Hexagram 2
The Receptive
坤 (Kūn)
Earth over Earth
Hexagram 2 in the I Ching represents the pure receptive principle - the nourishing mother, the fertile earth. This iching hexagram 2 symbolizes the feminine, yielding force of the universe, embodying devotion, support, and the potential to bring plans into fruition.
Key Concepts
The Judgment
Hexagram 2 teaches the power of receptivity and supportive action. Success comes not from leading, but from diligently and devotedly following a righteous course or supporting a worthy leader. Like a mare, which combines strength with gentleness, one should be persistent and loyal.
The Image
The image of the earth symbolizes boundless capacity to nourish and sustain. The superior person emulates this by cultivating a generous and tolerant character, capable of bearing responsibility and supporting others without complaint. True strength lies in this gentle, enduring power.
Interpretation & Guidance
When hexagram 2 appears, it signals a time for patience, support, and receptivity. Instead of initiating bold new actions, the focus should be on nurturing existing projects, assisting others, and carefully carrying out duties. Your role now is that of a builder, a nurturer, a steadfast supporter.
This hexagram advises you to be responsive rather than assertive. Listen carefully to others and to your own intuition. Success will come through gentle persistence and aligning yourself with positive, creative forces. This is a time to build foundations and bring potential into tangible form.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Six at the Beginning (初六)
Bottom line - Yin
"When there is hoarfrost underfoot, solid ice is not far off."
This line is a caution. Small, early signs of trouble should be heeded. Just as frost signals the coming of winter, minor negative developments can lead to major problems if ignored. Be observant and prudent.
Six in the Second Place (六二)
Second line - Yin
"Straight, square, great. Without purpose, yet nothing remains unaccomplished."
This line embodies the ideal nature of the receptive. Act naturally, honestly (straight), and correctly (square), and your influence will be vast (great). Things will unfold successfully without forced effort, through the power of your inherent character.
Six in the Third Place (六三)
Third line - Yin
"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."
Keep your talents concealed for now. Your worth is not yet meant for public display. Be patient and serve diligently without seeking recognition. Focus on finishing tasks perfectly rather than starting new ones. Your time will come.
Six in the Fourth Place (六四)
Fourth line - Yin
"A tied-up sack. No blame, no praise."
This line advises extreme caution and discretion. It is a time to remain withdrawn and silent, like a tied-up sack. By avoiding involvement, you avoid both blame and praise, staying safe during a potentially dangerous time.
Six in the Fifth Place (六五)
Fifth line - Yin
"A yellow undergarment brings supreme good fortune."
Yellow is the color of the earth and the center; an undergarment is something worn discreetly. This represents the highest virtue of receptivity: being modest and reserved, with your worth shining from within. This inner integrity brings the greatest success.
Six at the Top (上六)
Top line - Yin
"Dragons fight in the meadow. Their blood is black and yellow."
This line warns of going too far. When the receptive (yin) principle tries to compete with the creative (yang), conflict ensues, causing harm to both. Know your role and its limits. Pushing beyond your natural capacity leads to a downfall.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
In love, hexagram 2 signifies a time for nurturing, listening, and being supportive. If you are single, you may attract a partner by being receptive and genuine rather than through aggressive pursuit. For those in relationships, this is a time to strengthen your bond by being a devoted and understanding partner. Your ability to create a warm, secure environment is your greatest gift.
Career & Business (事业)
Professionally, hexagram 2 indicates success through teamwork, diligence, and supporting the vision of a leader or organization. It is not a time for self-promotion or radical new initiatives. Instead, focus on executing your tasks flawlessly and being a reliable, indispensable member of the team. Your hard work and loyalty will be recognized and rewarded in due time.
Health & Wellness (健康)
Health-wise, hexagram 2 points to the importance of nourishment, rest, and gentle, grounding practices. Pay attention to your diet and ensure you are receiving the nutrients your body needs. It's a time to be receptive to your body's signals. Restorative activities like yoga, meditation, and spending time in nature are highly beneficial.
Financial Matters (财运)
Financially, this hexagram advises a conservative and patient approach. Focus on steady, long-term growth and secure investments rather than high-risk ventures. This is a time for saving, careful budgeting, and building a solid financial foundation. Wealth will accumulate through prudence and consistent effort.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
On a personal level, hexagram 2 encourages the development of virtues like patience, tolerance, humility, and endurance. True strength is not always assertive. Learn the power of yielding, of being present, and of supporting others. By cultivating this deep, receptive inner ground, you create the space for all good things to grow in your life.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
The timing of hexagram 2 is for implementation, not initiation. The time is right to follow through on existing plans, to serve and support, and to let things unfold naturally. Avoid rushing or forcing outcomes. Your best advice is to embrace a receptive mindset. Be patient, be thorough, and act with devotion. Success lies in your capacity to be a constructive and stabilizing force.
