17. Following (隨 Suí)

Trigrams

Above

☱ Dùi (Lake)

Below

☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

Symbolic Meaning

隨 (Suí) symbolizes following, adapting, and being flexible. This hexagram represents a time when it is wise to follow the flow of events, adapting to circumstances without trying to impose one's will. Success comes from flexibility and responsiveness.

Judgment

Original Chinese:
"隨，元亨，利貞，无咎。"
(Suí, yuán hēng, lì zhēn, wú jiù.)

"Following. Supreme success. Perseverance brings good fortune. No blame."

This hexagram advises adaptability. By following the course of events and responding to circumstances with flexibility, one achieves success. It is important to remain committed to principles while being responsive to change.

Image

Original Chinese:
"澤中有雷，隨。君子以嚮晦入宴息。"
(Zé zhōng yǒu léi, suí. Jūn zǐ yǐ xiàng huì rù yàn xī.)

"Thunder within the lake: The image of Following. The superior person withdraws when the time is not right and rests."

The image of thunder within the lake suggests a time of reflection and withdrawal. The superior person follows the course of events, knowing when to act and when to rest. It is important to conserve energy and wait for the right moment.

Line 1

Original Chinese:
"係小子，失丈夫。"
(Xì xiǎo zǐ, shī zhàng fū.)

"Tied to the little boy. Losing the man."

This line warns against following the wrong leader or influence. By attaching oneself to those who are inexperienced or immature, one risks losing the support of those who are wiser or more capable.

Line 2

Original Chinese:
"係丈夫，失小子。隨有求得，利居貞。"
(Xì zhàng fū, shī xiǎo zǐ. Suí yǒu qiú dé, lì jū zhēn.)

"Tied to the man. Losing the little boy. Following brings benefit. It is favorable to remain steadfast."

This line advises following a capable leader while letting go of lesser influences. In doing so, one gains what they seek, and steadfastness brings good fortune.

Line 3

Original Chinese:
"係小子，吝，有咎。"
(Xì xiǎo zǐ, lìn, yǒu jiù.)

"Tied to the little boy. Misfortune and blame."

This line warns of the dangers of relying on those who are immature or inexperienced. Following the wrong person leads to regret and blame.

Line 4

Original Chinese:
"隨有獲，貞凶。有孚在道，以明，何咎。"
(Suí yǒu huò, zhēn xiōng. Yǒu fú zài dào, yǐ míng, hé jiù.)

"Following with gain. Perseverance leads to misfortune. If sincerity is present, no blame."

This line suggests that while following may bring gains, it can lead to misfortune if one is not careful. However, if sincerity and clarity guide the way, one can avoid blame.

Line 5

Original Chinese:
"孚于嘉，吉。"
(Fú yú jiā, jí.)

"Sincerity in following brings good fortune."

This line advises sincerity and good intentions in following others. With these qualities, good fortune is assured.

Line 6

Original Chinese:
"拘係之，乃從維之，王用亨于西山。"
(Jū xì zhī, nǎi cóng wéi zhī, wáng yòng hēng yú xī shān.)

"Bound with ropes, yet following. The king sacrifices on the western mountain."

This line speaks of a situation where one is restricted or bound but still chooses to follow. The king’s sacrifice symbolizes the importance of humility and devotion in difficult circumstances.