Hexagram 4, Line 2

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line represents a position of strength and capability amidst ignorance or immaturity. The "Nine in the second place" is a strong yang line at the center of the lower trigram, Kǎn (the Abyss, Danger), which here symbolizes the student or the one in a state of "folly." Unlike the other lines that might punish or dismiss ignorance, this line advocates for a generous and inclusive approach. "To bear with the foolish" (包蒙) means to embrace, tolerate, and patiently guide those who are unenlightened. This magnanimity is the source of good fortune. The image of "taking a wife" (納婦) symbolizes the successful integration of a receptive, complementary element (yin) by a strong, active one (yang). This union is harmonious and productive. The result of this patience and successful integration is that "the son can manage the household" (子克家). This signifies that the person represented by this line has the maturity and competence to take on significant responsibility, bringing order and prosperity to their sphere of influence. The commentary notes that this success comes from the connection between the firm (this yang line 2) and the yielding (the yin line 5, the ruler of the hexagram), picturing a capable subordinate who supports the gentle leader, creating a balanced and effective structure.

Guidance for Action

Your current strength and knowledge place you in a position to lead or guide others who are less experienced. Instead of becoming frustrated or arrogant, your best course of action is to be patient, tolerant, and supportive. Embrace the role of a mentor. Your ability to include and nurture the potential in others will be the key to your own success and will bring good fortune to the entire situation. This is a time to demonstrate your competence not through dominance, but through generous and skillful management. Be open to forming new partnerships or integrating new elements into your life or work. By handling your responsibilities with this mature and inclusive attitude, you will prove yourself capable of managing even greater challenges, earning trust and respect.

For Love & Relationships

This is a highly auspicious line for love and relationships. It suggests a dynamic where strength and gentleness, or experience and innocence, can combine beautifully. If you are the more experienced partner, your role is to be patient and understanding with your beloved. Your generosity will create a secure and loving foundation for the relationship to flourish. The phrase "to take a wife brings good fortune" points directly towards commitment, marriage, or taking a relationship to a more serious and integrated level. It signifies a harmonious union where both partners complement each other, leading to a stable and happy "household." If you are seeking a relationship, look for someone whose qualities balance your own. True strength in a partnership is shown through mutual support and patient acceptance of each other's follies.

For Career & Business

In your professional life, you are currently a pillar of strength and competence, likely surrounded by inexperienced colleagues, a chaotic project, or a disorganized environment. Your success hinges on your ability to manage this "folly" with patience and a constructive attitude. Mentor your juniors, bring order to the chaos, and be the reliable force that others can depend on. "Taking a wife" may be a metaphor for a successful merger, a new and fruitful partnership, or integrating a new team or project under your management. The outcome, "the son can manage the household," indicates that your ability to handle these challenges will be recognized. You are proving yourself ready for a promotion, a leadership position, or greater autonomy. Your capacity for patient management is your greatest asset right now.

For Financial Matters

This line indicates that you have the competence to manage your financial affairs wisely. "To bear with the foolish" may advise patience with long-term investments that are slow to mature. It also suggests that you should be tolerant of your own or others' lack of financial knowledge, and take the time to learn or teach. Avoid impulsive decisions. "Taking a wife" can symbolize a beneficial financial merger, such as joining finances with a spouse, entering a sound business partnership, or acquiring a new asset that complements your portfolio. The result, "the son can manage the household," is a clear sign of success. Your prudent and responsible approach to finances will lead to stability, security, and the ability to build lasting wealth for yourself and your family. You are in control and capable of making your resources grow.