What kind of grass is used for divination in Zhouyi? Pictures and names

Divination is an ancient practice deeply rooted in various cultures, and the Zhouyi, also known as the I Ching, is one of the most well - known divination systems in Chinese history. A crucial element in the Zhouyi divination process is the use of a specific kind of grass. In this blog, we'll explore what kind of grass is used, along with its pictures and names.

The grass used for divination in the Zhouyi is Yarrow (Achillea millefolium). Yarrow has a long - standing association with traditional Chinese divination. In ancient China, it was believed that yarrow grass had a special spiritual quality that could connect the diviner with the cosmic forces and help in revealing the future.

Yarrow is a perennial herb with feathery, fern - like leaves. It typically has small, white or pink flowers that bloom in clusters. The stems of yarrow are long and straight, which makes them suitable for the complex divination procedures in the Zhouyi. When you look at pictures of yarrow, you can see its delicate yet sturdy appearance. The long stems are often used to represent different aspects of the divination symbols in the Zhouyi.

The process of using yarrow for Zhouyi divination is quite intricate. First, the diviner selects 50 yarrow stalks. One stalk is set aside, leaving 49. These 49 stalks are then divided into two groups randomly. Then, a series of counting and grouping operations are carried out, following specific rules in the Zhouyi. Through these operations, different combinations of yin and yang are obtained, which form the basis for interpreting the divination results.

Today, although modern people may not practice Zhouyi divination as frequently as in the past, yarrow still holds a special place in the study of traditional Chinese culture. It serves as a link to the ancient wisdom and the spiritual world that the Zhouyi represents.

In conclusion, yarrow is the grass used for divination in the Zhouyi. Its unique appearance and the long - standing cultural significance make it an important part of the Zhouyi divination tradition. Whether you are interested in traditional Chinese culture, divination, or just curious about the plants with special historical values, yarrow is definitely worth exploring further.