HEXAGRAM 10
PROPER CONDUCT

KEY WORD: TREAD CAREFULLY
MESSAGE:  DO NOT OFFEND PEOPLE

MAIN COMMENTARY

Hexagram 10 gives the analogy of stepping on a tiger’s tail but it does not  bite you to describe a dangerous situation or a powerful person which you escape from offending. It means doing something inappropriate and getting away with it. Hexagram 10 urges you tread carefully and act according to the accepted or established codes of formal behaviour and procedures in any group, organization, or situation and avoid offending people.

The metaphor of a half blind person and a handicapped person is given to describe a reckless fool, who even though they cannot see clearly ahead and act appropriately is still able to get away with doing something dangerous. A powerful person who has the power to harm others realizes the innocent intent of their actions and does not harm them.

Here is a situation where someone in a powerful position does not abuse their power to do harm. When people in high positions and people in low positions work closely together and tread carefully according to acceptable social behaviour then no one is harmed. In relationships it is to your advantage to continue in a courteous and formal. In business it is to your advantage be professional.

HEXAGRAM 10

PROPER CONDUCT

 

LINES ANALYSIS

 

LINE 1

There’s nothing wrong with going forward. Be natural in your actions and speech. Focus on substance rather than embellishments. Reconciliation can be achieved as long as things are clarified.

 

LINE 2

The analogy of a hermit or recluse is given to describe someone who has withdrawn from society to live in solitude. It’s used to describe how to proceed, which is not to be overambitious and not to strive for wealth and popularity in order to avoid getting hurt by powerful people. Therefore path ahead is wide and smooth which is fortunate for this unambitious person who has limited options.

 

LINE 3

The metaphor of a handicapped person who has difficulty walking and a blind person who can only see from one eye is given. This describes a bold and crude person who lacks clarity and proper conduct and consequently is harmed by a powerful person.

 

LINE 4

Proceed with caution to achieve your aim and things should go well. Be shrewd and apprehensive and proper in your conduct when you are dealing with a powerful situation or person.

 

LINE 5

Someone who always believes they are right and is opinionated creates a cruel and stern environment. Acting in a willful and dictatorial manner without considering the consequences eventually destroys everything and alienates others. On the other hand reconciliation can be achieved if common ground is found.

 

LINE 6
You are reflecting over the past and reviewing the present. You are reflecting what could be better. You don’t need to feel remorseful about the past. You don’t need to feel like you have to repent about your past mistakes, instead be kind to yourself and joyful. Live in the present and carry out what you want to do in a simple and sensible manner. By reflecting over past mistakes you are better prepared to do the right thing in the future. When you can assess the past in order to be better in the future, then you can freely navigate between the past present and future without having any doubts in your mind as to what needs to be done. If we want to know whether good fortune will follow, we must look at our conduct and its consequences. If the effects are good, then good fortune is certain. It is only by the consequences of our actions, by the fruit of our labours, that a you can judge what to expect