Trigrams
☰☱ – Heaven above, Lake below
Meaning
Represents careful conduct in the face of danger. One treads on the tiger's tail yet is not bitten — through mindful, respectful behavior. How one walks through life, especially in hazardous situations, determines the outcome.
Interpretation
- Be aware of where you step; careless action in sensitive situations invites danger.
- Respect and courtesy are your greatest protection.
- The humble and genuine person can walk safely even in perilous territory.
Six Yao (Lines) with Classical Quotes
1st Yao (初爻)
素履，往无咎。
English: Plain and simple treading, going forward without blame. Act with simplicity and natural virtue and nothing goes wrong.
Luck Level: Neutral
2nd Yao (二爻)
履道坦坦，幽人贞吉。
English: Treading a smooth and level path. The quiet, reclusive person persists and finds good fortune. Those who keep to their own path without seeking recognition do well.
Luck Level: Good
3rd Yao (三爻)
眼能视，跛能履，履虎尾，咍人，凶；武人为于大君。
English: A one-eyed person thinks they can see clearly; a lame person thinks they can walk well. Treading on the tiger's tail, it bites — misfortune. A warrior acts boldly for the great ruler. Know your own limits before acting.
Luck Level: Misfortune
4th Yao (四爻)
履虎尾，潑潑，终吉。
English: Treading on the tiger's tail, cautious and fearful, but ultimately good fortune. Careful awareness of danger, maintained throughout, leads to safety.
Luck Level: Good
5th Yao (五爻)
夕履，贞厉。
English: Resolute treading. Persistence is dangerous. Overconfidence in one's own conduct leads to risk.
Luck Level: Caution
6th Yao (上爻)
视履考祥，其旋元吉。
English: Look back upon your conduct and examine the omens. If the whole journey has been correct, great good fortune. A life of righteous conduct brings the finest reward.
Luck Level: Excellent