Influence
Lake over mountain, the image of mutual attraction between complementary forces.
Influence works through perseverance. Taking a maiden to wife brings good fortune.
Lake on the mountain, the image of influence. The superior person opens to receive others.
In plain terms: Hexagram 31, "Influence", is one of the 64 symbols in the I Ching — an ancient Chinese book you consult for guidance, a bit like asking a wise advisor. Its core message: lake over mountain, the image of mutual attraction between complementary forces..
Modern Interpretation
An influence hexagram about the mutual attraction that arises naturally between complementary forces. Lake meets mountain; receptive meets stable. The classical counsel is that influence at this level works through openness rather than effort; the receptive partner wins through receiving rather than seeking. In modern terms this is the natural pull of compatible people, the right time for partnership, the openness to be moved by another. The hexagram is famous for its association with marriage and lasting union.
Application by Life Domain
Open to be moved. The relationship at this stage works through receptivity rather than effort.
The partnership is right; commit. The natural pull is reliable here.
Yes, commit. The attraction is structural, not transient.
Practice openness without grasping. The right things move you when you are open.
The Trigrams of This Hexagram
Upper: Dui (兑)
Lake, the Joyous, openness and exchange. In Five Element terms: Yin Metal.
Lower: Gen (艮)
Mountain, Keeping Still, stillness and limit. In Five Element terms: Yang Earth.
Other Hexagrams
Browse other hexagrams in the I Ching sequence.