I Ching hexagram
4. Inexperience
蒙Méng
Water over Mountain
Also called Youthful Folly, The Symbol of Covering, Immaturity, Uncultivated Growth, Youth, Acquiring Experience, Youthful Ignorance, Enveloping, Folly, Darkness "Often the I Ching uses this hexagram to show us that we should not be asking this question." -- D.F. Hook
Hexagram 4, Inexperience (蒙 Méng) is formed by Water over Mountain. It is also known as Youthful Folly, The Symbol of Covering, Immaturity, Uncultivated Growth, Youth, Acquiring Experience, Youthful Ignorance, Enveloping. The judgment is James Legge. The six lines are R.L. Wing — the same texts used in a reading on this site.
The judgment
James Legge
Inexperience means progress and success. I do not seek the inexperienced youth, but he seeks me. When he shows the sincerity proper for divination, I instruct him. If he asks two or three times, that is troublesome, and I do not instruct the troublesome. Firm correctness brings advantage.
The six lines
R.L. Wing · line 1 is at the bottom
- Line 1Yin
A little discipline is necessary here. There is not enough seriousness of attitude concerning the work to be done, and therefore the atmosphere is not conducive to proper growth. Yet, keep in mind that too many restrictions may lead to uncreative development. Apply just enough guidelines to keep things moving in the proper directi
- Line 2Yang
The person in this position has indeed developed in himself a true appreciation of humanity in all of its folly and beauty. Such a person can lead others with wisdom, compassion, and inspiration, and attain all the success attributed to the great and wise historical leaders.
- Line 3Yin
You are in danger of throwing yourself away in a foolish attempt to be close to that which you fervently desire. Without strength of character and individuality you can accomplish nothing meaningful in life.
- Line 4Yin
Your fantasies and obsessions will consume you. Your attitude is unrealistic in regard to what is really going on in your life and therefore you cannot be instructed. You may ultimately be saved by experiencing fully the humiliation that follows.
- Line 5Yin
An attitude of innocent acceptance in regard to seeking advice from others will be rewarded. Good fortune.
- Line 6Yang
An inexperienced person may need to be punished for his mistakes in order to put him on the right path. Punishment is by no means an end in itself, but is useful only in preventing further transgressions and maintaining a progressive attitude.
Use this hexagram in a reading
These are the same judgment and lines that appear when hexagram 4 comes up in a cast. Ask a question to see which lines change, or keep a journal of your readings.