I-Ching Hexagram 17
隨 Following
Also known as Adapting
Moving with the current rather than against it. The hexagram counsels intelligent adaptation — not sycophancy — and a willingness to rest when the time is for rest.
following · adaptation · flexibility
The Story
A boatwright wished to cross a strong river. Instead of fighting the current, he set his oar lightly, angled his hull, and let the river carry him half a league downstream. He arrived earlier than those who rowed straight and exhausted themselves. "I did not surrender to the river," he said. "I used what was already going where I was going." Those who learn to follow well are not weak; they are the ones who notice where power is already flowing, and spend their own strength on small, decisive adjustments. Stubborn against the current is the cousin of drowning.
The Judgment
Supreme success. Perseverance furthers. No blame.
The Image
Thunder in the middle of the lake: the image of following. Thus the superior person at nightfall goes indoors for rest and recuperation.
Interpretation
Moving with the current rather than against it. The hexagram counsels intelligent adaptation — not sycophancy — and a willingness to rest when the time is for rest. To lead others, one must first know how to follow what is right.
Trigrams
The Six Lines
- First (Bottom) The standard is changing. Perseverance brings good fortune. To go out the door in company produces deeds. When one's position shifts, meet others on their ground; work gets done.
- Second If one clings to the small boy, one loses the strong man. Choose whom to follow with care; the lesser attachment crowds out the greater.
- Third If one clings to the strong man, one loses the small boy. Through following one finds what one seeks. It furthers one to remain persevering. Every choice is a loss; be clear what has been chosen.
- Fourth Following creates success. Perseverance brings misfortune. To go one's way with sincerity brings clarity. How could there be blame in this? Followers gained by charisma become a liability; walk your path and let loyalty find you.
- Fifth Sincere in the good. Good fortune. Loyal to a genuine principle, not a personality.
- Sixth (Top) He meets with firm allegiance and is still further bound. The king introduces him to the Western Mountain. Recognition at the highest level for one who has followed rightly.