Hexagram 31, Line 3

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line describes an influence that is unstable and misguided. The "thighs" symbolize movement and the urge to act, but they are not the seat of reason or will; they merely follow the direction of the body. To feel influence here signifies being swayed by restless moods, fleeting impulses, or the desire to simply be in motion. The phrase "holds fast to that which he follows" indicates a lack of independent judgment. Instead of leading from a place of inner conviction, the person is slavishly following someone else, a popular trend, or their own lower-level whims. The will is not free but is attached to an inferior or unworthy influence. Because the motivation is not grounded in the true self or a higher purpose, any forward action taken from this state will lead to "humiliation" (吝, lìn) — a situation of regret, embarrassment, and feeling stuck. It is a warning against impulsive action driven by reactivity rather than conscious choice.

Guidance for Action

Pause and reflect before you act. You are feeling a strong urge to move, to do something, to follow a course of action. However, this impulse is not coming from a place of clarity or wisdom. Examine your motivations carefully. Are you acting out of a fleeting mood, peer pressure, or the desire to imitate someone else? You are likely following an influence that is not worthy of you. Blindly proceeding now will lead to a situation you will regret. The best course of action is to practice stillness. Resist the urge to move. Wait until the restlessness subsides and you can connect with your own inner authority and make a decision from a place of centeredness and true purpose. Do not let your "thighs" decide for your "heart."

For Love & Relationships

In matters of love, this line warns against acting on infatuation or superficial attraction. You may feel a powerful urge to pursue someone or make a significant move in a relationship, but this feeling is likely based on a whim or a desire to keep up with others. You might be following the lead of a charismatic but unsuitable person, or perhaps you are being swayed by your friends' opinions about what you "should" do. Acting on this restless energy—by making a hasty confession, commitment, or breakup—will lead to embarrassment and regret. True connection (the theme of Hexagram 31) must be felt in the heart, not just in the restless energy of the moment. Step back and let the feelings mature to see if they are genuine or merely fleeting.

For Career & Business

This line points to a dangerous restlessness in your professional life. You may be tempted to chase a popular trend, switch jobs impulsively, or blindly follow a charismatic but potentially flawed mentor or leader. Your desire for action is not rooted in a solid strategy but in a reactive mood or the influence of your professional circle. Making a significant move now—launching a project, changing departments, or quitting your job—is ill-advised. It will likely lead to a misstep that causes you to lose face or get stuck in an unfavorable position. Ground yourself in your core competencies and long-term goals. Do not be swayed by office politics or what competitors are doing. Wait for clarity before making your next move.

For Financial Matters

This line is a strong warning against impulsive financial decisions driven by herd mentality or "FOMO" (Fear Of Missing Out). You are feeling the influence to act—perhaps to buy a hot stock you heard about, invest in a speculative trend, or make a large, unplanned purchase. However, this impulse is not based on sound research or a solid financial plan. You are "following" the market's mood or a "hot tip" from an unreliable source. Acting on this urge will lead to financial loss and regret ("humiliation"). Resist the temptation to make a move. Stick to your established financial strategy. True financial opportunity requires patience and independent judgment, not restless, reactive speculation.