The I Ching, or Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese divination text that uses symbolism and hexagrams for guidance.
The I Ching coin method, a popular alternative to the yarrow stalk method, involves tossing three coins six times to create a hexagram. Each side of a coin, whether a standard coin or a Chinese coin with square holes, represents yin (receptive, feminine, broken line) or yang (active, masculine, solid line).
- Assigning Values: Heads are typically assigned a value of 3 (Yang), while tails are assigned a value of 2 (Yin).
- Determining the line: Each toss of three coins results in a sum from 6 to 9. The sum determines the line type:
– 6 (three tails): Changing Yin (broken line with an ‘x’ in the middle).
– 7 (one head, two tails): Unchanging Yang (solid line).
– 8 (two heads, one tail): Unchanging Yin (broken line).
– 9 (three heads): Changing Yang (solid line with a circle in the middle).
- Building the hexagram: The tossing and recording process is repeated six times, building the hexagram line by line, from the bottom upwards.
- Interpreting the hexagram: The resulting six-line hexagram is interpreted using an I Ching guidebook or online resource to understand its meaning and its relevance to the question asked.
In Feng Shui, the coins have symbolic meaning. The round shape signifies Heaven, and the square hole in Chinese coins symbolizes Earth, representing the harmony between the two. They are believed to attract positive energy and good fortune when placed in the home or workplace.
How many I Ching coins do I need?
A much easier hands-on method for casting the I Ching is to use three coins. If you are using Chinese bronze coins with the square hole in the middle, where there are no obvious heads or tails, be sure to choose for yourself which is which before beginning, and stick with that decision every time you use them.
What are I Ching coins made of?
These lightweight coins (approximately 1g each) are made with bronze and/or metal alloy and have been antiqued to give an old world appearance. Chinese coins can be used for I Ching divination, to make prosperity jewelry, for feng shui cures and much more.