The Meaning of I Ching Hexagram 31: Influence

The I Ching, also known as the Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese divination text and one of the oldest books in the world. It is composed of 64 hexagrams, each consisting of six lines, which provide guidance and insight into different aspects of life. In this blog post, we will delve into the meaning of Hexagram 31: Influence.

Overview

Hexagram 31 is formed by the trigrams Water (☵) over Mountain (☶). Water symbolizes the flow of emotions, while Mountain represents stability and immovability. The combination of these trigrams in Hexagram 31 signifies the influence of emotions on our actions and decisions, and how it can impact our relationships and interactions with others.

The Image

The image associated with Hexagram 31 is that of a mountain standing tall above a lake. The lake represents emotions and the mountain represents stability. The image suggests that emotions should not be allowed to sway or control us, but should be used as a source of strength and support in our lives.

The Judgment

The Judgment of Hexagram 31 provides further insight into its meaning. It states:

Influence. Success. Perseverance furthers. To take a maiden to wife brings good fortune.

This Judgment emphasizes the positive nature of influence and its potential for success. It suggests that by employing perseverance and staying true to our principles, we can harness the power of influence and use it to our advantage. Additionally, it mentions the importance of partnerships and relationships, indicating that forming strong alliances can lead to good fortune.

The Lines

Hexagram 31 consists of six lines, each of which holds its own meaning and contributes to the overall interpretation of this hexagram. Let’s explore the individual meanings of each line:

Line 1

The first line suggests that one should act responsibly when utilizing influence. It advises staying humble and not exploiting one’s position of power.

Line 2

This line reminds us that true influence comes from genuine connections with others. It encourages cultivating relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

Line 3

Line 3 warns against blindly following the influence of others. It advises examining the motives and intentions of those we seek to be influenced by, ensuring they align with our own values.

Line 4

This line indicates that influence should be used for the greater good. It emphasizes the importance of ethical choices and the impact they can have on the world around us.

Line 5

Line 5 signifies the potential for great achievements through the proper use of influence. It encourages taking bold steps and making a lasting impact on society.

Line 6

The final line warns against becoming too controlling or manipulative in one’s use of influence. It advises finding a balance between assertiveness and flexibility.

Conclusion

Hexagram 31, Influence, presents a powerful message about the impact of emotions on our actions and relationships. It emphasizes the importance of using influence wisely, staying true to our principles, and considering the greater good in all our endeavors. By embodying these qualities, we have the potential to wield influence positively and bring about success in our personal and professional lives.

Remember, the I Ching is a tool for guidance and self-reflection. While Hexagram 31 provides insights, it is essential to interpret its meaning in the context of your own life situation. Use it as a source of inspiration and consider seeking additional interpretations from reputable sources to gain a comprehensive understanding.