The Gate of Allowing
Other Names: Keeper of the Keys, The Receptive
Biology: liver
Archetypal Insight from the I Ching, by Ma Deva Padma; when this description resonates, a shift from novice expression to wisdom is likely imminent:
The Receptive is yielding and passive. It is the sign of devotion, the yin principle that complements and balances The Creative, the yang principle. Her symbols are earth and the cow, in contrast to the dragon of heaven. Together they comprise a complete cosmology – out of which life is brought into being and into which it returns at death. In human life, the most obvious manifestation of yin and yang is the relationship between female and male. However, the interdependence of these principles is also present in the relationship between parent and child, teacher and student, guru and disciple – and within each of us, in the apparent duality of our sensory, physical experience of life, and the more subtle spiritual experiences, or the body and the soul of being.
Receptivity is dependent on the dynamic spark of creative inspiration to be activated into productivity, just as creativity is dependent on, and nourished by, the fertile ground of emptiness. When The Receptive complements The Creative, it functions as a womb, an empty canvas on which an infinite variety of creations can be made manifest. This image is best represented as Mother Nature in that she nurtures and supports all living things, generously bestowing form and beauty. Receptivity is a fine balance; it is docile, open, nurturing while being intensely devoted and strong enough to persevere through even the most difficult of times. When this yin principle is in a negative manifestation it envies, complains, and competes for authority, generating chaos and dissolution. Or else, like a couch potato, does nothing but wallow in passivity and indolence, expecting every whim to be catered to.
The strength of receptivity is in its depth, its infinite capacity to absorb and support action. Just like the darkness of space which sustains all matter, it is a reminder that this is not the moment to act impulsively but to take time, give space, and consider the far-reaching effects of any action that might be taken. If you push at a time that receptivity is needed, however resolute you may feel, you are steering away from your goal, toward confusion and difficulty, and it is more than likely that many others will be dragged along with you. Waiting doesn’t mean weakness, or uncertainty; rather, by recognizing that for now your energies are best placed supporting others, you are not only acting intelligently but with sensitivity. Once you put the full weight of your support behind anyone or anything, they can’t help but be strengthened by it. Any enticements toward making your own power plays or claiming your share of the limelight would be untimely. The power of your presence is bolstered by your total devotion to what you intuit is the wise way to go. Knowing clearly where and with whom to invest your energies will require a cool, detached perspective. Carefully considering others’ objectives will help you support the plans that ring true for you.
Lao-Tzu referred to the Tao (Flow) as the Divine Mother that in her absolute emptiness is eternally birthing all things and the cosmos itself. The essence of emptiness is present within each of us, and like a blank slate receives whatever we write upon it. The dark vast qualities of yin are indeed great, and to appreciate its support is to be humbled in gratitude.
The Changes (additional insight for applying the Line of an activated Gate)
Line 1 – Investigator/Information
When you notice a slowing down, beware of lethargy bringing things to a complete standstill. Alertness will help you spot the first signs of dissolution, enabling you to take precautionary measures, reversing the negative trend in time.
Line 2 – Responder/Hermit
Don’t worry about being right or wrong. You can’t help but be in synchronicity with the Tao (universal/divine Flow). The only thing that gets in the way of being totally in the dance of life is worrying about where to put your feet.
Line 3 – Explorer
Avoid hungering for recognition and trust that your time will come. A deep and subtle transformation will take place first. Attracting attention to yourself too soon would be like eating an apple before it’s ripe.
Line 4 – Stabilizer
Self-discipline, although not easy, is essential. Maintaining a low profile is the only way to avoid attracting aggression and envy from others.
Line 5 – Visionary Leader
Although you may be in prominent position, your function is subordinate to that of others. To remain in harmony with the way the Tao (universal/divine Flow) is moving now, be content to be supportive from the background. Let go of any nagging fears that you’ll be overlooked or that your contribution isn’t respected. Keeping a low profile will bring success.
Line 6 – Adept/Role Model
Efforts to dominate will create harm for all concerned. Anxiety about your self-image may whet your appetite for power and recognition – at the expense of overall harmony. This loss of perspective will alienate you and be hurtful to others.
Other aspects
Astrological Sign: Taurus
Dynamics: Yin/Receptive (earth)
Color: black
Attributes: yielding, supportive, devotional, intuitive
Action(s): to give away
Developmental: womb