Introduction to Six Lines Divination: The Mystery of Three Copper Coins

What is Six Lines Divination?

Six Lines Divination, also known as "King Wen's Method" or "Money Hexagram," is one of the most commonly used divination techniques in the I Ching. It involves casting copper coins to form a hexagram, with interpretations of fortune or misfortune based on the hexagram image and line statements.

Method of Casting the Hexagram

Preparation

  1. Prepare three identical copper coins (or regular coins).
  2. Find a quiet place, calm your mind, and focus on the question at hand.
  3. Hold the three coins cupped in your palms.

Casting Rules

Simultaneously toss the three coins, and determine the line based on the combination of heads and tails:

| Number of Heads | Line Symbol | Name | Notation | |-----------------|-------------|------|----------| | 3 heads | Old Yang (Changing Line) | △ | ⚊→⚋ | | 2 heads, 1 tail | Young Yin | -- | ⚋ | | 1 head, 2 tails | Young Yang | — | ⚊ | | 3 tails | Old Yin (Changing Line) | × | ⚋→⚊ |

Recording Order

Record the lines from the bottom up, casting a total of six times: - First cast → Bottom line (初爻) - Second cast → Second line (二爻) - Third cast → Third line (三爻) - Fourth cast → Fourth line (四爻) - Fifth cast → Fifth line (五爻) - Sixth cast → Top line (上爻)

Method of Setting Up the Hexagram

After casting the hexagram, it must be "set up" by assigning each line with celestial stems, earthly branches, the Six Relations, and other relevant details:

1. Assign Earthly Branches (Nà Jiǎ)

Assign earthly branches to each line based on the corresponding palace.

2. Determine the World and Response Lines

The World Line represents the querent, while the Response Line represents the matter in question or the other party involved.

3. Assign the Six Relations

The Six Relations—Parent, Sibling, Spouse/Wealth, Offspring, and Officer/Ghost—are determined based on the generating and overcoming relationships of the Five Elements.

Important Notes

  1. Sincerity Brings Clarity: Approach divination with a sincere and focused mind.
  2. One Matter per Reading: Only ask one question per session.
  3. No Frivolous Divination: Do not treat it as a game or joke.
  4. No Repeated Readings: Avoid repeatedly asking about the same matter.

Tips for Beginners

Beginners should first familiarize themselves with the basics of the Eight Trigrams, then study the Nà Jiǎ method, and finally practice interpreting hexagrams. It is recommended to start with simple "yes or no" questions for practice.