Hexagram #17
Suí

Following

"Thunder in the middle of the lake. At nightfall, go indoors and rest."

Upper Trigram
Wind ()
Lower Trigram
Mountain ()

The Judgment

Following has supreme success. Perseverance furthers. No blame.

Original Text

元亨利贞,无咎。

The Image

Thunder in the middle of the lake: The image of Following. Thus the superior man at nightfall goes indoors for rest and recuperation.

Original Text

泽中有雷,随;君子以向晦入宴息。

Interpretation

The Lines

Line 1

Nine at the Beginning初九

"The standard is changing. Perseverance brings good fortune. To go out of the door and mingle produces works."

Adapt to changes. Engaging with others brings success.

Original: 官有变,贞吉。出门交有功。

Line 2

Six at the Place 2六二

"If one clings to the little boy, one loses the strong man."

Choosing inferior company causes you to lose the respect of superior people.

Original: 系小子,失丈夫。

Line 3

Six at the Place 3六三

"If one clings to the strong man, one loses the little boy. Through following one finds what one seeks. It furthers one to remain persevering."

Sacrifice small comforts for greater goals. Stick to the right path.

Original: 系丈夫,失小子。随有求得,利居贞。

Line 4

Nine at the Place 4九四

"Following creates success. Perseverance brings misfortune. To be sincere in the way brings clarity. How could there be blame?"

Do not use your influence for selfish gain. Stay true to your principles.

Original: 随有获,贞凶。有孚在道,以明,何咎。

Line 5

Nine at the Place 5九五

"Sincerity in the good. Good fortune."

Choose the good and follow it with a sincere heart.

Original: 孚于嘉,吉。

Line 6

Six at the Top上六

"He meets with firm allegiance and is still further bound. The king introduces him to the Western Mountain."

True loyalty is rewarded. A spiritual bond is formed.

Original: 拘系之,乃从维之。王用亨于西山。