Hexagram 17

Following (Suí)

Above: Lake · Below: Thunder

Follow the right person, and things get done

Following (Suí)

Hexagram 17 · Following (Suí)

The judgment

Go along with the times while keeping to what is right, and there will be no fault.

The Image: Thunder within the lake: following. So the noble person goes indoors at nightfall to rest.

Going along in harmony, firm and self-possessed; follow the turn of fortune, and do not be domineering.

The crow calls east and west, summoning its flock; but it cannot decide on its own, and flies home alone.

The crow wants to gather its companions, but it isn't the one in charge, and in the end it flies home alone.

On fortune: your luck is ordinary for now. Keep a low profile for a while; next year favors travel, and by the fifth year there will be gains.
On business: some goods will be hard to sell for a while; next spring they will turn a profit.

Ordinary for now; keep a low profile

Follow the seasons; rest and recover

Hard to sell now; profit next spring

Guard against night frights; rest at dusk

Go along together; decide together

The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.

The six lines

Nine at the beginning: The standard changes. Steadfastness brings good fortune. Going out to meet others brings achievement.
Six in the second place: Clinging to the little boy, one loses the strong man.
Six in the third place: Clinging to the strong man, one loses the little boy. Following, one gets what one seeks. It is favorable to stay steady.
Nine in the fourth place: Following brings gains, but persisting brings misfortune. With sincerity on the path and a clear mind, how could there be blame?
Nine in the fifth place: Sincere toward what is good. Good fortune.
Six at the top: Held fast and bound, then followed and tied. The king makes offerings on the western mountain.

Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.