I Ching

Hexagram 4 — Youthful Folly Meng

Hexagram 4, Youthful Folly — the six lines

Classical meaning

Success. It is not I who seek the foolish youth; it is the foolish youth who seeks me. At the first inquiry, I respond. If asked two or three times, it is importunity. Persisting in importunity, I do not respond. Perseverance is favorable.

蒙。亨。匪我求童蒙。童蒙求我。初噬告。再三瀆。瀆則不告。利貞。

Image: The mountain beside a spring: the image of youthful folly. The superior man cultivates his life with clear instruction.

It represents a moment of ignorance seeking guidance. A time of learning and humility.

The six lines

Line 1. Youthful Folly – Awakening ignorance. It is beneficial to apply discipline; to remove the shackles. Proceeding thus is regrettable. Educate with discipline and then let go. Do not perpetuate punishment: teach, liberate, and allow to mature.
Line 2. Youthful Folly – Embracing inexperience is auspicious. Taking a wife is auspicious. The son is capable of managing the household. Embrace learning and assume clear responsibilities. From proper coexistence arises the capacity to lead.
Line 3. Youthful Folly – It is not favorable to take the maiden. She looks to the man of wealth and does not preserve herself. Nothing will be advantageous. Avoid alliances motivated by appearance and gain. Without firm character, the union brings harm.
Line 4. Youthful Folly – Constrained Ignorance. Regrettable. Do not suffocate with sterile harshness. Make room for understanding, not merely for repression.
Line 5. Youthful Folly – Simple youth. Auspicious. Cultivate simplicity and openness. Where there is goodwill, teaching flourishes.
Line 6. Youthful Folly – Striking ignorance. It is not favorable to attack; it is favorable to defend oneself from the aggressor. Correct firmly without being oppressive. Avoid offense; protect and educate, even under attack.
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