I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 4 with Changing Lines 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 47
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 4.4.5.6 -> 47
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 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:
47. Oppression (困 Kùn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☱ Dùi (Lake)
- Below
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 47
Hexagram 困 (Kùn) represents oppression, hardship, or restriction. This hexagram speaks of a time when one is trapped or hindered by external pressures or internal struggles. Success comes from endurance, inner strength, and seeking support from others.
Hexagram 47 Judgment
"困,亨,貞大人吉,无咎,有言不信。"
(Kùn, hēng, zhēn dàrén jí, wú jiù, yǒu yán bù xìn.)
“Oppression. Success. Perseverance brings good fortune to the great person. No blame. Words are not believed.”
This hexagram advises persevering through hardship and remaining true to one's principles. Success comes from maintaining integrity despite oppression. Although others may not believe in one's words, staying committed leads to good fortune.
Hexagram 47 Image
"澤無水,困。君子以致命遂志。"
(Zé wú shuǐ, kùn. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhì mìng suì zhì.)
“The lake has no water: The image of Oppression. The superior person brings their fate to completion and fulfills their will.”
The image of a dry lake represents a time of lack and hardship. The superior person, however, continues to pursue their purpose, even in the face of adversity. By accepting their fate and remaining determined, they fulfill their mission.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team