Hexagram 13

Tóng Rén 同人

Upper · Qián (Heaven) | Lower · Lí (Fire)

fellowship · cooperation · shared purpose · community · open communication · unity

What does Hexagram 13 mean?

Hexagram 13, Tóng Rén (同人), is about fellowship, cooperation, and shared purpose. When people gather with genuine shared purpose rather than selfish motives, they find success and can accomplish great undertakings.

The Judgment

Union of men in open country brings progress and success; crossing great waters proves advantageous.

When people gather with genuine shared purpose rather than selfish motives, they find success and can accomplish great undertakings. The key is moving beyond narrow circles into broader fellowship, where honest communication and common ideals bind people together.

The Lines

First Nine (初九)

Union of men just issuing from his gate; no error.

Opening yourself to connection without prejudice creates no fault. Begin by welcoming others with an unguarded heart.

Second Six (六二)

Union of men in relation with his kindred; occasion for regret.

Limiting fellowship to one faction or family circle leads to narrow vision and regret. Expand beyond your immediate circle.

Third Nine (九三)

Arms hidden in thick grass, atop a high mound; for three years makes no demonstration.

Attempting to unite through deception or hidden schemes prevents progress for a long time. Authenticity is essential.

Fourth Nine (九四)

Mounted on the city wall; does not proceed to attack. Good fortune.

Restraint and patience bring better results than force. Sometimes the wisest choice is to hold back and seek reconciliation.

Fifth Nine (九五)

Union of men first wails and cries out, then laughs; great host conquers and meets together.

Genuine solidarity overcomes temporary hardship and conflict, ultimately bringing joy and reunion. Persist through difficulty.

Sixth Nine (上九)

Union of men in the suburbs; no occasion for repentance.

When fellowship is grounded in pure intention rather than worldly gain, there is no regret. Seek connection for its own sake.

How to read changing lines →

Hexagram 13 FAQ

What does Hexagram 13 mean for career?

Collaboration with colleagues who share your vision will unlock significant achievement. Expand your professional network and engage with people from different backgrounds and expertise. What feels difficult alone becomes manageable when pursued with aligned partners. Cultivate a shared vision with your team.

What does Hexagram 13 mean for love and relationships?

You may find meaningful connection with someone who shares your core values and interests. Authentic communication and genuine empathy deepen bonds. If you are already in a relationship, strengthen it through shared activities and mutual understanding. Look for partners who inspire you to grow.

What does Hexagram 13 mean for study and personal growth?

Joining study groups or learning communities will accelerate your progress. Teaching and learning from peers is far more effective than solitary effort. Seek out friends with diverse perspectives and engage in open dialogue to broaden your understanding and challenge your assumptions.

What does Hexagram 13 mean for business and money?

Partnership and collaboration are central to success now. Rather than trying to do everything alone, build a team with specialists in different areas. Establish clear shared goals and operate with transparency; synergy emerges when all parties are genuinely invested in the common purpose.

What should I be careful about with Hexagram 13?

Alliances formed purely for personal gain will not endure. Ground your cooperation in authentic shared values and genuine common good. Avoid cliquish thinking and closed-minded group loyalty, as these patterns stifle growth and limit your potential. Seek fellowship based on principle, not convenience.

What if Hexagram 13 has changing lines?

Read the line statement for each changing line above. With two or more changing lines, Zhu Xi’s rules decide which text leads the reading.