The Meaning of Hexagram #31

We are all interconnected and we all affect each other's lives. Hexagram number 31 symbolizes the power each of us has to support one another, change and charm one another. This is a time to cooperate and connect. The deeper and broader meaning of relationships comes into play as one explores the ways that friends and lovers change each other. This will be a time when you easily bring someone new into your life. You can understand your lover/partner/co-worker by studying them and their movements. Win their approval with your loyalty and steadfast vision.

NOTE: Looking for answers about how I Ching hexagram #31, "Lake over Mountain", applies to questions about dating, marriage and romantic issues? See our special Love I Ching interpretation for hexagram #31

Changing Lines in Hexagram #31

Changes in Line 1

"Watching the Walk"

Observing how another individual walks through their life can teach all you need to know about the situation at hand. Watch how others walk, think, behave, breathe, eat. This will help you discern who is, and who is not, a worthy partner.

Changes in Line 2

"Observing the Calves"

This line means that anyone with a poor intention will walk with a poor stride, and they may cause trouble for you. What is the motive behind someone's foot work? Know it well before you connect with them.

Changes in Line 3

"Observing the Thighs"

This line is a reminder that our changing moods influence our movements. Don't follow someone blindly. Be sensitive and gentle toward the shifting emotions in yourself and others

Changes in Line 4

"Letting the Heart Influence"

The true and quiet power of one's own inner heart and nature ensures the best influence upon others. Be true, firm and loving in yourself and there will be good fortune.

Changes in Line 5

"Patting Yourself on the Back"

If we cannot influence ourselves, we cannot produce positive change in others. Growth starts from within. Cheer others on by way of cheering yourself on first. Your attitude toward yourself determines your attitude toward others

Changes in Line 6

"Being Real"

This is a time when sincerity is extremely powerful. Notice how you talk and how others talk. Always remember that spoken words are potent and influential

The Trigrams Inside Hexagram #31

Hexagram #31 is made of two 3-line trigrams layered on top of one another. The lower three lines of hexagram #31 make up the trigram for Mountain, while the upper three lines make up the trigram for Lake.

NOTE: A quick rule of thumb is that the hexagram's upper trigram references external energies, while the lower trigram references internal energies.

Hexagram #31's Lower Trigram of Mountain

The looming and majestic trigram of the mountain represents stillness and something immobile. The trigram of mountain is powerful, silent and eternal. Simultaneously, its effect is calming and non-combative. The trigram of mountain may also represent a 'third son' or the direction of northeast.

Hexagram #31's Upper Trigram of Lake

The blissful trigram representing the lake symbolizes happiness and clarity of thought and communication. Blissful tranquility is referenced here, along with a sense of calm and devotion. The blissful Lake may also point to a 'third daughter' or the map direction west.

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #31

A note on iFate's I Ching translation: This is not a direct translation of the original "Book of Changes" from 1000 BC. While multiple translations of the original text are available, they include many archaic references and can be difficult to understand for 21st century readers. iFate uses our own modern rewritings (two different editions) of the "Book of Changes" which makes interpreting I Ching readings far simpler. For iFate's additional contemporary re-writing of the original text, see our "Love I Ching" translation.