I Ching Hexagram 2: THE RECEPTIVE (Kun)

The Judgement

THE RECEPTIVE brings about sublime success, Furthering through the perseverance of a mare. If the superior man undertakes something and tries to lead, He goes astray; But if he follows, he finds guidance. It is favorable to find friends in the west and south, To forego friends in the east and north. Quiet perseverance brings good fortune.

The Lines

Six at the top

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

The Image says: 'Dragons fight in the meadow.' The way has come to an end.

Six in the fifth place

A yellow lower garment brings supreme good fortune.

The Image says: 'A yellow lower garment brings supreme good fortune.' This is because the beauty is within.

Six in the fourth place

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

The Image says: 'A tied-up sack. No blame.' This is because through caution no harm can come.

Six in the third place

Hidden lines. One is able to remain persevering. If by chance you are in the service of a king, seek no success but rather bring the work to a conclusion.

The Image says: 'Hidden lines. One is able to remain persevering.' This is to be manifested in its own time. 'If by chance you are in the service of a king,' this wisdom is glorious and great.

Six in the second place

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

The Image says: The movement of the six in the second place is 'straight and square.' 'Without purpose, yet nothing remains unfurthered,' because the nature of the earth is glorious.

Six at the beginning

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

The Image says: 'When there is hoarfrost underfoot, solid ice is not far off.' The dark power is beginning to grow. By following this way, one arrives at solid ice.

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Use of Sixes

Lasting perseverance furthers.

(This text applies when all lines are changing.)

The Wisdom of Hexagram — An Eastern Perspective

The Power of Devotion and Strength

While Hexagram 1 represents pure creative energy, Hexagram 2 (The Receptive) represents the essential power of support and nature.

The image of K'un takes us on a journey from the first sign of winter—"Treading on Frost" (Line 1)—to the ultimate conflict of "Dragons fighting in the wild" (Top Line). This cycle shows how Yin energy grows from a small beginning to its limit. If Yin tries to fight against Yang, it leads to destruction.

The lesson of the "Use of Six" is found in the phrase "Profit from everlasting perseverance". This is a reminder that being "Receptive" does not mean being weak or passive. It means having the inner strength to yield, to support, and to maintain strict principles. True harmony comes when we balance the Yin and Yang within us—being gentle in manner, but strong in character.

Structural Relatives