Hexagram 17 and Mark 14:24

 

Hexagram 17 and Mark 14:24

Hexagram 17, Sui—“Following,” concerns choosing what or whom to follow. It teaches that successful following is not passive imitation; it requires sincerity, adaptability, correct timing, and loyalty to what is morally worthy.

Mark 14:24 records Jesus’ words at the Last Supper:

“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.”

Jesus presents His coming sacrifice as the foundation of a new covenant—a binding relationship between God and humanity established through His blood.

Where they connect

Both passages center on commitment to a trustworthy path.

Hexagram 17 teaches that a person should follow what is right rather than merely follow the crowd. Mark 14:24 identifies Christ’s self-giving sacrifice as the basis for Christian discipleship. In both cases, following involves trust, loyalty, and a willingness to leave behind purely self-directed living.

They also share the idea of influence through example. In Hexagram 17, worthy leadership inspires willing followers instead of demanding obedience through force. In Mark 14, Jesus leads through sacrifice. He does not merely command His disciples to serve; He gives Himself for others.

Both therefore suggest that authentic leadership moves people through character, integrity, and service.

Important differences

Hexagram 17 primarily offers guidance about human relationships, leadership, changing circumstances, and proper alignment. Its central question is:

What is worthy of being followed?

Mark 14:24 makes a specific theological declaration. Jesus is not simply offering wise guidance; He is explaining the meaning of His approaching death. His blood establishes the covenant and provides redemption “for many.”

Hexagram 17 emphasizes discerning the correct path. Mark 14:24 emphasizes the saving act of Christ as the foundation of that path.

Another difference concerns sacrifice. In Hexagram 17, following may require flexibility, humility, and disciplined loyalty. In Mark 14:24, sacrifice reaches its highest expression: Jesus willingly pours out His life for others.

Spiritual lesson

Together, these passages raise two connected questions:

Whom are you following?
What kind of leader are you becoming?

Hexagram 17 warns against following trends, personalities, or pressures without discernment. Mark 14:24 presents Jesus as a leader worthy of following because His authority is expressed through covenant love and self-sacrifice.

For the Christian, true following is therefore not blind obedience. It is a conscious response to Christ’s grace. Because He poured out His life for many, His followers are called to live with loyalty, humility, service, and concern for others.

Leadership insight

Hexagram 17 teaches that people follow leaders who understand timing and remain aligned with worthy principles. Mark 14:24 adds that the greatest leaders do not merely seek loyalty—they accept responsibility and make sacrifices for those they lead.

Combined message: Follow what is righteous, and lead in a way that makes righteousness visible through service.

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From: “God's Minute: A Book of 365 Daily Prayers Sixty Seconds Long for Home Worship” 

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