Transformation · lines 2, 3, and 5

Treading Carefully becomes The Flame

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Brightness doubles when the second, third and fifth lines move, and both trigrams turn to Fire. Both judgments speak, as three lines change. The starting one places you in difficulty and names the way through: conduct that's careful, aware and kind enough to soften opposition. The resulting hexagram, 30 The Flame, brings clarity: your inner self is guiding you toward your goals, and generosity that shares your light increases your gains. Together they suggest that seeing clearly is what makes careful conduct possible. When you understand your own aims, you don't need to step on anyone. Let that clarity show in your dealings. Be open about what you know and generous with it, and others are more likely to make room for you. The tiger stays calm around someone who moves with clear purpose and a warm hand.

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 30 The Flame

    There's clarity in what you do: your inner self guides you toward your goals. A generous attitude helps you, one that leads you to share your light, and this will increase your gains and achievements.

    Constancy is favorable. Success. Raising a cow brings good fortune.

  3. 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.

  4. Line 3 of 10 Treading Carefully

    By overestimating your abilities, you may take on tasks you're not prepared for.

    The one-eyed can see, the lame can walk. Stepping on the tiger's tail, and it bites. Misfortune. A warrior acts for the great prince.

  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 Fire
Above Heaven Fire

The way back

30 The Flame → 10 Treading Carefully
lines 2, 3, 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