31. Xián 咸

Above is the trigram Dui (Lake), below is the trigram Gen (Mountain). The metaphorical image of this hexagram is a Lake on a Mountain. The foundation of the Lake is emptiness, the foundation of the Mountain is height. The ability to be empty while being high is the image of Empathy. The wise ruler, observing this, realizes that if there is no emptiness on the Mountain, there can be no Lake: and if there is no emptiness in the human heart – consciousness, it cannot feel (perceive) objects and other people. Therefore, by emptying within yourself what you have, you gain an addition (profit, benefit) from others." Remember, you can only perceive another person if there is space inside you for them. New knowledge comes only if you have already shared your existing knowledge with other people. We need others both as a teacher and as a student, and the image of inner emptiness is used here in a positive sense, there is space inside that can be filled with new information, knowledge, feeling of another person.
Also, metaphorically, this hexagram can serve as harmony in a couple man-woman or teacher-student. When partners, devoid of selfishness and prejudice, balance the extremes of their Yin and Yang natures for each other, they embark on a path of mutual development and support.
Mutual attraction usually arises between two people who have recognized similar traits and complementary qualities in each other. For the attraction to turn into courtship and subsequent union, tenderness and loyalty are needed.
Xian denotes the energy and stimulation of a new love connection, as well as devotion and the joy of newlyweds. The road before us is open, and great blessings come into our lives. In our relationships, a successful marriage is indicated, which will soon result in children. Similarly, in affairs, everything is very favorable: people work harmoniously, and success and encouragement are not far off.