Transformation · lines 2 and 4

Treading Carefully becomes Increase

Starting hexagram
Resulting hexagram

What this change means

Two firm lines move, the fourth and the second, and the figure turns into wind over thunder. The fourth leads, stepping on the tiger's tail with eyes open: the venture is risky, yet inner strength and steady firmness see you through, and the end is good. The second adds a quieter strength, the solitary walker on an even road whose constancy is rewarded; for now, keeping to your own work pays. The resulting hexagram, 42 Increase, opens a time of gain in which your projects can grow and prosper. It asks you to keep your inner integrity, learn from people who have the qualities you'd like to gain, and drop the traits that caused you trouble before. So the risk you're taking can pay, as long as you stay alert and centered. Grow through careful courage, and share the gains generously.

What to read, in order

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

  1. Line 4 of 10 Treading Carefully

    You're getting involved in a risky venture, but your inner strength and firmness will help you succeed.

    Stepping on the tiger's tail. Wary, wary; in the end, good fortune.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. The judgment of 42 Increase

    You're in a time of gain and growth: your projects will grow and prosper. At times like this it's important to keep your inner integrity, follow the example of people who have the qualities you want to gain, and get rid of the traits that have caused you trouble before. Overall, it's a time of achievement and generosity.

    It is favorable to have somewhere to go. It is favorable to cross the great river.

The trigrams

Below Lake Thunder
Above Heaven Wind

The way back

42 Increase → 10 Treading Carefully
lines 2 and 4

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