10: Lü

This hexagram depicts a perilous situation that nevertheless permits advance. The weak treads upon the strong, yet survives — not through force or cunning, but through proper conduct and timing. The image suggests walking behind a powerful, potentially dangerous force. Success depends not on avoiding all risk, but on understanding the nature of what one faces. The tiger represents concentrated power that can destroy carelessly, yet may spare what approaches with genuine respect and clarity of purpose. What makes progress possible here is a quality of attention — neither reckless boldness nor paralyzing caution, but measured steps taken with full awareness of the ground. This is conduct that recognizes hierarchy without becoming servile, that advances without provoking.