Hexagram 4
Upper · Gèn (Mountain) | Lower · Kǎn (Water)
Education · ignorance · learning · beginner's mind · mentorship · enlightenment
Hexagram 4, Méng (蒙), is about education, ignorance, and learning. Méng, the hexagram of youthful inexperience, brings growth when approached with sincerity.
"Progress and success; he comes and seeks me, not I him."
Méng, the hexagram of youthful inexperience, brings growth when approached with sincerity. The seeker must come forward with genuine desire to learn; the teacher responds to that earnest call. Repeated, insincere requests will not be answered. Holding to what is right and true brings advantage.
"Dispelling ignorance; use discipline to remove the chains of the mind."
Clearing away confusion requires firm guidance and breaking old patterns. However, if you persist in harsh methods alone, regret will follow. Balance correction with compassion.
"Forbearance with the ignorant brings good fortune; receive even the wisdom of the humble."
A patient, humble heart that learns from all—even those seemingly beneath you—creates lasting benefit. You become a steady guide for others.
"Do not take a woman whose emblem this is; she abandons herself at the sight of wealth."
Beware of being swayed by surface appeal or material temptation. Yielding to every impulse without integrity leads nowhere good. Stay true to your values.
"Bound in chains of ignorance; regret will come."
Refusing to learn and clinging to stubbornness traps you. Growth stops when you reject guidance. Open yourself to new understanding.
"The simple youth brings good fortune."
A pure, humble heart eager to learn is the greatest strength. Keep your beginner's mind; sincere effort and openness lead to real growth.
"Striking the ignorant—do not injure him; ward off harm instead."
Teaching through force alone becomes cruelty. True education guides without crushing the spirit. Gentleness and wisdom work better than severity.
This is a season for learning and skill-building. Seek out mentors and teachers who can guide you; do not be embarrassed by what you do not yet know. Your willingness to grow and adapt will open doors. Focus on mastering fundamentals before pursuing advancement.
Sincerity and openness are your greatest assets. If you are new to love, approach it with a humble, genuine heart—your authenticity will be attractive. Listen to your partner and be willing to learn about them. Avoid being swayed by surface charm or material appeal; stay grounded in what feels true.
Now is the ideal time to study and develop yourself. Ask questions freely; there is no shame in not knowing. Find good teachers and resources, and commit to learning step by step. Your beginner's mind is an advantage—use it fully.
Do not rush into ventures without preparation. Seek advice from experienced people in your field and learn the landscape thoroughly before investing. Consider mentorship programs or partnerships that provide guidance. Hasty action will lead to costly mistakes.
Arrogance and stubbornness will block your progress. Avoid the trap of thinking you already know everything; stay humble and curious. At the same time, do not be so timid that you never ask for help. Speak up, seek guidance, and remain open to correction—this balance is essential.
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.
Original English translation by James Legge, 1882 (Public Domain). Editorial adaptation © Yijing.