I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 4 with Changing Lines 1, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 58
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 4.1.4.5.6 -> 58
4. Youthful Folly (蒙 Méng)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☶ Gèn (Mountain)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 4
Hexagram 蒙 (Méng) represents youthful folly, the state of ignorance and inexperience. It symbolizes the early stages of development when one lacks knowledge or wisdom and requires guidance. Youthful Folly encourages learning, seeking instruction, and being open to correction in order to grow and mature.
Hexagram 4 Judgment
"发蒙,利用刑人,用说桎梏,以往吝。"
(Fā méng, lì yòng xíng rén, yòng shuō zhì gù, yǐ wǎng lìn.)
“Youthful folly has success. It is not I who seek the young fool, but the young fool who seeks me. At the first oracle, I inform him. If he asks two or three times, it is importunity. If he importunes, I give him no information. Perseverance furthers.”
Youthful folly represents a lack of knowledge and understanding, which can only be overcome through learning. The judgment advises that one should seek wisdom rather than passively wait for it. At the same time, if someone repeatedly asks the same question without making an effort to learn, their behavior is considered importunate, and they will not receive further instruction. Success comes through the sincere pursuit of knowledge and perseverance.
Hexagram 4 Image
"山下出泉,蒙。君子以果行育德。"
(Shān xià chū quán, méng. Jūn zǐ yǐ guǒ xíng yù dé.)
“A spring wells up at the foot of the mountain: The image of Youthful Folly. The superior person fosters character by thoroughly carrying out his or her resolve.”
The image of a spring beneath the mountain suggests that wisdom and clarity are hidden beneath the surface, much like how a youth must grow and develop in character before wisdom can emerge. The superior person fosters their development by persistently acting on their resolve, committing to a path of learning and self-improvement.
Line 1 Changing
"发蒙,利用刑人,用说桎梏,以往吝。"
(Fā méng, lì yòng xíng rén, yòng shuō zhì gù, yǐ wǎng lìn.)
“To enlighten youthful folly, it is beneficial to use punishment. Release shackles and manacles. Going forward leads to regret.”
This line indicates that sometimes, in order to correct ignorance or youthful folly, firm discipline or punishment may be necessary. However, it also advises that once the lesson is learned and the restrictions removed, one must proceed cautiously, as further missteps could lead to regret.
Line 4 Changing
"困蒙,吝。"
(Kùn méng, lìn.)
“Entangled in youthful folly, one faces difficulty and regret.”
This line describes a situation where ignorance or inexperience leads to being trapped in difficult circumstances. The entanglement of youthful folly causes missteps that bring about regret. It suggests that without proper guidance or self-awareness, one risks getting stuck in errors.
Line 5 Changing
"童蒙吉。"
(Tóng méng jí.)
“Youthful folly brings good fortune.”
This line suggests that being young and inexperienced is not inherently negative, as it offers opportunities for growth and learning. Through the process of overcoming youthful folly, one can achieve success and good fortune. It is a reminder that ignorance is the starting point for wisdom.
Line 6 Changing
"击蒙,不利为寇,利御寇。"
(Jī méng, bù lì wéi kòu, lì yù kòu.)
“Striking against youthful folly. It is not advantageous to take action like a bandit. It is favorable to defend against bandits.”
This line advises against reacting aggressively or forcefully to ignorance or youthful folly, which would be akin to acting like a bandit. Instead, it is more advantageous to defend against negative influences and guide others with patience. The best way to overcome youthful folly is through guidance, not force.
Changing to:
58. The Joyous (兌 Duì)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Duì (Lake)
- Below
- ☱ Duì (Lake)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 58
Hexagram 兌 (Duì) represents the joyous, cheerful influence of the lake. This hexagram speaks of communication, happiness, and mutual support. Success comes from creating a joyful, open atmosphere where people feel free to express themselves.
Hexagram 58 Judgment
"兌,亨,利貞。"
(Duì, hēng, lì zhēn.)
“The Joyous. Success. Perseverance furthers.”
This hexagram advises fostering a joyful and open environment, where success comes from mutual support and clear communication. Perseverance in creating this atmosphere leads to long-term success.
Hexagram 58 Image
"麗澤,兌。君子以朋友講習。"
(Lì zé, duì. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“Lakes resting on one another: The image of The Joyous. The superior person joins with friends for discussion and practice.”
The image of two lakes represents a supportive and harmonious relationship, where mutual joy flows freely. The superior person, like the lake, engages in meaningful discussions with friends, fostering mutual growth and understanding.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team