In the hexagram Kun, line 64, the hexagram text reads: "Enclose the bag, and there will be no blame or praise." The hexagram symbol text says: "Enclosing the bag without blame means being cautious and not harming others." Tighten the bag, keep your mouth shut and your edges hidden, do not seek praise, but only strive for no faults. This ancient wisdom resonates perfectly with the mindset of a handmade pet sweater knitter.
Enclosure: the way for hand knitters to conceal their skills
When knitting a dog sweater, the biggest taboo is to be impulsive and impatient, eager to achieve quick results.
Knitting should also follow this principle: don't be eager to show off your stitching technique, and don't be greedy for quantity or speed. Take your time with each stitch, hold steady with each thread, and tuck away impulsiveness and showiness like tying up a pocket.
- Be humble in action: Do not seek momentary praise, but strive for flawless every step. If a stitch is knitted wrongly, it must be undone and redone; if the yarn is tangled, it must be patiently straightened. Do not be greedy for speed or fame, but seek only to knit a warm, smooth, and durable sweater.
- Accumulating strength in silence: It may seem slow, but it is actually gathering strength. Just like the earth storing vitality in winter, the knitter, through every stitch, refines their skills and hones their character. When the time is right, a masterpiece will naturally emerge.
The "encompassing" wisdom in history
1. Mr. Shuijing: The hidden edge of a good-natured person
Sima Hui of the Three Kingdoms, known as Mr. Shuijing, was highly talented but never showed it. No matter what people asked him, he would only answer "good", and was called "Mr. Nice Guy". When Liu Biao came to visit, he still only said "good". Liu Biao thought he was mediocre and no longer suspected him. He exchanged "no reputation" for "no blame", protected himself in the troubled times, and waited for a wise ruler. This is the wisdom of "keeping one's thoughts to oneself" in dealing with the world.
2. King Wen of Zhou: The King of Endurance and Accumulation
After being released by King Zhou, Ji Chang, he was acutely aware of the perilous situation he was in. He kept silent about his suffering in Youli, did not boast of his achievements, paid tribute on time, and strictly adhered to the etiquette of a subject. He tightly "contained" his ambitions and sharpness, secretly accumulated strength, and welcomed talented people. Ultimately, he gained a breathing space with "no blame," laying the foundation for the Zhou Dynasty.
3. Fan Li: A wise man who withdraws when his mission is accomplished
Fan Li aided Gou Jian in reviving his country, and his achievements were so great that they shocked the ruler. He was well aware that "when fame is at its peak, misfortune will follow," so he resolutely resigned from his position, changed his name, and abandoned politics to pursue business. He did not cling to power or seek fame, and with the wisdom of "packing his bags," he avoided the danger of losing his life, ultimately becoming a business sage of his generation.
The Enlightenment of the Hexagram Kun 64 for Knitters
1. Devote oneself to art knitting, not seeking empty fame
There's no need to rush to showcase your work and beg for likes. Focus on the knitting technique, yarn quality, and cut, treating every sweater as a labor of love. Don't seek praise from others, just strive for a clear conscience.
2. Be cautious in action and needlework, and it is best to avoid blame
In knitting, a single mistake can ruin the whole project. Just like the principle of "caution prevents harm" in the June Fourth incident, the knitter needs to be cautious every step of the way and always be attentive. It's better to work slowly and ensure that every stitch is secure, rather than making major mistakes.
3. Store up your strength and wait for the right time, accumulate knowledge and make a breakthrough
There's no need to rush for success. Through day-to-day knitting, skills are refined and experience is accumulated. Just like the earth embracing spring, when the time is right, a stunning work will naturally emerge.
4. Embrace gentleness and non-resistance, and warmth will naturally emerge
The Tao of the Earth is characterized by gentleness. Knitters use yarn as a medium and a needle as a pen, knitting not only sweaters but also warmth and inclusiveness. Without striving or competing, warmth will naturally spread; without showing off or flaunting, beauty will naturally endure.
The hexagram 64 of Kun represents the wisdom of concealing one's strengths and the power of forbearance. For those who engage in handcrafting, it signifies a deepened focus, cautious action, accumulated strength, and maintaining gentleness. Tighten the pockets of impulsiveness, preserve inner tranquility, and through every stitch, weave a warm life that belongs to oneself.
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Post time: Apr-20-2026