Hexagram 4：Youthful Folly
The Meaning of Hexagram 4
Youthful Folly, addresses the challenges of learning, emphasising openness and humility. It describes the relationship between the wise Sage and the learner, highlighting the need for receptiveness and an open mind for wisdom. This hexagram stresses the naturalness of mistakes in learning and the importance of a humble approach to guidance, advocating for inner reflection and a genuine, ego-free journey towards understanding.
Changing Lines in Hexagram 4
Changes in Line 1
You may want to correct another for a perceived wrongdoing, but take care that the punishment fits the crime. While it’s true that karma evens the score with those who spurn natural laws, persons in authority offend the same natural laws if they let a transgression go unpunished. Be firm, but remember that the goal of effective punishment is the re-establishment of equilibrium, not revenge.
Changes in Line 2
A fresh innocence brings good fortune. A lack of preconceptions, combined with a respect for life’s teachers, brings success to endeavors. When you maintain a childlike openness of mind, you become a magnet for fresh insights and gain unique glimpses into the nature of things.
Changes in Line 3
Clinging to fantasies leads to humiliation. In a state of hopeful excitement, it is easy to entangle oneself in magical thinking and fantastic dreams. From these entanglements, there are only two ways out: awakening to reality or suffering humiliation. The choice is yours.
Changes in Line 4
Devotion to the rich, powerful, or beautiful is dangerous! A weak person can easily lose his or her individuality in trying to manipulate, woo, or win the respect of others. Like a flippant young woman who throws herself at a millionaire, it is undignified to offer oneself without reserve to anyone. Better to let the other—your superior, your desired lover, your investor, whomever—come at least part of the way down the road to meet you.
Changes in Line 5
Treating foolishness kindly can actually bring good fortune. Be patient with the ignorant. If you are around children, accept their shortcomings. Give them a good education and be there when they need you; and one day, they will lead. Treat your associates compassionately, especially if they have not yet achieved what you have. Inner strength combined with outer reserve develops true leadership.
Changes in Line 6
Sustainable progress requires some degree of order. Training begins with discipline. It is the nature of youth to stumble into error through carelessness or playfulness; similar problems can plague childish adults too. While discipline is essential to achieve success, steer clear of boring routines or extreme regulations that choke creativity.
