Hexagram 2
坤为地
The Receptive
Upper Trigram
☷
坤 (土)
Lower Trigram
☷
坤 (土)
Palace
坤 Palace
Shi / Ying Lines
Shi: Line 6 · Ying: Line 3
The 坤 trigram (土) sits above the 坤 trigram (土), forming 坤为地. This hexagram belongs to the 坤 Palace.
Judgment (卦辞)
The Receptive brings about sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.
Image (象辞)
The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man carries the outer world.
Line Texts (爻辞)
When there is hoarfrost underfoot, solid ice is not far off. (履霜，坚冰至)
Straight, square, great. Without purpose, yet nothing remains unfurthered. (直方大，不习无不利)
Hidden lines. One is able to remain persevering. (含章可贞，或从王事，无成有终)
A tied-up sack. No blame, no praise. (括囊，无咎无誉)
A yellow lower garment brings supreme good fortune. (黄裳，元吉)
Dragons fight in the meadow. (龙战于野，其血玄黄)
In-Depth Analysis
Hexagram 2, Kun, is the pure expression of Yin energy. Where Qian is Heaven, Kun is Earth - the vessel that receives and brings to fruition. Kun embodies devotion, adaptability, and quiet strength. The mare symbolizes steadfast endurance rather than aggressive power. The six lines progress from the first frost warning through quiet competence to the climactic battle of dragons. When consulting the I Ching, Kun advises patience, receptivity, and supporting roles. Greatness comes not from dominating but from sustaining.
Historical Stories
📜 The Empress Dowager of Han guided three successive emperors through quiet influence, never ruling directly.
📜 Yu the Great tamed floods by working with water's nature, embodying Kun's receptive action.
Practical Applications
Career: Excel at support roles. The time for leadership will come.
Relationships: Be the listener. Holding space is the most powerful gift.
Business: Focus on operations and sustainability over aggressive expansion.