13.mycal8 -- Fellowship with Men
Hexagram 13: Fellowship with Men (Tong Ren)
The Oracle
Structure
- Lower Trigram: Li (Fire, Radiance).
- Upper Trigram: Qian (Heaven, Force).
Judgment
- Fellowship with men in the open brings success.
- It is beneficial to cross the great water.
- Perseverance of the superior man furthers growth and unity.
The Image
- Heaven together with fire symbolizes fellowship.
- The superior man organizes the clans and makes clear distinctions between things.
Interpretation: Fellowship Beyond Boundaries
Hexagram 13 calls for the cultivation of fellowship that transcends familial and cultural boundaries, highlighting the importance of universal connection. It encourages forming alliances based on shared values and mutual respect, fostering harmony in a diverse world.
This can be compared to Plato's Allegory of the Cave, where individuals must step beyond the shadows of their limited experiences to discover the broader truths of the world. Likewise, limiting relationships to one's immediate circle restricts growth and understanding. The superior man, however, seeks connections that broaden perspectives and foster inclusivity.
Lessons for Fellowship
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Extending Fellowship
Fellowship should not be confined to those who are familiar or similar. True connection requires reaching out to others, even when they differ in background, culture, or beliefs. Such openness enhances understanding and adaptability, much like embracing diverse tools and traditions (e.g., learning both chopsticks and forks). -
Guiding with Clarity
The superior man must lead with discernment, organizing and uniting people while respecting distinctions. This leadership fosters trust and cooperation, making it possible to address collective challenges. -
Universal Brotherhood
Fellowship in this context embodies the principle of universal brotherhood. It is about overcoming differences, inconsistencies, and prejudices, striving instead to unite for the greater good.
Service as a Path to Unity
“To serve is to serve.” Fellowship is rooted in service to others, a commitment to uplifting the collective well-being. By extending oneself to others with integrity and perseverance, individuals contribute to the formation of a harmonious community.
This interpretation of Hexagram 13 provides a guide for living with purpose and unity. It invites us to step beyond our comfort zones, seek knowledge, and connect with others in meaningful ways. In doing so, we contribute not only to personal growth but to the betterment of the world around us.
Karcher, S. and Ritesema, R. (1995). I Ching: The Classic Chinese Oracle of Change [The First Complete Translation with Concordance]
Legge, James (2012). The I Ching: The Book of Changes (Sacred Books of China: The Book of Changes)
Reifler, S. (1974) I Ching: The World's Oldest and Most Revered System of Fortune Telling
Van Over, R. (1971), I Ching
Wilhelm, R., and Baynes. C.F. (1967). The I Ching, or, Book of Changes (Bollingen Series XIX)
Wilhelm, Hellmut and Richard Wilhelm (1995). Understanding the I Ching
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