The hexagram 62 of the hexagram "Kun" in the Book of Changes states: "Be upright and square, and there is no harm if one is not accustomed to it." This hexagram is in the middle and is in the right position, representing the pure virtue of the Kun principle - inner integrity, upright conduct, grand vision, following nature, and not resorting to trickery, which leads to success in all directions. This wisdom serves as a guide for the practice of handmade dog sweater knitters.
The hand knitter's insight into "straightness and largeness"
Hand-knitting a sweater, from starting the stitches to completing the garment, embodies the feminine virtue of modesty.
- Straightness: The heart is upright and the line is straight, without deviation or partiality
The "straightness" of the hand knitter embodies purity and focus of the heart. Without being hasty or perfunctory, every stitch follows the texture of the wool, without twisting or pulling. Straight threads result in straight stitches, and straight stitches make the garment stand up. Just like the "straightness" of the earth, with regular movements and a pure heart, the hand knitted sweater is smooth and comfortable to wear.
- Fang: abide by rules and regulations, act within boundaries
The "squareness" of the knitter refers to the adherence to stitch techniques, measurements, and patterns. Precise starting stitch counts, uniform needle types, and controlled tensioning and loosening are essential, with no random changes or shortcuts allowed. Just like the "squareness" of the earth, which has boundaries and norms, only with these principles can a sweater fit well and have a stable structure.
- Greatness: inclusiveness and generosity, harboring warmth
The "greatness" of a knitter lies in her broad-mindedness and vision. She tolerates the small imperfections of the wool and accepts the minor mistakes in hand knitting, without being obsessed or impatient. With every stitch and thread accumulated, a warm garment that embraces both the body and the soul is finally formed. Just like the "greatness" of the earth, which carries all things and encompasses everything, the handmade sweater becomes thick, warm, and full of love.
- No practice, no advantage: Follow nature, avoid scheming
A true knitter does not rely on fancy tricks or seek quick fixes. Based on the principle of "straightness and generosity", they follow the natural laws of wool and needlework, focusing on the present moment and knitting with heart. Even without deliberately showing off their skills, they can still produce simple yet moving, durable and excellent works - this is the essence of "not practicing, not profiting".
The story of "Zhi Fang Da" in history
This wisdom of adhering to principles and following the Tao shines brightly in history.
- Lv Duan was not muddled in major matters, embodying the ideal of a great prime minister
Lü Duan, a prime minister of the Northern Song Dynasty, was praised for his "clear-headedness in major matters." He was upright in character and recommended the outspoken and fearless Kou Zhun as his prime minister, not clinging to power and prioritizing the overall situation. When Emperor Taizong of Song wanted to kill the mother of the rebel general Li Jiqian, Lü Duan risked his life to advise against it, using a lenient and long-term plan to stop the killing and ultimately pacify the border. He stood by his principles with "integrity," acted with "rigor," and tolerated others with "magnanimity." He did not resort to trickery and adhered to the righteous path, eventually becoming a renowned prime minister. This is a perfect illustration of the saying, "If one is upright, rigorous, and magnanimous, and does not practice trickery, following the righteous path will always lead to success.".
- Li Wenjing was a gentleman who upheld justice and integrity, with a dignified demeanor
Li Wenjing (Li Hang), a renowned prime minister of the Northern Song Dynasty, obtained the hexagram 62 of the hexagram of the Earth (Kun) in divination when he was yet to meet his destiny, and he encouraged himself with the phrase "upright and square, great." He was upright, dignified, tolerant, and steadfast in character, acting impartially and without opportunism. Emperor Zhenzong of Song watched him leave the court and praised him, saying, "His demeanor is dignified and calm, truly a noble man." He cultivated himself with the virtue of the Earth, following the Tao, and although he did not deliberately seek advancement, he rose to the highest position and won the favor of the emperor, perfectly embodying the realm of "without practice, nothing is difficult.".
The cultivation of the hand knitter is also a reflection of life
Handmade sweaters are knitted with yarns, but they are knitted with care and patience.
The hexagram 62 of the hexagram of Kun teaches us that adhering to righteousness, following norms, and being tolerant are the greatest ways to achieve success. The handknitter holds the needle and yarn in her hands, just as she holds the principles of life in her hands - guarding her heart with "straightness", being impartial and unbiased; acting with "squareness", following rules and norms; tolerating others with "generosity", being forgiving and inclusive. Without resorting to trickery, following nature, every stitch is a form of cultivation.
When you finish hand knitting the last stitch and wrap your family with the warmth of your own handiwork, you will understand that this "straight and square" virtue of the Earth not only knits a sweater, but also knits a down-to-earth, calm, and warm life.
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Post time: Apr-17-2026