Lu

Judgment

履虎尾 不咥人亨

He steps on the tiger's tail but does not bite anyone, so he will prosper.

Interpretation

The Bi hexagram has the upper trigram as Kan (mountain) and the lower trigram as Li (fire). Kan represents a mountain, and Li represents fire. The image of the Bi hexagram is a mountain with fire below it. This suggests the sun is setting over the mountain, casting a beautiful, warm twilight over the world. The sunset paints everything in a golden hue, making it appear very beautiful.

The word "Bi" means "to decorate" or "to embellish." In the hexagram's interpretation, "Hyeong" represents the idea of "communication" or "connection," while "Yu" means "place" or "location." In the context of this hexagram, the situation points to the completion of a marriage or an agreement. However, there may be some small issues in the process, meaning the benefits will not be overly significant.

For those receiving this hexagram in a reading, they are advised to focus more on substance than superficiality. The image suggests a time of sunset, symbolizing a phase of decline or a period of transition. While outward appearances may be adorned or decorated, it is essential not to get caught up in external trappings or trends but to instead focus on inner growth and development.

The sun is setting, and the time for bold action has passed. Instead of focusing on large or distant goals, now is the time to pay attention to small, immediate tasks that can lead to positive outcomes. If one continues to chase unrealistic dreams or fantasies, they may face failure. To ensure success, one should let go of any illusions and focus on leading an honest and diligent life. In this situation, any work undertaken will yield some benefits, but not in a significant or grand way.

初九 素履,往,无咎

Initial Nine: Walking the simple path, going forward, no blame.

'So' means usual or original. 'I' means to tread. 'Soi' means to act according to one's usual intentions. King Wu follows his father's legacy and carries out his long-held intention of conquering the Shang dynasty. By launching an expedition, he can succeed in his conquest. A person who receives this line in divination is in a situation where they are acting according to their long-held plans, like King Wu. If they push forward as they have intended, they will succeed. The matter inquired about in divination will be without fault.

九二 履道坦坦,幽人貞吉

Nine Second: Walking on the broad road, the hermit remains steadfast, good fortune.

The character "Ido" refers to the path walked. "Tantan" means to walk without obstruction, and "Yes" means to be confined. "Incentives" refers to someone who is confined, like King Wu. King Wu's march is free from obstacles, similar to a tiger that breaks free from its cage, and it is a favorable sign. The person drawing this hexagram is currently in a situation where King Wu is marching without hindrance. The path is clear, and the work they are asking about will be successful.

六三 眇能視,跛能履,履虎尾,咥人,凶,武人爲于大君.

Six Third: The vision is weak, limping and walking, walking on a tiger’s tail, biting a person, dangerous, the warrior serves the great ruler.

The person is foolishly challenging a stronger force, leading to their destruction. This indicates a situation where the individual’s reckless behavior will result in a great disaster. It is best to avoid pursuing the matter at hand.

九四 履虎尾,愬愬,終吉

Nine Fourth: Walking on a tiger’s tail, cautious, in the end, good fortune.

The term "So" means to be afraid, and "So So" refers to a state of fear and trembling. The person is in a situation of fear but will eventually be received with kindness and protection. The person asking about the hexagram is currently afraid but will be safe from harm. The task will be prosperous.

九五 夬履,貞厲

Nine Fifth: Walking with resolution, persistence brings danger.

King Wu resolves matters with cheer after conquering Yin, but must guard against arrogance in good times. The task at hand will be precarious, requiring vigilance to avoid danger despite swift success.

上九 視履考祥,其旋元吉.

Top Nine: Examining the shoes, the turning is fortunate, great fortune.

King Wu meticulously pacifies Yin’s chaos after conquest and returns triumphantly to Zhou, a great fortune. The task at hand will fulfill your ambitions, bringing a glorious homecoming, and it promises great auspiciousness.