2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)

Trigrams

Above

☷ Kūn (Earth)

Below

☷ Kūn (Earth)

Symbolic Meaning

坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.

Judgment

Original Chinese:
"元亨，利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)

"The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare."

The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.

Image

Original Chinese:
"地势坤，君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)

"The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world."

The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.

Line 1

Original Chinese:
"履霜，坚冰至。"
(Lǚ shuāng, jiān bīng zhì.)

"When there is hoarfrost underfoot, solid ice is not far off."

This line symbolizes the beginning stages of change. The first signs of cold (hoarfrost) signal the coming of winter (solid ice). In life, this means that small, early signs of change or difficulty should not be ignored, as they foreshadow larger issues. By recognizing these early signs, one can take action to prepare and avoid greater challenges ahead.

Line 2

Original Chinese:
"直方大，不习无不利。"
(Zhí fāng dà, bù xí wú bù lì.)

"Straight, square, great. Without purpose, yet nothing remains unfurthered."

This line emphasizes the qualities of firmness, stability, and reliability, symbolized by the earth’s form. The superior person acts in accordance with these principles, achieving greatness without forcing or pursuing specific outcomes. This suggests that by being true to one's nature and adhering to fundamental principles, success comes naturally, without striving or pushing.

Line 3

Original Chinese:
"含章可贞。或从王事，无成有终。"
(Hán zhāng kě zhēn. Huò cóng wáng shì, wú chéng yǒu zhōng.)

"Hidden lines. One is able to remain persevering. If by chance you are in the service of a king, seek not works, but bring to completion."

This line advises quiet perseverance and restraint. There is value in remaining unnoticed, focusing on completing one's work without seeking recognition or forcing premature action. If serving in a subordinate role, it is wise to contribute steadily and avoid seeking attention or credit. The focus should be on ensuring that what is started reaches completion, not on personal glory.

Line 4

Original Chinese:
"括囊，无咎无誉。"
(Guā náng, wú jiù wú yù.)

"A tied-up sack. No blame, no praise."

This line suggests the importance of restraint and discretion. The 'tied-up sack' represents keeping one’s thoughts or actions hidden from view. In situations where the timing is not right, it is wise to remain silent or inactive. There is no fault in maintaining a low profile during uncertain times, as it prevents drawing unwanted attention or conflict.

Line 5

Original Chinese:
"黄裳，元吉。"
(Huáng cháng, yuán jí.)

"A yellow lower garment brings supreme good fortune."

Yellow is the color of the earth, symbolizing humility and simplicity. The 'yellow lower garment' represents modesty and unobtrusiveness. This line advises that when in a supportive role, true success comes from acting with humility and remaining grounded. Good fortune will follow those who act with genuine sincerity, avoiding ostentation or ambition.

Line 6

Original Chinese:
"龙战于野，其血玄黄。"
(Lóng zhàn yú yě, qí xuè xuán huáng.)

"Dragons fight in the meadow. Their blood is black and yellow."

This line symbolizes conflict between opposing forces, represented by dragons (yang energy) clashing in the meadow (a neutral space). The black and yellow blood indicates that both sides (creative and receptive) are injured by the conflict. This serves as a warning against pushing too hard or striving for dominance in situations where balance and harmony are required.