Hexagram 61 · 中孚

Wind moves above the lake, reaching the water through a subtle response. Yielding lines at the center leave an open interior, while firm lines hold central places in the trigrams. Zhong Fu means inner trust or sincerity. Its image concerns an influence credible because inner intention and outward conduct agree.

1. Line 1 · 初九

   虞吉，有它不燕。

   Careful preparation brings good fortune. Having another aim leaves no peace.

   Nine in the first place is yang with an intention not yet diverted. The Small Image values that steadiness, like entering a collaboration with clear reasons instead of quietly pursuing an unrelated advantage.

2. Line 2 · 九二

   鳴鶴在陰，其子和之，我有好爵，吾與爾靡之。

   A crane calls in the shade; its young answers. I have a fine cup, and I will share it with you.

   Nine in the second place is central yang whose sincere call evokes response. The Small Image roots the answer in the heart, like a friend's unforced invitation creating warmth without a public display of closeness.

3. Line 3 · 六三

   得敵，或鼓或罷，或泣或歌。

   Meeting a counterpart, now one beats the drum, now stops; now weeps, now sings.

   Six in the third place is yin out of position, with emotion governed by an external counterpart. The Small Image notes this instability, like letting every brief message from a partner determine the whole day's mood.

4. Line 4 · 六四

   月幾望，馬匹亡，无咎。

   The moon is nearly full. The paired horse is lost. No blame.

   Six in the fourth place is fitting yin moving beyond a former equal attachment toward responsibility above. The Small Image describes that separation, like setting aside a private alliance to serve an agreed public duty fairly.

5. Line 5 · 九五

   有孚攣如，无咎。

   Sincerity binds closely. No blame.

   Nine in the fifth place is central and correct yang uniting others through trust. The Small Image credits its proper station, like a leader whose consistent decisions make cooperation possible without repeated demands for loyalty.

6. Line 6 · 上九

   翰音登于天，貞凶。

   The winged call rises to heaven. Constancy brings misfortune.

   Nine at the top is yang extending its proclamation beyond practical substance. The Small Image asks how it could last, like an impressive declaration of values that remains unsupported by daily conduct.

Bring intention and conduct into agreement. Listen before judging, make promises you can honor, and let trust grow through ordinary evidence.

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