The Meaning of Hexagram #61

Hexagram #61: Wind over Lake

Hexagram number 61 signifies a deep bond or feeling of kinship. This is a time when it will be easy to cultivate mutual trust in relationships and partnerships. Let go of any remnants of prejudice you may carry, and seek the beauty and fullness that can be found in all people and things. Realize all life is interconnected. Everyone is one. This is the inner truth you have been seeking, but have never lost. Also indicated here are the differences between what is outside and what is inside yourself. What truly matters to you?

NOTE: Looking for answers about how I Ching hexagram #61, "Wind over Lake", is interpreted for questions about relationships? See iFate's special Love I Ching interpretation for hexagram #61

Changing Lines in Hexagram #61

Changes in Line 1

"Cultivating Stability"

Inner truth becomes recognized through a stable and secure sense of self. The wise person does not fight with their self inside the mind. Instead, they objectively observe the workings of their own mind. This fosters a deep feeling of connection with all those they come into contact with. Harmony then becomes prevalent in all relationships.

Changes in Line 2

"Hearing the Call of the Crane"

This line symbolizes that great comrades will gather around you when you are in touch with inner truth. Listen for their call. Invite them into your life. This will be a time of meaningful and spiritual connection with others

Changes in Line 3

"Singing and Laughing with Comrades"

No matter how much strength and warmth others can offer, the wise person always remembers that true connection starts in their own heart. This will be a time of great mirth, but you will be the real source of it.

Changes in Line 4

"Receiving Light"

Just as the moon receives the Sun's light, the wise person receives a sense of spiritual light (love) which forms the basis of their inner truth. This is a good time to read inspirational books or be with people you love and admire. Stay humble and you will find great assistance from the sharing of wisdom

Changes in Line 5

"Unifying Through Love of Truth"

This line indicates a time of wonderful unions and reunions. Your alignment with inner truth will string together all varieties and all colors of jewels.

Changes in Line 6

"Silencing the Rooster's Call"

This image means: Walk your talk. Don't simply use words and good thoughts to connect with inner truth. Use silence. Take Action. Rouse yourself, instead of letting the rooster rouse you

The Two Trigrams Inside Hexagram #61

Hexagram #61 is built out of two 3-line trigrams stacked on top of each other. The lower 3 lines of hexagram #61 form the trigram for Lake, while the top 3 lines form the trigram for Wind.

NOTE: A simple way to think about trigrams is that the hexagram's upper trigram symbolizes external forces or energies, while the lower trigram symbolizes internal forces or energies.

Hexagram #61's Lower Trigram of Lake

The blissful trigram representing the lake symbolizes happiness and clarity of thought and communication. Blissful tranquility is referenced here, along with a sense of calm and devotion. The blissful Lake may also point to a 'third daughter' or the map direction west.

Hexagram #61's Upper Trigram of Wind

The mild mannered trigram of wind is associated with a light and easy energy. The trigram of wind is also known as a 'soft force': both subtle and lacking in strength, and yet persistent and unwavering. The wind trigram may also point to an 'eldest daughter' or the compass direction of southeast

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #61

A note on iFate's I Ching translation: This is not a direct translation of the original "Book of Changes" from 1000 BC. While multiple translations of the original text are available, they include many archaic references and can be difficult to understand for 21st century readers. iFate uses our own modern rewritings (two different editions) of the "Book of Changes" which makes interpreting I Ching readings far simpler. For iFate's additional contemporary re-writing of the original text, see our "Love I Ching" translation.