Hexagram 10
Perform, practice, act with caution
The wisdom of the Lu hexagram lies in the word "ritual." It tells us that no matter how complicated the world is and how close the danger is, as long as we speak and act in a controlled manner and advance and retreat in a measured manner, we can turn etiquette into armor and walk safely between heaven and earth.
Trigram Structure
䷉, Qian above, Dui below
Palace：艮
Key Themes
Perform, practice, act with caution
The wisdom of the Lu hexagram lies in the word "ritual." It tells us that no matter how complicated the world is and how close the danger is, as long as we speak and act in a controlled manner and advance and retreat in a measured manner, we can turn etiquette into armor and walk safely between heaven and earth.
Walking on the tail of a tiger, it doesn't attract people, it is prosperous.
Sky reflected in the lake, clearly distinct.
Shoes, maps, legal documents, instruction manuals, tracks.
The wisdom of the Lu hexagram lies in the word "ritual." It tells us that no matter how complicated the world is and how close the danger is, as long as we speak and act in a controlled manner and advance and retreat in a measured manner, we can turn etiquette into armor and walk safely between heaven and earth.
If you wear plain shoes, you will go without any blame.
Guidance
Simple behavior, keeping to your place; advancing brings no fault.
Modern Insight
This is the starting point of action. You have no status or background; the best strategy is to maintain your original intention, simple and unadorned. Do not have improper thoughts; do not try to take shortcuts. With your simple and upright character, walk steadily step by step—this is the safest.
The road is smooth and smooth, and the person is chaste and auspicious.
Guidance
The road is smooth, the mind is peaceful; maintaining the right path brings fortune.
Modern Insight
You are in a smooth and stable position. At this time, avoid being ostentatious; maintain a low profile. Be like a "hermit," not seeking fame or profit, not causing trouble, focusing on your own duties. Your indifference and tranquility will bring you lasting good fortune.
The scorpion can see, the lame can walk. Walking on the tail of a tiger, it is bad for people. A warrior is a great king.
Guidance
Being aggressive and combative, acting recklessly, will invite disaster.
Modern Insight
This is the sternest warning, telling us never to overestimate ourselves or act beyond our capabilities. When ability is insufficient, if you rely only on raw courage to challenge high-difficulty tasks, you will inevitably suffer a crushing defeat. Recognizing your limitations is the prerequisite for protecting yourself.
Walking on the tail of a tiger, you will be happy and have good luck in the end.
Guidance
As if on the edge of an abyss, as if treading on thin ice; remain vigilant, and you will ultimately be fortunate.
Modern Insight
You are in a position very close to the center of power or the source of danger. You will feel afraid and nervous—this is very normal! This sense of awe is precisely the key to your success. It will make you proceed step by step, be extremely cautious, thus avoiding mistakes and ultimately passing through the crisis safely.
Chuanlu, chastity and sharpness.
Guidance
Decisive in action, but if stubborn, there will be danger.
Modern Insight
You are in the ruler's position—you are that "tiger." As a leader, you must make decisive decisions. But you must understand that power itself comes with risk. Every decision may bring unexpected consequences. Therefore, even if your decision is correct, you must always remain vigilant.
Look at the shoes, test the auspiciousness, and its spin is auspicious.
Guidance
Review and reflect on past behavior, check for gaps and fill them; you will gain great fortune.
Modern Insight
When something comes to an end, learn to review and summarize. Look back at your entire process and evaluate gains and losses. If you have done well throughout, then this success will lay the most solid foundation for your next journey, bringing even greater fortune.
