Xian, six at the topHexagram 31, line 6 · Xian (Mutual Influence) · changing to 33
The line
In plain wordsThe feeling is in the jaws, cheeks and tongue. Trying to move people with your mouth alone, with nothing solid behind it.
The Image commentary on this line
咸其輔，頰，舌，滕口說也。
"The influence is in the jaws, cheeks and tongue": he lets his mouth run with talk.
The small Image commentary is the earliest explanation of the line texts. It usually explains a line from its position: where it stands, whether it holds the center, and which line answers it.
Verdict
慎Proceed with care. The text gives no verdict, but the picture holds an obstacle and a warning. Slow down and watch the point it warns about.
How to read good fortune, misfortune, regret, humiliation and no blame →
Asking about work, love or money
- Work
- Don't rely on talk alone to win over your boss and clients. However fine your words, without real results they won't hold up. Say less, and show more of what you have actually done.
- Love
- However many sweet words you say, without real action they won't move anyone or keep anyone. Make fewer promises with your mouth and do more that is real; and don't take every pretty word from the other person at face value either.
- Money
- Don't be swayed by opportunities that are talked up to the skies, and don't try to raise money on smooth talk alone. Without something real behind it, however good the words, trouble will follow.
This is how to read it when this is the only changing line. With several changing lines, first see which text governs; for the hexagram as a whole, see Xian.
Line position
A yin line in a yin place: it is in its proper place. Its partner is the third line, which is its opposite, so the two answer each other.
Top place: the end of the matter. What reaches its limit turns. Know when to stop.
When you get this line
If this is the only changing line in your cast (three inscribed sides, old yin), this line is your answer. The primary hexagram is Xian (Mutual Influence); when this line changes it becomes Dun (Retreat): hexagram 31 changing to 33.
Which text to read with several changing lines →
Resulting hexagram · Dun (Retreat)
It is time to withdraw. Withdraw in time and you will be fine.