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Hexagram:
04. Youthful Folly
Line
Drawn as
Energy
Duality
Trigram
Dynamic
Polarity
Upper
Mountain
Youngest Son
Immature Yang
Lower
Water
Middle Son
Immature Yang
6
5
4
3
2
1
Yang
Yin
Yin
Yin
Yang
Yin
Masculine
Feminine
Feminine
Feminine
Masculine
Feminine
#
English Name
Chinese Name
Hanzi
Pinyin
Action
Hexagram:
卦 Guà
04. Youthful Folly
蒙
méng
Try Again
Hidden Influence:
互卦 Hu Guà (nuclear)
24. Returning
復
fu / fù
Go back
Underlying Cause:
綜卦 Zong Guà (reverse)
49. Revolution
革
ko / gé
Transform
Expression:
Also known as:
I gain experience
Youthful Folly, Seeking Guidance, Inexperienced Curiosity, The Need for Learning, Questions and Doubts, Humble Inquiry, Openness to Advice, Growth Through Mentorship, Patience in Development, Wisdom in Time
Affirmation:
I embrace my curiosity and willingness to learn, knowing that each step and mistake is a valuable lesson on my journey to wisdom and growth. I am open to guidance and eager to grow with a humble heart.
Image (Legge):
A spring wells up at the foot of the mountain: the image of Youth. Thus the superior man fosters his character by thoroughness in all that he does.
Judgement (Legge):
Youthful Folly has success. It is not I who seek the young fool; the young fool 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.
Overall meaning:
Youthful Folly, represents a time of learning, growth, and exploration, where inexperience and curiosity drive the journey. It reflects the energy of a beginner who is eager to learn but may lack understanding or direction. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of being open to guidance, accepting instruction with humility, and recognizing the value of patience and self-discipline as one navigates the unknown.
A reminder that growth often comes through mistakes and challenges. It advises the seeker to approach life with a curious mind, a willing heart, and the awareness that wisdom is gained over time. By remaining receptive to learning, being willing to listen, and not rushing forward blindly, one can transform initial ignorance into meaningful knowledge and deeper understanding.
Quotes:
Upright Hexagram
Rotated 90°
counter clockwise
Change - - to 0
Change — to 1
Binary Number Created:
100010
Line 1:
Emphasizes the need to address ignorance through correction or discipline, helping to free the mind from its constraints. However, it warns that relying too heavily on punishment can lead to regret, suggesting a balanced approach that promotes learning and understanding rather than just punishment.
Line 2:
Encourages patience and tolerance toward those who are ignorant, which brings good fortune. It suggests recognizing and valuing the positive qualities in others, even those who may be underestimated, and portrays someone who is responsible and capable of carrying the weight of their family’s well-being.
Line 3:
Advises against forming a relationship with someone who is easily swayed by material wealth and lacks self-control or loyalty. It suggests that no good will come from associating with a person who values superficial gains over genuine connection or integrity.
Line 4:
Depicts someone trapped in their own ignorance, unable to see beyond their limitations. This lack of awareness or understanding will lead to mistakes and cause future regret if not addressed.
Line 5:
Represents someone who, despite being inexperienced or naive, approaches life with simplicity and sincerity. This genuine and straightforward nature brings good fortune, suggesting that innocence and openness can lead to positive outcomes.
Line 6:
Suggests that while it may seem necessary to correct an ignorant person, harming them will bring no benefit. True advantage comes from guiding and protecting them, helping them to learn without causing unnecessary harm.
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