13. Fellowship with Others
Tóng Rén — Fellowship / Community
Trigrams
The Judgment
Fellowship with Others in the open. Success. It furthers one to cross the great water. The perseverance of the superior person furthers.
The Image
Heaven above fire — the flame rises toward heaven, seeking the like. People gather around a shared vision, illuminated by common purpose.
Interpretation
True fellowship is built on shared principles, not private agreements. This hexagram calls for open association — gathering people around a common vision in broad daylight, not in back rooms. The fellowship that succeeds is the one that includes anyone who shares the cause, regardless of personal ties. If you are forming a group, a partnership, or a community, make your criteria principled rather than personal.
Advice
Seek fellowship based on shared values and open association. Don't form exclusive cliques — be inclusive of anyone who shares your vision. Collaboration and community will carry you further than solo effort.