The hexagram represents the laws within the family structure.  All the connections and relationships within the family find their appropriate expression. When the family is in order, all the social relationships of mankind will be in order.  The family is society in embryo, and the performance of moral duty is made easy through natural affection, so that within a small circle a basis of moral practice is created and this extends itself to include all human relationships in general.

Influence works from within outward and in order to be capable of producing such an influence, one’s words must have power and this is achieved only if these words are supported by one’s entire conduct.  Only  firm and consistent conduct will make such an impression on others that they can adapt and conform to.