Hexagram 61: Inner Truth

Wind over Lake'

Hexagram 61: Inner Truth

I. The Oracle

Hexagram 61 is known as Zhong Fu, or Center Returning. Other interpretations include Lower Truth and Central Return. The hexagram is composed of two trigrams. The lower trigram is Dui, symbolizing openness, swamps, or forests. The upper trigram is Xun, representing ground or wind.

A. The Judgment

1. Inner Truth: The essence of this hexagram speaks of profound truth within. It is symbolized by pigs and fishes, indicating good fortune. This suggests that embracing inner truth can lead to favorable outcomes and the courage to undertake significant endeavors, like crossing a great water.
2. Perseverance: The hexagram emphasizes the importance of perseverance, suggesting that persistence is beneficial in maintaining inner truth and achieving success.

B. The Image

1. Wind over Lake: This is the image associated with Inner Truth. It reflects the dynamics of wind moving over a lake, symbolizing clarity and communication.
   • Superior Man's Role: The hexagram suggests a metaphor where the superior man thoughtfully discusses criminal cases to delay executions. This implies the importance of careful consideration and seeking deeper understanding before taking irreversible actions.

II. Another Interpretation

A. "Inner Truth"

In another interpretation, the concept of Inner Truth is explored further:

• Legge's Interpretation: Inner Truth is considered the highest quality in a person. It grants the individual the ability to connect profoundly with spiritual beings, other humans, and even creatures of lower consciousness. The hexagram is structured with two magnetic lines in the center, surrounded by dynamic lines above and below.
• Symbolism: The magnetic lines symbolize a heart and mind unburdened by distractions or self-awareness, representing purity and sincerity. The dynamic lines, centrally positioned in their respective trigrams, exemplify the solid virtue of a person unencumbered by selfishness.

This interpretation highlights the power of unselfishness and spiritual purity in achieving harmony and understanding within oneself and with the world.

Credit: This interpretation is based on insights from James DeKorne's Official Website - The Gnostic Book of Changes - Hexagram 61.