XXXI. (The trigram representing) a mountain and above it that for (the waters of) a marsh form Hsien. The superior man, in accordance with this, keeps his mind free from pre-occupation, and open to receive (the influences of) others.

1 'He moves his great toe:' his mind is set on what is beyond (himself).

2 Though 'there would be evil; yet, if he abide (quiet) in his place, there will be good fortune:' through compliance (with the circumstances of his condition and place) there will be no injury.

3 'He moves his thighs:' he still does not (want to) rest in his place. His will is set on 'following others:' what he holds in his grasp is low.

4 'Firm correctness will lead to good fortune, and prevent all occasion for repentance:' there has not yet been any harm from (a selfish wish to) influence. 'He is unsettled in his movements:' (his power to influence) is not yet either brilliant or great.

5 'He (tries to) move the flesh along the spine above the heart:' his aim is trivial.

6 'He moves his jaws and tongue:' he (only) talks with loquacious mouth.