The 61st Hexagram of the I Ching: The Hexagram of Zhong Fu (Central Sincerity)
Zhong Fu (中孚), meaning “Central Sincerity,” refers to the inner quality of being gentle, while maintaining an outer appearance of strength and moderation. This balance brings joy to others and allows one’s influence to spread, much like the wind that can reach distant places and touch neighboring nations. “If one upholds integrity, whether dealing with pigs or fish, success is assured,” this implies that when integrity is practiced thoroughly, it extends even to the smallest creatures. “It is beneficial to cross large rivers,” symbolizing that traveling with integrity is like riding an empty boat across a river—it is smooth and unimpeded. Upholding integrity and staying true to the right path aligns with the will of Heaven.
Explanation from the Book “Duan Yi Tian Ji”
The hexagram Zhong Fu consists of Xun (巽) above and Dui (兑) below, forming a combination known as the “Ghosts of the Mountain” hexagram. Zhong Fu signifies loyalty and trust, and it is said to favor crossing great rivers, dispelling difficulties and obstacles.
Interpretation by the Northern Song Dynasty Scholar Shao Yong
True faith and sincerity: One who is genuine and trustworthy will succeed. With the help of like-minded individuals, plans will come to fruition. Those with evil intentions will face misfortune.
Interpretation by Taiwan’s Renowned Scholar Fu Pei Rong
- Fortune: Difficulties and challenges are inevitable, so caution is needed to avoid legal disputes.
- Wealth: Be cautious in your actions to prevent misfortune.
- Family: Risk of legal disputes; marriage may lead to conflicts.
- Health: No serious danger, but some worries may arise.
Traditional Interpretation of the Hexagram
This hexagram consists of two trigrams (Dui below, Xun above), forming a layered structure. “Fu” originally means “hatching,” referring to the precise timing of eggs hatching, symbolizing trustworthiness. The hexagram’s shape, solid on the outside and hollow on the inside, represents sincerity within the heart, which is why it is named Zhong Fu. This hexagram represents the fundamental principle of personal conduct.
The Symbolism of the Hexagram:
Zhong Fu represents the concept of sincerity. Wind blowing over the lake creates ripples, just as sincerity elicits a response from others, symbolizing resonance.
Fortune and Fate:
When one approaches all matters with sincerity (“cheng” – 诚) and conducts affairs with trust (“xin” – 信), success will follow. However, harboring deceitful thoughts will lead to misfortune.
Career:
With a sincere and trustworthy attitude toward one’s career, significant achievements can be reached, and development will proceed smoothly. It is important to adhere to the right principles and avoid complacency, as well as not to trust others too easily. A proud, isolated attitude will lead to failure in business.
Business:
Business will proceed well if it aligns with market needs. With caution and an emphasis on trust and high-quality service, the outcome will be favorable. Even when taking risks or facing difficulties, the business will remain successful.
Seeking Fame:
Achieving fame requires a foundation of moral cultivation, continuous learning, and self-improvement. One must not be afraid of difficulties but should push forward with determination.
Marriage and Relationships:
In relationships, mutual sincerity will lead to happiness and fulfillment.
Decision-Making:
Integrity should be the cornerstone of one’s personal conduct. Treat others with sincerity, uphold systems and principles, remain humble and harmonious, and this will help overcome any challenges. Even if problems arise, one can correct mistakes and improve. However, it is crucial to strengthen one’s ability to observe others and develop discernment to distinguish right from wrong.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of Zhong Fu Hexagram
Line Text:
Chun Jiu (初九): Yu ji, yǒu tā bù yàn. (预吉，有它不燕)
The meaning of this line is: It is expected to be auspicious. However, if other thoughts or distractions arise, tranquility will be lost.
When interpreting this line, remember:
- “The myriad flowers bloom, but it is not yet a full harvest. The thunder strikes, and all things respond.” This suggests that though there is potential for good fortune, it has not yet reached its peak. External forces (represented by thunder) stir things into motion.
- “The benefits of fame are within reach, yet patience is required.” Fame and success are close, but one must wait for the right moment.
- “The way leads to the green mountains, with peaks upon peaks.” This signifies that a path of virtue and integrity will lead to ever-greater achievements, with challenges along the way.
- “If one remains steadfast, joy will come to the door.” Focus and resolve will bring success.
- “If one has other intentions, peace and tranquility will be lost.” This emphasizes the need for a clear, undivided purpose.
- “The first signs of spring—bare branches begin to bloom.” Even the smallest signs of progress indicate potential for growth.
- “Concentration in purpose leads to success, while wavering intentions bring disaster.” This is a reminder to stay focused and avoid distractions in all endeavors.
Zhong Fu Hexagram First Line Changing to the Hexagram of “Wind and Water” (风水涣)
When the first line changes, it transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 59: Wind and Water (风水涣, Fēng Shuǐ Huàn). This hexagram is formed by the trigrams Kan (坎) below and Xun (巽) above, representing water and wind. Wind moves over water, stirring and spreading it, causing it to overflow. “Huàn” refers to dispersal or flowing away, symbolizing a situation where an organization or group may lose cohesion. The way to overcome this is through positive and proactive methods to restore order and overcome difficulties. It suggests the need for persistence and careful management to reverse a state of chaos or disintegration.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of Zhong Fu Hexagram
Line Text:
Jiu Er (九二): Míng hè zài yīn, qí zi hé zhī. (鸣鹤在阴，其子和之)
The meaning of this line is: A crane sings in the shadowed place, and its offspring respond in harmony. This suggests a moment of peaceful collaboration or an invitation for mutual understanding. It is a time of shared joy and harmony.
When interpreting this line, remember:
- “A meeting of winds and clouds, a moment of bright opportunity.” This suggests that timing is key, and seizing the right moment will lead to success.
- “Loyalty is as strong as gold and stone, and even a king can be restrained by it.” True sincerity is unshakable and has the power to influence even those in the highest positions.
- “True sincerity brings harmony inside and out; where can one not rest in peace?” With integrity and sincerity, peace and contentment will follow.
- “A sheep runs with joy, but does not look back; a monkey does not remain steady.” This implies that one should not be swayed by distractions or lose focus in moments of joy.
- “The bright moon hangs in the sky, a full circle of reunion.” Symbolizing completeness and fulfillment, it suggests harmony and the potential for success through unity.
- “The silver toad arrives, shining bright in the autumn clarity.” This refers to moments of great fortune that arrive in clarity and fullness, akin to a harvest moon.
Zhong Fu Hexagram Second Line Changing to the Hexagram of “Wind and Thunder” (风雷益)
When the second line changes, it transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 42: Wind and Thunder (风雷益, Fēng Léi Yì). This hexagram is formed by the trigrams Zhen (震) below and Xun (巽) above, representing thunder and wind. The combination of thunder and wind increases the power of both, suggesting that mutual assistance can lead to greater strength and benefits. This hexagram contrasts with Hexagram 41 (Decrease, 损), where energy is focused downward; here, the increase is upward, symbolizing the principle of giving and receiving mutual benefits.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of Zhong Fu Hexagram
Line Text:
Liu San (六三): Dé dí, huò gǔ huò bà, huò qì huò gē. (得敌，或鼓或罢，或泣或歌)
The meaning of this line is: One encounters a powerful enemy; one may either advance with drums of war, retreat in defeat, cry in fear, or sing in joy upon escaping danger. It represents a moment of intense challenge and fluctuation.
When interpreting this line, remember:
- “There is no real loss or gain in progress or retreat, as long as one’s heart remains steady.” Success or failure does not matter if one remains clear-headed and resilient.
- “Who can know the poison of delay? Life moves toward peaceful contentment.” Patience and clarity in decision-making are essential to overcoming obstacles and reaching peace.
- “Small things can accumulate to great results; in the face of danger, it may appear not dangerous.” Minor actions, when accumulated over time, can lead to great achievements. Even in a perilous situation, there is potential for growth and safety.
- “The person in the cloud raises their hand, climbing the heavenly ladder.” This refers to rising above challenges through persistence and grace, as if reaching new heights in one’s journey.
- “There are many obstacles and worries, yet there is joy in perseverance.” Life will always present challenges, but one’s reaction to them defines the outcome.
- “The situation may be chaotic, but it will eventually stop and calm down.” The turmoil will cease, and one must be patient until the right time arrives.
Zhong Fu Hexagram Third Line Changing to the Hexagram of “Wind and Heaven” (风天小畜)
When the third line changes, it transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 9: Wind and Heaven (风天小畜, Fēng Tiān Xiǎo Chù). This hexagram is formed by the trigrams Qián (乾) below and Xun (巽) above, representing heaven and wind. It symbolizes favorable conditions for growth, as wind and heaven work together to promote harmony and development. However, the power is still small, and one must wait until it is developed sufficiently before achieving great success. This is a time of nurturing and gradual progress, requiring patience and careful growth.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of Zhong Fu Hexagram
Line Text:
Liu Si (六四): Yuè jī wàng, mǎ pǐ wáng, wú jiù. (月几望，马匹亡，无咎)
The meaning of this line is: The moon is about to be full but has not yet reached its fullness. A good horse loses its match, but there is no fault or harm in this.
When interpreting this line, remember:
- “Virtue and achievements reach their peak; fame stands out from the crowd.” This signifies that one’s moral character and accomplishments will eventually lead to recognition and success.
- “Wind and clouds meet at the right time, and one ascends to the highest heavens.” With proper timing, one can reach the highest point of success, as if riding the winds of fortune.
- “One should not rush when in a low position; the time for action will come.” Patience is required when starting from a humble position. One must wait for the right moment to rise.
- “Achievements come too late; the flowers are frightened by the wind before dawn.” This suggests that timing is crucial. Delayed efforts may fail or not bear fruit as expected.
- “The emerald fades, and the beauty leans against the railing in sorrow, yearning for something new.” A period of decline or longing may arise, where one yearns for change or improvement.
- “One sighs frequently, seeing only the songbirds, but no people.” A feeling of loneliness or disappointment may accompany progress, as one finds little connection with others despite outward success.
Zhong Fu Hexagram Fourth Line Changing to the Hexagram of “Heaven and Lake” (天泽履)
When the fourth line changes, it transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 10: Heaven and Lake (天泽履, Tiān Zé Lǚ). This hexagram consists of Dui (兑) below and Qián (乾) above, symbolizing heaven and the lake. The lake represents the people, and heaven represents the ruler, showing a harmonious relationship between them. The phrase “履虎尾，不咥人” (Stepping on a tiger’s tail, but not biting) suggests a situation where caution must be exercised to avoid danger, but with proper action, there will be a favorable outcome. The hexagram symbolizes the need for steady, grounded progress. This line advises practical, careful steps forward, emphasizing steady advancement without overstepping boundaries.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of Zhong Fu Hexagram
Line Text:
Jiu Wu (九五): Yǒu fú luán rú, wú jiù. (有孚挛如，无咎)
The meaning of this line is: One possesses sincerity and uses it to connect the hearts of the people, drawing them together with great integrity, leading to no harm.
When interpreting this line, remember:
- “The heavy mountain rises in green peaks, and auspicious winds settle on the tree.” This indicates that great virtue will bring good fortune and establish firm foundations.
- “Those who inquire will see change and rise to great heights, honored like the giant turtle.” With integrity and sincerity, one can rise to success, much like the turtle in mythology, which symbolizes longevity and stability.
- “Pour a cup and raise your eyebrows in joy.” A moment of ease and happiness will follow, as one reaches the fruits of their labor.
- “When the time and place are right, act quickly and decisively.” It is important to act when the conditions align, as this is when great success can be achieved.
Zhong Fu Hexagram Fifth Line Changing to the Hexagram of “Mountain and Lake” (山泽损)
When the fifth line changes, it transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 41: Mountain and Lake (山泽损, Shān Zé Sǔn). This hexagram is formed by the trigrams Gen (艮) below and Dui (兑) above. Gen represents the mountain, and Dui represents the lake. The image of a large lake eroding the mountain’s base suggests that even the most solid foundations can be worn down over time. The hexagram advises caution in the balance between gains and losses, where too much gain can cause harm, and loss may also bring unexpected benefits. It encourages careful consideration when dealing with resources or governance, warning against excessive or unbalanced actions.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of Zhong Fu Hexagram
Line Text:
Shang Jiu (上九): Hàn yīn dēng yú tiān, zhēn xiōng. (翰音登于天，贞凶)
The meaning of this line is: The colorful pheasant, relying on its beautiful appearance, sings loudly and seeks to ascend to the heavens, yet it faces potential misfortune.
When interpreting this line, remember:
- “One should advance but not recklessly; old matters must be changed or adjusted.” Caution is necessary before making bold decisions. Avoid blind ambition and take time to reevaluate old habits or strategies.
- “The long river flows, a fishing rod waits for the catch.” Patience is key—success may take time, but it will come with careful waiting and effort.
- “Falling leaves renew, and the spring returns to the garden.” Renewal and change will happen; even in decline, there is the possibility of rebirth and new opportunities.
- “If one achieves the ultimate transformation, avoid becoming complacent in old age.” Achieving greatness is not the end—there is always the potential for further progress. Avoid stagnation after reaching success.
Zhong Fu Hexagram Sixth Line Changing to the Hexagram of “Water and Lake” (水泽节)
When the sixth line changes, it transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 60: Water and Lake (水泽节, Shuǐ Zé Jié). This hexagram consists of Dui (兑) below and Kan (坎) above, representing water and the lake. The image of water filling a lake but with limits suggests the necessity of maintaining boundaries and control. Excess can lead to overflow, while moderation ensures stability. Jié (节) represents regulation or moderation, and this hexagram emphasizes the importance of balance in all things. For individuals, nations, or even nature, moderation is the key to long-term stability and success.