Hexagram 2
The Receptive
坤 · 곤
Earth over Earth
The Judgment
The Receptive brings things to completion through breadth, fidelity, and a strength willing to follow. Its model is the steadfast mare, responsive yet tireless. Do not seize the leading place: direction becomes clear when you consent to the proper order. Toward the southwest, companions gather; toward the northeast, familiar company falls away. Both fellowship and separation have their season. Rest in what is correct, and devoted service will bear the undertaking safely to fulfillment.
The Image
Earth rests upon earth, showing a depth that receives all things without refusing their weight. The noble one enlarges virtue in the same manner, becoming capable of sustaining many kinds of life. Such breadth is not indifference; it is a patient generosity grounded in firmness.
In the light of the Dao
Yielding is not the absence of power but its freedom from self-assertion. The valley receives what the heights cannot retain. Let usefulness arise from openness, and allow another to lead when leading would disturb the whole; the unclaimed place can nourish everything.
The two trigrams
Upper · outer
☷Earth
Receptive, yielding · Mother
Lower · inner
☷Earth
Receptive, yielding · Mother
The six lines
Read from the bottom up. A line speaks only when it moves — when the cast gives it as 6 or 9.
First line · the beginning · yin, six
A first touch of frost announces the harder cold that will follow. Small tendencies are not insignificant merely because their consequences remain distant. Discern the direction of what is beginning, and correct a harmful habit before repetition gives it the solidity of winter.
Second line · the inner centre · yin, six
Receptive virtue is inwardly true, outwardly well ordered, and broad in its effects. Nothing artificial needs to be added to make it useful. Act from an undivided nature, and the ordinary duties of the day will find their proper measure.
Third line · the threshold · yin, six
Keep excellence within rather than hurrying to make it visible. Steadfastness allows hidden gifts to ripen. If called into the service of a ruler, perform the work faithfully without claiming its glory; fulfillment lies in completing the task, not possessing the achievement.
Fourth line · the minister · yin, six
The time resembles a sack whose mouth must remain securely closed. Guard speech, conceal plans, and avoid offering your inward life to a dangerous situation. This reserve brings neither distinction nor blame; safety itself is the appropriate accomplishment for now.
Fifth line · the ruler · yin, six
A garment of the earth's central color is worn below, suggesting excellence expressed through modest service. Remain centered without seeking the highest place. When inward nobility takes an unassuming outward form, influence becomes trustworthy and unusually favorable results can follow.
Top line · the end · yin, six
Yielding has hardened into rivalry and now contests the power it should have complemented. Dragons struggle in the open, and their mingled blood shows injury to both sides. Do not mistake stubborn opposition for fidelity; restore distinction and harmony before mutual harm deepens.