61. Inner Truth
Zhōng Fú — Inner Truth / Sincerity
Trigrams
The Judgment
Inner Truth. Pigs and fishes. Good fortune. It furthers one to cross the great water. Perseverance furthers.
The Image
Wind above lake — the wind stirs the surface of the lake. Inner truth reaches even pigs and fishes — the most difficult to influence. The wise person discusses criminal cases in order to delay executions.
Interpretation
Inner truth has the power to reach and transform even the most resistant. When you operate from genuine sincerity, your influence extends to places that force and cleverness cannot reach. The hexagram mentions pigs and fishes — the most obtuse and unreachable creatures — to emphasize that true sincerity penetrates everywhere. Be authentic, be empathetic, and trust that your inner truth will communicate itself.
Advice
Operate from genuine sincerity and inner truth. Don't try to manipulate or force — let your authenticity speak for itself. Even the most resistant will be reached by true sincerity. Be empathetic and understanding.