Methods of Starting Hexagrams in the Six Lines of Zhouyi: An Ancient Divination Guide

The Zhouyi, also known as the I Ching, is one of the oldest and most profound Chinese classics. The six - line hexagrams in the Zhouyi are a key part of its divination system. In this blog, we will explore the methods of starting hexagrams in the six lines of Zhouyi.

There are mainly two traditional methods for starting hexagrams: the yarrow - stalk method and the coin - tossing method.

The Yarrow - Stalk Method

This is the most ancient and complex method. Here are the steps:

Prepare 50 yarrow stalks. Remove one stalk and set it aside. This represents the Taiji, the origin of all things. Randomly divide the remaining 49 stalks into two piles. This symbolizes the separation of heaven and earth. Take one stalk from the right - hand pile and put it between the little finger and the ring finger of the left hand. This represents humanity. Group the stalks in each pile into groups of four. Count the remaining stalks in each pile. Based on the number, we can determine the first line of the hexagram. Repeat this process five more times to get the remaining five lines.

The Coin - Tossing Method

This is a more convenient and modern method. The steps are as follows:

Prepare three coins. The coins should be of the same type. Each coin has two sides, representing yin and yang. Toss the three coins at once. If all three coins show the yang side, it is a young yang line. If all three show the yin side, it is a young yin line. If two are yang and one is yin, it is an old yang line. If two are yin and one is yang, it is an old yin line. Record the result. Repeat the coin - tossing process five more times to form a complete six - line hexagram.

Both methods have their own characteristics. The yarrow - stalk method is more in line with the traditional philosophical concepts of the Zhouyi, but it is time - consuming and complex. The coin - tossing method is simple and quick, which is more suitable for modern people.

In conclusion, the methods of starting hexagrams in the six lines of Zhouyi are not only divination techniques but also a reflection of traditional Chinese culture and philosophy. Whether you choose the yarrow - stalk method or the coin - tossing method, you can experience the profound connotations of the Zhouyi and gain inspiration from it.