61 · Inner Truth (ZHŌNG FÚ)
Zhong Fu is trust that begins within and can be tested in action. The Judgment's piglet and fish stand for even the small and hidden receiving its care. The six lines move from undivided attention and an answering call through rivalry and wavering, then toward a chosen allegiance and trust that keeps a community connected. The final high cry warns that a loud reputation without substance cannot endure.
The judgment
Inner Truth: piglet and fish, auspicious. Beneficial to cross the great river; beneficial to be steadfast.
Classical commentary reads the piglet and fish as humble, hidden lives. Trust is credible when its care reaches beyond the powerful or visible. It can help people cross difficulty together, but trust without integrity is still unsafe.
Original Chinese text
中孚：豚魚吉，利涉大川，利貞。
The six lines
- 初九 · Line 1 — Focused care is auspicious; another attachment brings no ease.
Original Chinese
虞吉，有他不燕。
- 九二 · Line 2 — A crane calls in the shade; its young answers. I have a fine jue (cup or honor), and share it with you.
Original Chinese
鳴鶴在陰，其子和之。我有好爵，吾與爾靡之。
- 六三 · Line 3 — Meeting an opponent: now drum, now stop; now weep, now sing.
Original Chinese
得敵，或鼓或罷，或泣或歌。
- 六四 · Line 4 — The moon is nearly full; a horse's mate is lost: no blame.
Original Chinese
月幾望，馬匹亡，无咎。
- 九五 · Line 5 — Trust bound closely together: no blame.
Original Chinese
有孚攣如，无咎。
- 上九 · Line 6 — A winged cry climbs to heaven; persisting brings misfortune.
Original Chinese
翰音登于天，貞凶。