Integrity Reaches Pigs and Fish: The Philosophy of Honesty in the Zhong Fu Hexagram of the I Ching

"Integrity Reaches Pigs and Fish" (信及豚鱼) is a classic idiom in traditional Chinese culture describing the ultimate extent of honesty. It originates from Hexagram 61, "Zhong Fu" (Inner Truth), in the I Ching (Book of Changes). It signifies that the virtue of integrity is so profound that it can even move animals like pigs and fish, which are typically difficult to influence. This allusion not only reflects the ancient admiration for moral power but also contains profound philosophical wisdom, often used to describe a heart of utmost sincerity.

Core Knowledge Points

1. Clear Origin: This idiom comes from the I Ching · Zhong Fu · Tuan Zhuan (Commentary on the Decision). The original text reads: "Pigs and fish bring good fortune; [this is because] integrity reaches pigs and fish" (豚鱼吉，信及豚鱼也). This is a direct explanation of the hexagram statement "Pigs and fish bring good fortune" (豚鱼吉), emphasizing the persuasive power of integrity.
2. Symbolic Meaning: In ancient times, pigs and fish were viewed as creatures difficult to communicate with through language, even representing humble or lowly things. If integrity can reach pigs and fish, it indicates that such integrity transcends species boundaries, reaching a realm that moves heaven and earth, leaving nothing untouched.
3. Philosophical Connotation: It emphasizes that "Fu" (trust/integrity) is a universal principle applicable to all things. As long as the heart is sincere, no excessive words are needed to gain good fortune (吉), and it is even beneficial for crossing great dangers (利涉大川). This is a moral power of "utmost sincerity without cease."

Connection with the Content of the I Ching

Within the I Ching system, the image of the "Zhong Fu" hexagram is "Wind over Lake." The upper trigram is Xun (Wind), and the lower trigram is Dui (Lake). Wind blowing over the lake symbolizes inner resonance and communication.

1. Hexagram Core: The core of the Zhong Fu hexagram lies in "Fu," meaning integrity and truthfulness. The hexagram statement directly says "Zhong Fu, pigs and fish bring good fortune," indicating that integrity is the key to obtaining good fortune. Integrity is not only a principle of interpersonal interaction but also a manifestation of aligning with the Heavenly Dao.
2. Commentary Interpretation: The Tuan Zhuan further explains: "Zhong Fu brings benefit through perseverance, thus corresponding to Heaven" (中孚以利贞，乃应乎天也). It points out that integrity aligns with the Heavenly Dao, thus it can resonate with all things. If even humble pigs and fish can be moved, what of humans? This reveals the I Ching's thought of "Unity of Heaven and Humanity," believing that human moral cultivation can influence the natural world.
3. Application Inspiration: The ancients believed that the way of self-cultivation lies in establishing sincerity. The Line 2 statement in the hexagram, "A crane cries in the shade, and its young respond to it" (鸣鹤在阴，其子和之), also echoes the theme of integrity resonating with others. If a gentleman can uphold the virtue of Zhong Fu, then his actions will be successful everywhere. This is consistent with the I Ching's overall emphasis on the value of "rectifying righteousness without seeking profit" (正其义不谋其利).

In summary, "Integrity Reaches Pigs and Fish" is not only the I Ching's highest praise for honesty but also a concrete embodiment of moral ideals in Chinese culture. In modern society, it reminds us that integrity is the cornerstone of interpersonal cooperation and social operation. Only with utmost sincerity can one reach far and wide, achieving true success and peace.