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The philosophy behind the coin tossing method in I Ching divination is deeply rooted in the ancient Chinese belief that the universe is a dynamic interplay of opposing forces, Yin and Yang, and that these forces are in constant transformation. The coin tossing method is a practical way to tap into this dynamic interplay and reveal the current state of these forces as they relate to the querent's question or situation.
The Coin Tossing Method
Preparation and Framing the Question:
- The querent must clear their mind and frame a clear, focused question. The mindset should be one of respect and openness to the counsel of the I Ching, without emotional agitation.
Casting the Coins:
- Three identical coins are used. The value of heads is typically assigned as 2 and tails as 3.
- The coins are tossed six times, building the hexagram from the bottom up.
- The total of each toss determines the type of line:
- 6: Old Yin (a changing or moving yin line, represented as "X")
- 7: Young Yang (a stable yang line, represented as "___")
- 8: Young Yin (a stable yin line, represented as "_ _")
- 9: Old Yang (a changing or moving yang line, represented as "O")
Creation of Hexagrams
Primary Hexagram:
- The primary hexagram is formed by arranging the six lines generated from the coin toss from bottom to top. This hexagram reflects the current situation or state of affairs.
Changing Lines:
- Lines that are either 6 (Old Yin) or 9 (Old Yang) are considered changing lines. These lines indicate areas of transformation and will flip to their opposite in the secondary hexagram:
- Old Yin (6) becomes Young Yang (___)
- Old Yang (9) becomes Young Yin (_ _)
Secondary Hexagram:
- When there are changing lines, a secondary hexagram is formed by changing all the Old Yin and Old Yang lines to their opposites. This secondary hexagram shows the potential future state or the direction in which the situation is moving.
Names and Meanings of Line Types:
- Young Yin (8): A stable, unchanging yin line. It represents receptivity, flexibility, and stillness.
- Old Yin (6): A changing or moving yin line. It represents a point of transformation where receptivity is turning into activity.
- Young Yang (7): A stable, unchanging yang line. It symbolizes strength, activity, and firmness.
- Old Yang (9): A changing or moving yang line. It signifies a point of transformation where activity is turning into receptivity.
Interpretation:
- Primary Hexagram: Provides insights into the current situation. The combination of its trigrams (the upper and lower three-line sets) offers additional layers of meaning.
- Secondary Hexagram: Offers guidance on the future or the outcome if the advice is followed or the situation progresses naturally.
- Changing Lines: Highlight specific areas where transformation is taking place and provide detailed counsel on how to handle these changes.
