Hexagram Analysis

I Ching Hexagram 31 : 咸 Hsien / Influence (Wooing)

The hexagram's title connotes universality, generality, and figuratively, influence and stimulation. Its upper trigram is Joyousness, while its lower trigram is Stillness. The lower, rigid trigram persistently and quietly stimulates the upper, weaker trigram, which responds with cheer and joy. The lower trigram represents the youngest child, while the upper trigram represents the youngest daughter, symbolizing the universal attraction between genders. In courtship, the initiating party must place themselves below the other. The first part of the book focuses on the hexagrams of heaven and earth, the foundation of all existence, while the second part focuses on the hexagrams of courtship and marriage, the foundation of all social relationships.

The Judgment

The power of influence and the drive for success are strengthened by perseverance. Forming a partnership with a life companion brings about positive outcomes.

The forceful element resides below, while the gentle element rests above. This creates a magnetic pull between them, leading to their union. Success is born from this attraction, as all achievements stem from the power of mutual allure. By finding inner stillness and experiencing external joy in moderation, one can prevent excess and maintain balance. This is why the advice to "persevere" is added, as it is the act of persistence that distinguishes between seduction and courtship. In the latter, the strong individual takes a humble position and shows respect for the weaker party. This law of attraction is universal, as seen in the way heaven and earth draw towards each other, giving rise to all living beings. The wise use this power of attraction to influence others and bring peace to the world. By observing the forces of attraction, we can understand the essence of all things in the universe.

The Image

The mountain lake symbolizes influence, and the wise person invites others to approach them by being open and receptive.

A mountain crowned with a lake is invigorated by the moisture it receives. Its unique advantage lies in its summit, which is not a towering peak but rather a sunken basin. This serves as a reminder that the mind should remain open and humble, receptive to wise counsel. Those who believe they know everything better than anyone else will find themselves quickly abandoned by their advisors.