Transformation · lines 1, 2, and 5

Treading Carefully becomes Advance

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Light rises over the earth when the first, second and fifth lines change, and the narrow path past the tiger opens into daylight. Three moving lines put both judgments in balance. The starting one describes a delicate passage, where the right bearing, alert and mild, keeps the danger from turning on you and can win over those in your way. The resulting hexagram, 35 Advance, says a time of growth and achievement is coming: help and favors can come from important people, doors open when you ask, and your talents are recognized. It also asks you to contribute to others' growth as you're helped. Together they show where careful conduct leads. The courtesy you showed in hard times becomes the goodwill that opens doors now. Ask for what you need. Accept help gracefully, and pass it on, keeping the same gentle manner that got you here.

What to read, in order

Marked ● is what Zhu Xi's tradition puts at the center for this number of moving lines.

  1. The judgment of 10 Treading Carefully

    You're facing a difficult situation. If you know how to conduct yourself properly, moving with awareness and gentleness, even people who could be rivals and stand in your way will give ground, and may even become your allies.

    Stepping on the tiger's tail; it does not bite. Success.

  2. The judgment of 35 Advance

    A time of growth and achievement is coming, and you should make the most of it. You'll receive help and favors from important people. If you need something, don't hesitate to ask: doors will open for you. Your talents are recognized, and just as you receive help, it's also a time to contribute to the growth and betterment of others.

    The lord of Kang is granted horses in great numbers; in a single day he is received three times.

  3. Line 1 of 10 Treading Carefully

    You're in a position out of view that will let you focus on your projects.

    A plain step. Going: no fault.

  4. Line 2 of 10 Treading Carefully

    Staying on your own with your projects, for now, will lead you to success.

    Treading a level, open road. For one who lives apart, constancy brings good fortune.

  5. Line 5 of 10 Treading Carefully

    If you're aware of the danger in going ahead and you act with caution, you'll succeed.

    A resolute step. Constancy is in danger.

The trigrams

Below Lake Earth
Above Heaven Fire

The way back

35 Advance → 10 Treading Carefully
lines 1, 2, and 5

Other transformations of Treading Carefully

Make your own cast

The answer changes with the question. Toss the coins and see which lines move for you.

Toss the coins