About the I Ching
Understanding the ancient wisdom and how to interpret your reading
The History
The I Ching, also known as the Book of Changes or Yi Jing, is one of the oldest Chinese classical texts, dating back over 3,000 years. It is considered one of the foundational texts of Chinese philosophy and has influenced countless generations of thinkers, from Confucius to modern scholars.
The text is built around 64 hexagrams—symbols composed of six stacked lines, each either broken (yin) or solid (yang). These hexagrams represent fundamental patterns of change in the universe, offering insights into the dynamic interplay of opposites and the cyclical nature of existence.
Traditionally, the I Ching was consulted through various methods of divination, including yarrow stalks or coins. The process was not merely about predicting the future, but about understanding the present moment and the natural flow of change, providing guidance for decision-making and self-reflection.
How to Use This Tool
To cast the I Ching using this tool, follow these steps:
- Formulate your question: Before casting, take a moment to clearly formulate the question or situation you seek guidance on. The more focused your intention, the clearer the response will be.
- Cast the coins: Click "Cast the Coins" to simulate the traditional three-coin method. The system will toss three coins six times, once for each line of the hexagram (from bottom to top).
- Receive your hexagram: Based on the coin results, you will receive a hexagram that corresponds to your question. Each hexagram has a name, interpretation, and image that provide insight into your situation.
- Reflect on the meaning: Read the hexagram's interpretation carefully and consider how it relates to your question. The I Ching speaks in metaphors and symbols—allow time for reflection and intuition to guide your understanding.
Understanding Your Reading
Single Hexagram Reading
When you receive a single hexagram (no moving lines), this represents a stable situation. The hexagram's meaning applies directly to your question as it stands in the present moment. The guidance is clear and direct—this is the state of things now, and the wisdom offered is for understanding and accepting the current situation.
A single hexagram reading suggests that the situation is relatively stable and the answer lies in understanding the present circumstances rather than anticipating change.
Two Hexagram Reading (Moving Lines)
When your cast includes moving lines, you receive two hexagrams. This indicates a situation in transition—change is present or imminent.
The first hexagram represents your current situation—where you are now, the present state of affairs, and the immediate context of your question.
The second hexagram (the "changed" hexagram) shows where the situation is moving toward—the potential outcome, the direction of change, or what may develop if current trends continue.
A two-hexagram reading suggests that your situation is dynamic and evolving. The guidance is twofold: understand where you are, and be aware of where you are heading. This dual perspective helps you navigate change with wisdom and intention.
A Note on Interpretation
The I Ching does not provide simple yes-or-no answers or rigid predictions. Instead, it offers a framework for understanding the patterns and forces at work in your situation. The wisdom is contemplative and requires reflection.
Trust your intuition as you read the hexagram's meaning. The symbols and metaphors may speak to you in ways that are personal and specific to your situation. Allow the reading to guide your thinking rather than dictate your actions.
Remember that the I Ching reflects the natural flow of change—nothing is permanent, and all situations evolve. Whether you receive one hexagram or two, the guidance is meant to help you align with the natural order of things and make decisions that are in harmony with the moment.