Hexagram 4
Youthful Folly (Méng)
Above: Mountain · Below: Water
When you can't see clearly, first find the right person
Video
The judgment
It is not the teacher who seeks out the student; the student comes to the teacher. The first sincere question gets an answer; asking again and again shows a lack of sincerity, and no answer is given.
The Image: A spring flows out at the foot of the mountain: youthful folly. So the noble person acts decisively and nurtures character.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Wisdom not yet awakened; unclear and closed off; hesitant, lacking decisiveness. If one follows the guidance of a good teacher and good friends, the mind opens and things go well.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
Which grass is not turning yellow? … The family is torn apart, and sorrow fills the heart.
When you cannot see the way ahead, it is easy to feel alone and worried.
Takashima
- On trade: act decisively and things will go well.
- On career and recognition: a scholar of good character living quietly deep in the mountains … will in the end come out and be of use to the world.
Five common questions
Timing
Still unclear; seek a good teacher
Health
See a doctor early; don't delay or doubt
Money
Act decisively once clear; otherwise wait
Home
Teaching children comes first; choose good teachers
Love
Unclear at first, clearer with time
The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.
The six lines
- Six at the beginning: To clear away ignorance, it helps to set an example of discipline and to loosen the shackles. To go on like this brings humiliation.
- Nine in the second place: To bear with the foolish brings good fortune. To take a wife brings good fortune. The son can take charge of the household.
- Six in the third place: Do not take a woman who, on seeing a man of gold, loses hold of herself. Nothing is favorable.
- Six in the fourth place: Trapped in ignorance. Humiliation.
- Six in the fifth place: Childlike innocence. Good fortune.
- Nine at the top: Striking at folly. It does not favor acting like a raider; it favors guarding against raiders.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.