚ
Heaven over Lake
Also called Treading, Conduct, The Symbol of Stepping Carefully, Proper Conduct, Cautious Treading, Proceeding Cautiously, Watch Your Step, Proceed at Your Own Risk, Advancing With Care "Illustrates the difference between courage and foolhardiness." -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 10, Cautious Advance (履 Lǚ) is formed by Heaven over Lake. It is also known as Treading, Conduct, The Symbol of Stepping Carefully, Proper Conduct, Cautious Treading, Proceeding Cautiously, Watch Your Step, Proceed at Your Own Risk. The judgment is James Legge. The six lines are R.L. Wing — the same texts used in a reading on this site.
The judgment
James Legge
Cautious Advance suggests the idea of one treading on the tail of a tiger, which does not bite him. There will be progress and success.
The six lines
R.L. Wing · line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yang
Use your most basic values of Conduct in advancing toward your aim. Do not try to use others beyond maintaining friendly relations. Do not become obligated to others in your endeavors. Your position is low. Simplicity in your behavior will prevent mistakes and allow you to progress.
- Line 2Yang
Maintain an ambiance of modesty and moderation. Do not harbor expectations or demands. Do not get involved with the dreams of others or hold overly ambitious goals. In this way you will meet with good fortune.
- Line 3Yin
You are not suited for the ambitiousness of your goals. Your powers are not adequate. Willfulness on your part could end in disaster. Such Conduct is only for someone willing to throw himself away for a superior.
- Line 4Yang
You can now undertake even dangerous endeavors if you proceed with great caution.
- Line 5Yang
What you propose to do is dangerous, yet your awareness of such danger will give you the strength to succeed. The time requires a firm commitment to your endeavor. If you do not have a real commitment in your heart you should re- examine your path.
- Line 6Yang
Take a long look at what your Conduct in the situation has achieved thus far. If you are on the right path you will know by the good it has produced. It is time for a reevaluation of your goals. By examining the past you may now get a glimpse of the future.
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 10 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings.