# Hexagram 31 · Xián (咸) · Mutual Attraction

> **GuaCard #31 (Flow)**: Real connection begins with a sincere response. / 真正的联结，始于真诚的回应。

This hexagram is about mutual influence and attraction, and often concerns relationships. Real connection comes from sincere response rather than calculated pursuit. Meet others with openness and humility, and the bond can grow naturally.

_Editorial summary_

## Judgment

咸：亨。利貞。取女吉。

Hsien indicates that, (on the fulfilment of the conditions implied in it), there will be free course and success. Its advantageousness will depend on the being firm and correct, (as) in marrying a young lady. There will be good fortune.

## Line 1

初六：咸其拇。

The first line, divided, shows one moving his great toes.

## Line 2

六二：咸其腓，凶，居吉。

The second line, divided, shows one moving the calves of his leg. There will be evil. If he abide (quiet in his place), there will be good fortune.

## Line 3

九三：咸其股，執其隨，往吝。

The third line, undivided, shows one moving his thighs, and keeping close hold of those whom he follows. Going forward (in this way) will cause regret.

## Line 4

九四：貞吉悔亡，憧憧往來，朋從爾思。

The fourth line, undivided, shows that firm correctness which will lead to good fortune, and prevent all occasion for repentance. If its subject be unsettled in his movements, (only) his friends will follow his purpose.

## Line 5

九五：咸其脢，无悔。

The fifth line, undivided, shows one moving the flesh along the spine above the heart. There will be no occasion for repentance.

## Line 6

上六：咸其輔，頰，舌。

The sixth line, divided, shows one moving his jaws and tongue.

## Sources

- [周易 · 中文原文（Ruism Digital Library）](https://ruism.org/library/classic-of-changes/31#31.1)
- [James Legge, The Yî King (1882), Sacred Books of the East, XVI](https://ruism.org/library/classic-of-changes/31#31.1)