Would you like to have a wise life guide, available with their reliable answers all day long, 24/7? Wouldn’t be great to ask him or her any question related to your life challenges, relationship issues, important decisions, or virtually anything else that your curiosity might demand? Yes, it is absolutely possible with the ancient Chinese book of wisdom, called the I Ching. You can communicate with it pretty easily using various tools which I will present later on.
The process of consulting the I Ching is not some mumbo-jumbo. It is a serious process of learning in which we are facing our own responsibility for life. We are also learning to open our minds, to question everything, to embrace both our excellence and vulnerability, and, most importantly, to open our hearts. It’s an ancient practice of tapping into a vast field of wisdom and knowledge, the knowledge which is already present in ourselves and in the collective consciousness of the Mankind. The process of consulting the I Ching is not some mumbo-jumbo. It is a serious process of learning in which we are facing our own responsibility for life. We are also learning to open our minds, to question everything, to embrace both our excellence and vulnerability, and, most importantly, to open our hearts.
I was convinced in all of this repeatedly for the last twenty-five or so years. When I encountered the Book for the first time, I was suspicious and even derisive of it. However, after some time, I realized that “there was something to it.” Not only that, I had been increasingly amazed at the depth and profoundness of its symbolic guidance. Over time, it has greatly contributed to my spiritual and emotional maturity and I’ve seen that same effect on other people as well.
So, the Book of Changes or I Ching is not a usual book. In fact, it is a comprehensive philosophical system which covers virtually all aspects of life and existence in general, with its 8 basic “trigrams” (compositions of three different horizontal lines) and 64 “hexagrams” (each consisting of six lines). Therefore, it is not primarily intended for divination. It is a deep and complex philosophical and spiritual teaching. You can do both – read it and ask it for answers. Nevertheless, its coaching power is immense. Its symbolical responses are intricate and multi-layered, with both direct meaning related to the question and the description of the overall situation, its various aspects, and advice what to do and how to behave. The Book’s answers consist of one or two hexagrams, each with a symbolic meaning that can be applied to virtually every life situation. I know that many of you are eager to find out how to get these wise answers, but still, I would strongly recommend that you first delve a little bit into the Book’s metaphysical foundations, in order to adjust your subconscious mind to its powerful collective energy. By doing this way, you will more easily establish an effective communication, pose the best questions and understand the Book’s responses. The Book’s answers consist of one or two hexagrams, each with a symbolic meaning that can be applied to virtually every life situation.
Fundamental Concepts of the Book
The I Ching is based on the Taoist understanding of changes of the two basic aspects of existence - Yin (female, passive principle) and Yang (male, active principle), and their dynamic relationship. Yin and Yang are seemingly two opposites, but essentially, they are two complementary images of the same underlying reality. In ancient China, this reality is called Tao. The I Ching is based on the Taoist understanding of changes of the two basic aspects of existence - Yin (female, passive principle) and Yang (male, active principle), and their dynamic relationship.
The Tai Chi symbol usually represents their dynamic interrelationship:
The Tai Chi symbol tells us that these two basic forces are always interconnected and fluctuating. When you go around the circle of the symbol, you will see that one of them is getting stronger, while the other is decreasing, and vice versa. The dots inside each of them represent the seeds of the other force, arising within it.
The message is deep, yet quite simple: life is based on two complementary, indivisible principles, active and passive. They are always changing. When one of them is at its peak, it will inevitably transform into its opposite. The other principle arises. The message of Yin and Yang to all of us, in all circumstances, is simple, yet enlightening: This, too, shall pass. Characteristics of Two Basic Principles The following characteristics are attributed to Yin and Yang: Yin: Female, Passive, Dark, Material, Earth, Negative, Low, Smooth, Warm Yang: Male, Active, Bright, Spiritual, Celestial, Positive, High, Strong, Cold Above stated features never imply anything bad or wrong. Even the “dark,” “cold or “negative” do not really mean something bad. They are simply neutral attributes that can be considered as “good” or “bad” only by the limited human mind in specific conditions. The two fundamental principles are being represented by two types of lines: broken (yin) and solid (yang) line, as shown in the figures below.
These two types of lines may form the so-called “trigrams” (compositions of three successive lines) or “hexagrams” (combinations of six consecutive lines). Here is an example of trigram:
Now, let's take a look at a hexagram:
We use hexagrams for interpreting the Book’s answers. They are the symbolical “language” of the Book.
Every hexagram has its own symbolical meaning, originally expressed with verses within the so-called “Judgment,” and within “Image” as well. We read these verses and their commentaries and extract the information we need in our specific life circumstances. For example, these are the original verses of the hexagram from the above example (number 55, Abundance): Judgment Abundance has success. The king attains abundance. Be not sad. Be like the sun at midday. The Image Both thunder and lightning come: the image of Abundance. Thus the superior man decides lawsuits and carries out punishments. Confucius’ Commentaries: The greatness of Expansion of Awareness is due to Movement directed by Clarity. Although the king has attained this state, he must still make it greater. But there is no need for anxiety -- let him be as the sun at noon: let his clarity shine on all under the sky. As soon as sun and moon reach zenith their light begins to wane. The intercourse of heaven and earth alternates between abundance and scarcity. It waxes and wanes according to the seasons. How much more so with men or spiritual forces! Perhaps this means nothing to you at the moment. But when you try to connect these symbolic sentences to a specific life situation, you might come with incredible insights. Every hexagram has its own symbolical meaning, originally expressed with verses within the so-called “Judgment,” and within “Image” as well. We read these verses and their commentaries and extract the information we need in our specific life circumstances.
One more thing: We identify hexagrams primarily with their numbers, then with their names. Numbers are typically required because the names are differently translated from the ancient Chinese language and its characters. But the numbers are the same in all versions.
The Purpose The Book of Changes is not intended for predicting the future (or divination). Frequent attempts to use this book for divination purposes are the result of human aspirations to make the future “visible,” and, on the other hand, for the needs of personal promotion and acquiring material wealth by various “prophetic” activities. Unfortunately, this “prophetic feature” is the most promoted aspect of the I Ching nowadays. The Book contains the essence of life wisdom. It is a philosophical and spiritual system on its own. Moreover, according to many, it should be the foundation of the moral values of all humanity. It can also be the source of wisdom for daily life, and hence for one's spiritual development. Each hexagram is a jewel of immeasurable value. It contains the entire universe in itself, viewed from one of the 64 possible “vantage points.” Every hexagram contains messages that may relate to every aspect of human life, and not only life but also the reality in general. Each hexagram is a jewel of immeasurable value. It contains the entire universe in itself, viewed from one of the 64 possible “vantage points.”
The wisdom of I Ching is being applied far better as advice than prophecy. If asked for a prophecy, however, the Book will give a genuine advice to the person who asked the question, and that advice might be seen as the prophecy. Additionally, the questioner must have a clear mind at that moment, free from desires and fears related to the question. But, if that answer is considered as the prophecy, then nothing is really solved.
If asked for a prophecy, however, the Book will give a genuine advice to the person who asked the question, and that advice might be seen as the prophecy.
The important thing to know here is this: The predicted future event derived from the Book’s advice can be changed, and that depends only on to the person concerned.
Hence, every answer gotten from the Book is a piece of invaluable advice, that even might look like a prophecy (which is not). The predicted future event derived from the Book’s advice can be changed, and that depends only on to the person concerned.
There are some barriers that prevent the person to remove the veil of the future. Although those barriers are invisible to us, they are still very real. In many situations, it is not advisable for the individual to see clearly their (or someone else’s) future because in that case the life lessons wouldn’t be learned. Therefore, the answers to requests for prophecy in some cases will be vague and incomprehensible. For this reason, it is best to approach the Book with a request for an advice, because in that case, the person puts himself into a position of the conscious creator of his own reality, rather than putting himself into a position of reacting to externally imposed conditions, which is inevitably associated with foretelling.
Synchronicity and Hologram But how can the meaningful communication with the Book be possible whatsoever? During your consultation, you will get some seemingly random numbers or random configuration of coins or dice. Then you convert those numbers or the specific configuration into hexagrams, by applying given rules. You may wonder - how on Earth can that be reliable? There are many possibilities how to explain the accuracy of responses given by the I Ching. Personally, I am inclined to explain it with the help of the concepts of “synchronicity” and “hologram.” The typical understanding of space and time implies a causal chain of events, like trajectories of balls on the pool table – if you know the path of the first ball, you will be able to accurately predict the subsequent trajectories of all balls will be hit. However, science, primarily referring to classical physics, which itself is based on this view of events, came to the irrefutable knowledge that causal connections are not the only kind of interconnectedness of events. On the contrary, there is a much deeper, essential connection of all the parts of the universe. This interconnectedness of all is based on the holographic principle and expresses itself through synchronicity. Synchronicity is revealed in simultaneous events that are symbolically equivalent. That equivalence is being recognized within our consciousness. That’s exactly what happens during the communication with the Book of Changes. Synchronicity is an acausal connection between two or more events. Let's say, somewhere far away from us something happened to one of our loved ones, which we simply cannot know of at this point. However, at this moment we are noticing someone or something that reminds us of that person, and in this context, we can anticipate that something has happened to her. Synchronicity is revealed in simultaneous events that are symbolically equivalent. That equivalence is being recognized within our consciousness. That’s exactly what happens during the communication with the Book of Changes.
The meaning of the term "synchronicity" (coincidence, simultaneity, accordance) is generally limited to a meaningful connection between the events in the timeline - in the same or similar point in time.
The concept of synchronicity could also be viewed in a much broader context which is not related to the simultaneity of events. There are many events happening whose meanings somehow predict other events, despite a considerable time distance, while both events are not and cannot be each other's cause and effect. For instance, we may “see” a real-life event in a symbolic form in a dream, which can occur weeks or months before the incident happens. To the viewer’s eye, acausally bonded events always have a certain common characteristic and are often analogous. A similar phenomenon can be found in modern physics – the so-called “quantum entanglement.” It has shown, for example, that if two photons with the same spin are ejected simultaneously from a single source in different directions (that is, they are mutually receding at the speed of light), and if one of them changes its spin, the second one instantly does the same, although no signal could reach from one to the other because of the speed of light limitation. In other words, those two photons are simultaneously changing their spins, although they cannot physically “communicate.” So, on the microscopic level we have the quantum entanglement, while on the macroscopic level, in our everyday lives, we have synchronicity. Essentially, they are the same. In this way, the Book of Changes uses its hexagrams to “predict” events. Nevertheless, this is not a prediction in the usual sense of the word, it's synchronicity. On the microscopic level we have the quantum entanglement, while on the macroscopic level, in our everyday lives, we have synchronicity. Essentially, they are the same.
The concept of synchronicity is closely linked to the concept of hologram. In its original meaning, a hologram is a type of photographic plates in which the three-dimensional information on an object is embedded. When lit by a laser beam, it gives off a 3D image of the object, and, depending on the angle of the laser beam, the 3D object is shown from different sides. What’s interesting is this: when the hologram is broken, each part still gives off the 3D picture of the same whole object, only with reduced resolution.
In our context, a hologram is a unit whose elements have the information on the whole unit. Every part of the unit is again the same whole unit, although a smaller one. However, it might be “lit from another angle,” so that it looks to us differently. The entire universe is a hologram. Even modern physics and neuroscience theorize on this idea. Therefore, each part of it is its minute picture or has the information of the entire universe, similar to fractal structures. Every human being is also a holographic element. Every event, every atom, every entity, all are parts of the universal hologram and by themselves are also holograms. Speaking this way, it’s easy to conclude that each hexagram of the Book of Changes is, in fact, a holographic element in which the information is contained on our subjective universe at the very moment of receiving an answer. Every event, every atom, every entity, all are parts of the universal hologram and by themselves are also holograms. Each hexagram of the Book of Changes is, in fact, a holographic element in which the information is contained on our subjective universe at the very moment of receiving an answer.
So far, I have dealt with some other systems of divination (or systems for exposing the hidden truth, if you want). In my experience, the Book of Changes has been giving by far the clearest and most accurate answers to my questions. If the holographic principle is the general principle applicable to all these systems, the question is why is this so?
The I Ching has an unquestionably great archetypal strength, present in the collective unconscious mind of humanity. It is this archetypal power which allows getting very deep and accurate answers, more than any other system of divination (maybe the practitioners of these other systems would disagree but let them check this claim out). It is this powerful channel, “the beaten track” in the unconscious being of humankind that makes the holographic connection (via synchronicity) between the real situation and the hexagram, so clear and accurate. The I Ching has an unquestionably great archetypal strength, present in the collective unconscious mind of humanity. It is this archetypal power which allows getting very deep and accurate answers.
Getting Answers
Formulating Questions The most important part of the whole consultation process is to formulate the right questions for the Book of Changes. First of all, the question should not be placed without a real necessity. Also, a serious approach to the whole process of consultation is vital; it should not be shallow or too fast. To whom you ask the question exactly? It is advisable to visualize the sage. You may, for instance, imagine that you are directing your question to an East-looking spiritual master who represents the Book of Changes. Behind him, you might visualize a wall or tapestry full of eastern symbols like Tai-Chi symbol, trigrams or hexagrams. Or you may simply look at the physical copy of the Book of Changes in front of you. Or you can imagine it. In that case, it is advisable to feel that within the covers of the Book there is a spiritual force or even personality that corresponds to the ancient I Ching sage. The question should not be placed without a real necessity. Also, a serious approach to the whole process of consultation is vital; it should not be shallow or too fast.
Feel deep respect to this wise master, the Book of Changes. Approach to the Book as it is a wise, enlightened person and your close friend at the same time.
The visualization part of your consultation, along with your seriousness and respect to the process, will help you connect with the I Ching’s archetypal channel within our subconscious collective mind. It is important that the question is as concise and clear as possible. You should not describe the entire situation you are in. Quite the opposite, it is best to specify only the name of the situation (problem), or its outline or main characteristics. Additionally, if applicable, it is advisable to define the time period for your inquiry. The visualization part of your consultation, along with your seriousness and respect to the process, will help you connect with the I Ching’s archetypal channel within our subconscious collective mind.
The question should not be the either-or type. Therefore, we should not ask, “Should I do this or that?” Instead, split the question into two parts, if you really feel that you have only two options ahead. First, formulate a question about “this,” so if you still don’t have a clear answer, ask about “that” – the second option. Compare both responses and select the one that you feel is better for the outcome of what you asked.
Here are some examples of good questions: “How should I approach Melanie in order to increase the chances for a romantic relationship with her?” (NOT “Will I and Melanie get into a romantic relationship?”) “What should I do in order to improve my relationship with my father?” “What is your advice for finding the best strategic partner for my IT company in the next two months?” “What Marc can do to overcome those obstacles to the realization of his new project?” “What is your advice for passing the exam tomorrow?” (NOT “Will I pass the exam tomorrow?”) A serious approach to the Book of Changes also means that the same question is never posed again for the same circumstances (except a similar one – only if advised by the Book itself, i.e. when you get the hexagram number 8, “Unity”). It can be posed maybe later, if circumstances change so that this same question now had a different meaning and connotation. That is why, among other things, it is also important to deeply concentrate during the consultation with the Book. Without such an approach, if one is not satisfied with the answer, he or she often falls into a temptation to ask the same question hoping to get a better hexagram, justifying to themselves that they “weren’t sufficiently focused’’ during the first consultation. But that's just an excuse. If the answer is obtained, however, it should be extremely seriously considered and analyzed. A serious approach to the Book of Changes also means that the same question is never posed again for the same circumstances.
I must admit that I had been caught up in this trap many times. I used to recklessly ask the same or reformulated questions over and over until I got “positive” answers. What happens in such cases? Seemingly, the Book stops responding. But that’s not the case. It still responds, but then it reveals other layers of multi-faceted holographic reality, which are less and less probable as we repeat the questions. Lastly, it informs us of the exact desired reality, still possible for us, but the least likely to materialize. Yet, even in such answers, it gives us advice how we could still fulfill our desire, although in a very difficult way.
Classical Methods of Obtaining Answers OK, we are visualizing the sage in front of us and we pose the question. But how to get the actual answer? There are many methods of doing that. The Book’s answer can be obtained with or without physical tools. I’ll explain a method of gaining the advice without any physical tools later. When we are talking about the physical tools for the I Ching divination, there is a big variety of them: classical, such as sticks or coins, or new, “non-conventional,” such as dice, calculator, and so on. The Book’s answer can be obtained with or without physical tools.
Yarrow Sticks
The oldest procedure for obtaining answers uses yarrow sticks, which are actually stalks of the plant called Achillea millefolium. This is a relatively complex procedure, which requires considerable time and completely peaceful and holy atmosphere for the consultation. It is recommended to apply it from time to time in order to foster and deepen the personal relationship and commitment toward the Book. It is described in the book "I Ching, the Book of Change" by John Blofeld, "I Ching, the Book of Changes" by Richard Wilhelm, as well as in many other books. Tossing-up Coins One of the older methods for getting answers is a procedure with coins. It is still popular due to its simplicity and comprehensibility. For this procedure, you need three coins of the same size, regardless of their kind. One of the older methods for getting answers is a procedure with coins. It is still popular due to its simplicity and comprehensibility.
Here is the procedure:
1. Prepare a pen and paper. Sit down at the table or in front of a completely flat surface. 2. Write your question at the top of the paper. It is strongly recommended that you comply with all of the above advice related to the formulation of questions. 3. Bend the upper part of the sheet so that the question is hidden. 4. Empty your mind for ten or so seconds. Address the Book of Changes with these words (you can speak for yourself): “I Ching (or, if you like: Teacher), what do you advise me about that-and-that?” At the same time feel the deepest possible respect for the Book. 5. Take the coins in both hands. Concentrate on the issue. Let it permeate your mind completely. When you feel that you are fully imbued with the question, shake the coins and toss them to the surface in front of you. 6. The constellation of coins that came by your first throwing marks the first (lowest) line of the hexagram. Immediately write that line down, in the following manner:
Repeat the procedure described in the previous two steps five more times. Draw lines respectively from the bottom up, until you get the whole hexagram, composed of six lines.
If you get a hexagram that contains only stable lines, then it means that you got the so-called static (or “destiny”) hexagram. If you get a hexagram that contains only stable lines, then it means that you got the so-called static (or “destiny”) hexagram.
New Ways of Getting Answers
Using Tools For those people aiming at quick and easily obtained answers, I would recommend two ways of divination:
Using One of the I Ching Apps or Online Tools Nowadays, I’m usually using the iOS app called “Yi Jing” for this purpose. It’s easy to handle and has a great library of I Ching versions, with several versions for free. All you have to do is:
Nowadays, I’m usually using the iOS app called “Yi Jing” for this purpose. It’s easy to handle and has a great library of I Ching versions.
The text of the first hexagram will automatically appear, and if your answer has another hexagram, you will simply have to tap on appropriate tabs for the changing lines and for the second hexagram.
There are many similar apps on all stores for all operating systems, and the majority of them are free, with in-app purchases. I recommend downloading and testing several of them, in order to choose the one which is most suitable for you. However, do not waste too much time with weighing which one is the best. Just pick one of them and go with it. Additionally, there are numerous tools for getting answers online, such as ichingonline.net, onlineclarity.co.uk, castingiching.com, etc. You will find all needed explanations there. Calculator This is the new way of getting answers and this is the very first time it’s being presented publicly. It is also a simple method. Of course, you will need a physical calculating device, or a calculator app on your smartphone, tablet or computer. The procedure is the following:
This way you will get a six-digit number that corresponds to one of sixty-four hexagrams (since hexagram has six lines). This number will give you even an additional information on changing lines and the second hexagram. But how will you extract the information on the hexagrams from that one 6-digit number? It’s easy:
So, if you get, say, these six numbers: 701259 – you will actually get a hexagram consisting of these lines, from the bottom up: solid, broken, solid, broken, solid, solid. In this example, it is the hexagram called “Family.”
In our example, we will have changing lines on the second and third place in the first hexagram, so we will get the second hexagram named “Inner Truth”, consisting of these lines: solid, solid, broken, broken, solid, solid. Naturally, in order to read and interpret the meaning of hexagrams and lines related to your question, it is required that you get a physical or electronic copy of the of I Ching (unless you know the text by heart). In order to read and interpret the meaning of hexagrams and lines related to your question, it is required that you get a physical or electronic copy of the of I Ching.
Classically presented, the answer would consist of two hexagrams:
The first hexagram in the answer basically gives us an advice on the current situation, and the second represents a guidance on the future state.
I will also explain the so-called “Hexad,” the row of six hexagrams that you can always extrapolate from two “classically viewed” hexagrams. But more on this later on. The first hexagram in the answer basically gives us an advice on the current situation, and the second represents a guidance on the future state.
Using a Dice Set
This method is also nee and unique, and you will not find it anywhere else. It is a very neat and interesting way of getting answers, definitely more suitable for people not inclined to technology. To begin with, we will need six dice[1]. For this purpose, it is important to choose a set of dice in which each cube has its unique color. Why? Each of the six differently colored cubes represents one particular line in the hexagram. In this way, the color of the dice determines its peculiarity and based on it, we can accurately determine which dice corresponds to which line of a hexagram. [1] Dice - a small cube with each side having a different number of spots on it, ranging from one to six, thrown and used in gambling and other games involving chance. Each of the six differently colored cubes represents one particular line in the hexagram.
Before we start consulting the Book of Changes with the help of cubes, we need to determine which dice corresponds to which line of hexagrams. We will do it at will, but once we determine this schedule, we should not change it, at least not often.
For example:
Let’s say that, for us, the first (lowest) line of the hexagram corresponds always to the red dice, the second - always white, the third - yellow, the fourth - blue, the fifth - pink and the sixth (the highest line) - the black dice.
It's getting clearer. We have determined which numbers in the cubes correspond to the solid lines of hexagrams and which are broken. I suggest that the student link the solid lines to odd numbers (male, yang) and the broken lines to even numbers (female, yin). Thus, 1, 3, and 5 correspond to solid lines, while 2, 4, and 6 correspond to broken ones. It remains to define which specific numbers correspond to unstable (changing) lines. Here one should take into account which of the given numbers for her represent the peak of the yang or yin principle. For me, this is 1 and 2, for someone else it could be 5 and 6, or 3 and 4, or even some other combination, depending on personal inclination. Let us take 1 and 2 in this case. Now let's take another example. We empty the mind for a while, ask the question, concentrate, throw dice (all six cubes at once, mandatory on a flat surface) and get the following combination: blue - 3, red - 2, black - 6, yellow - 1, pink - 2 and red - 5. Let's sort the dice set in order, from the bottom up:
Classically presented, the answer would look like this:
Getting Answers Without Aids
Imagine the possibility to consult the Book anytime, anywhere, in any situation, without any tools. It's possible, you can get the answer directly in your mind! There is no dependence on external devices, there is no fear that we will forget to bring a calculator or dice with us - the answer is obtained in our mind. Again, this is a totally new and unique way of consulting the Book, not findable anywhere else. Here it is for you. Imagine the possibility to consult the Book anytime, anywhere, in any situation, without any tools. It's possible, you can get the answer directly in your mind!
Put in your question to the Book of Changes. The procedure is the same as for the other ways of consultation – it is vital to relax, empty the mind for a while, and concentrate well on the question. When you feel that you are completely “submerged” into the question, list in a series of six numbers. Don’t worry whether you listed the “right” numbers or not, simply say six random numbers as they "come" to you. This way you get the Initial String.
For example: 2, 9, 1, 7, 8, 0. When receiving the answer from the Book, it is most important to get a sequence of six random numbers. Since many numbers pass through our minds during the day, and even the series of connected numbers, there is a real possibility that the series that we get from within ourselves is "distorted", "spoiled" with all-day impressions. For example, if we often use the phone, it is possible that the series we get (when consulting the Book of Changes) is the same or very similar to one of our favorite phone numbers. Such a series is not a random sequence. In order to really get a "clean" answer, we need to enter a correction in the Initial String: a sequence of 6 letters, A or B. So, as soon as we get the Initial String in the mind, we continue to concentrate on the question. We then enumerate a new series consisting of 6 random letters, A or B, which will change the values of the Initial String. For example, the following series has come to our mind: A, B, B, B, A, B. We will call it the Correcting String. For the first few consultations, it is advisable to put these two series (the Initial String and the Correcting String) on paper in order to “get in” the procedure. In the future, we will easily be able to carry out the whole process in the mind. Let's put both sets next to each other, like this:
So, wherever “A” is in the Correcting String – the corresponding number of the Initial String remains the same, and where there is “B” – the value of 3 is added up to the matching number of the Initial String. However, when the total sum for the final number exceeds 9, the countdown starts again from zero, ie. we take only the last digit of the total sum for that number (10 becomes 0, 11 becomes 1, and 12 transforms into 2). So:
From the above example, we get the final sequence: 2 2 4 0 8 3, i.e. the first hexagram.
Classically presented, the answer would look like this:
Originally, I used only 0 and 1 numerical values for the Corrective String. However, I realized that my conscious mind immediately “adapts,” instantly and easily recalculates the value of the corresponding number from the Initial String and immediately begins to “construct” the desired value, i.e. hexagram. The basic principle of obtaining random numbers has been violated. To overcome this issue, I introduced a series of letters for correction. The letter “A” gave value 0, while the letter “B” was +1. Still, it was not enough. I also felt the need for some numbers of the Initial String not only to change parity, but also to change the “stability.” By changing the value of the letter “B” to +3, this problem was resolved.
So, why set the value of 3 to the B letter? Because the conscious mind cannot easily and thoroughly predict the final outcome. Second, +1 has no "capacity" to change at the same time:
So, by adding 3 to the initial number, the latter changes from even to odd (or vice versa) and can “become” an unstable line (and vice versa). For someone else, it would be even more appropriate to introduce, for example, the values of +5 or +7 for the letter B. Also, for the Corrective String, more letters can be taken that will have their own special values. For example: C = -3, D = +5, E = -6, F = +7, and so on. Although the calculation of the Final String would consequently become pretty complicated, such a way of defining Correction can be of use to ensure the principle of obtaining random numbers. After a certain practice, it is possible that the practitioner finds that in this procedure she does not need a Corrective String at all. In this case, to shorten the procedure, the Initial String becomes immediately the Final String. If the Practitioner proves herself with certainty that the answers obtained in this way are “true,” such a procedure is justified. Every practitioner has before her a practically unlimited field of creative research to improve the communication with the Book of Changes. Interpreting Answers So, you have gotten your answer. As shown above, it usually consists of two hexagrams. But how to interpret these hexagrams? What do they represent? What are they talking to us? In this lengthy article, I will not cover my own interpretations of the 64 hexagrams, which can sometimes be pretty different from the existing translations. Therefore, I would recommend finding the texts of the hexagrams online. Sometimes, however, you will not be able to understand the response immediately. And if you got two hexagrams, you will have to contemplate not only both texts but also the changing lines of the first hexagram. The text of the hexagram and their changing lines were originally written in verses which convey the core meanings and ideas. These texts are symbolical and somewhat strange to the logical way of thinking. So, be open-minded. Luckily, there are many translations and versions of the Book out there. If you are not sure of the meaning of your answer, pick up a few different versions and go through your obtained hexagram(s). The text of the hexagram and their changing lines were originally written in verses which convey the core meanings and ideas. These texts are symbolical and somewhat strange to the logical way of thinking. So, be open-minded.
Let the first version be a classical translation, and after that, you may pass through one of the modern interpretations. By doing that way, you will first glimpse into the original symbolic message and will possibly have the “A-ha” moment, as the symbol can cover wide areas of life. Then you will delve into a more detailed, in-depth discourse of the contemporary interpretation.
To my experience, one of the best classical versions is definitely the Richard Wilhelm’s translation: I Ching, the Book of Changes. It has the full symbolic text of all the hexagrams and changing lines, plus their in-depth explanations. It also covers the Book’s commentaries by the ancient Chinese sage Confucius. To my experience, one of the best classical versions is definitely the Richard Wilhelm’s translation: I Ching, the Book of Changes.
There are two more versions (above mentioned) that have also been very, very useful to me: Carol K. Anthony: A Guide to the I Ching, and R.L. Wing: The I Ching Workbook. They are really creative approaches to the ancient wisdom. While covering many aspects of everyday human life, they are very practical, yet deeply spiritual at the same time. What I like the most, they always focus on the questioner’s own responsibility. Highly recommended.
Here are some useful links where you can find some of the above-mentioned translations: http://www.jamesdekorne.com/GBCh/ichingdl.htm http://ichingfortune.com/hexagrams.php http://accesschinese.com/divination/iching/64-hexagrams.php?presentnum=999999 Generally speaking, the first hexagram gives us advice on the present situation, changing lines give us some additional directions what to do in the framework of that situation, while the second hexagram advises us about the future that is related to our question. If we get only one hexagram, which relatively rarely happens, it means that your life situation is almost “locked.” Such a hexagram is called the “destiny hexagram.” It usually signifies a long-term condition, which is quite hard to change. We normally analyze only the text of that hexagram, not its lines. Generally speaking, the first hexagram gives us advice on the present situation, changing lines give us some additional directions what to do in the framework of that situation, while the second hexagram advises us about the future that is related to our question.
So, when you get your answer, find your hexagrams in the Book and the changing lines; read the text, keeping in mind your question. Pass open-mindedly through the paragraphs of your answer. Read the hexagram again. And again.
The “A-ha” moment will inevitably come. You will see the whole picture of your situation and clearly understand what to do and how to do it. You will realize the inner workings behind the scene, the hidden causes of your problems and get a grasp on your role. Pass open-mindedly through the paragraphs of your answer. Read the hexagram again. And again. The “A-ha” moment will inevitably come.
Example:
Many years ago, I posed the following question to the Book: “What happens to people after their physical death?” and received this answer: Decrease (41) → Youthful Folly (4) These are two "primary" hexagrams, according to the classical method of interpreting the answers. They look like this:
This response, interpreted in a classic way, basically tells us that there are “two phases” related to the question. The first phase is usually the present situation, the profile of the current state of affairs related to the question. It is represented by the first hexagram of the answer, and in this case it is the hexagram number 41, Decrease.
We also have to examine the changing lines of the first hexagram, that normally convey some useful pieces of advice for the questioner and their current situation. The second phase is, naturally, the future situation and the corresponding advice. As we can expect, it is covered by the second hexagram, which is here the number 4, Youthful Folly. Therefore, there are three things we have to consider in every answer:
1. Let us examine the first hexagram. What does Decrease mean for the dying people? As mentioned before, the core messages of any hexagram are comprised in the so-called “Judgment” and “Image.” In this case, the Judgment and the Image of the hexagram Decrease, as translated by Richard Wilhelm (to the German language, and subsequently by Ms. Baynes into English) are: Judgment: Decrease combined with sincerity brings about supreme good fortune without blame. One may be persevering in this. It furthers one to undertake something. How is this to be carried out? One may use two small bowls for the sacrifice. Image: At the foot of the mountain, the lake: the image of Decrease. Thus the superior man controls his anger and restrains his instincts. This hexagram is telling us that there are decrease and sacrifice, yet they are not considered as something tragical or negative. Also, when we ponder the there is a sense of loss, as one solid line on the top of the hexagram “has left” the other two solid lines on the bottom. But that is a kind of loss which is natural and not to be considered as tragic. The symbolic picture of one solid (active) line “going up” and leaving the other two solid lines behind, very clearly depicts leaving one’s body, raising up and entering the heavens, whatever that could mean. Moreover, we can take into consideration some other names of the hexagram, like Compensating Sacrifice, The Symbol of Lessening, Loss, Diminishing, Reduction, Diminution of Excesses, Decline, Bringing into Balance, Dynamic Balance, Sacrifice, and the statement about it by D.F. Hook: "Not necessarily material loss. Can mean decreasing the lower self to increase the higher." We see that this process is not something bad per se, as the dying person obviously enters the higher realms of existence. Although death inevitably brings about sadness and grief to the family members and friends, dying is not the real end. It is a transition. Therefore, there are three things we have to consider in every answer:
2. In order to continue with interpreting the answer, we have to consider the meaning of the unstable (changing) lines. In this case, only the first line is unstable. So, the corresponding text in the Wilhelm/Baynes’ translation is:
Going quickly when one's tasks are finished is without blame. But one must reflect on how much one may decrease others. What does this mean? Interestingly, it is a direct advice to any dying person. Perhaps they will face the situation in which they will have to choose between returning to the physical plane immediately after dying “clinically” (i.e. to stay alive) and entering the higher realms of existence (i.e. irreversible death, from the point of view of those on the physical plane). And if they have any important unfinished tasks or obligations, it will be better to come back, stay alive and do what is still needed in this lifetime. They also have to consider how much they will afflict their loved ones. This implies that the person will be fully conscious and capable of making decisions. 3. Finally, we have to consider the second hexagram, which name, in this case, is Youthful Folly. What is it telling us? The second hexagram in the classical way of interpretation typically conveys the advice on the future. Therefore, related to our question, it is talking about the next stage of the situation being considered, which means it is describing the near-future of the individual after they die, and of course some advice on that. More precisely, this hexagram is informing us on the state of consciousness of the dying (or died) person. Here are some of the alternative names of the hexagram Youthful Folly: Inexperience, The Symbol of Covering, Immaturity, Uncultivated Growth, Youth, Acquiring Experience, Youthful Ignorance. Here is the Judgment of the symbolic text: Youthful Folly has success. It is not I who seek the young fool; the young fool seeks me. At the first oracle I inform him. If he asks two or three times, it is importunity. If he importunes, I give him no information. Perseverance furthers. The Image: A spring wells up at the foot of the mountain: the image of Youth. Thus the superior man fosters his character by thoroughness in all that he does. The individual finds herself in a completely new reality. Everything is different and unfamiliar to her. She is like a little child, a totally inexperienced person in such surroundings. This hexagram also talks about the Teacher who is available to the inexperienced person with his vast knowledge, and the person has to respect him and listen carefully to his guidance. So, it seems that in the afterlife we will enter a different, new reality. We will have guides and they will be able to teach us about many aspects of that world. We will have so much to learn there. Moreover, there could be an additional layer of the meaning. It could literally mean a new life, reincarnation. However, in this case, I believe this hexagram is more related to an existence between two incarnations, especially because we have a much wider picture shown in the Hexad, which will be elaborated soon. Advanced Study: the Hexad of Change Now, let me explain the concept of a hexad. It is an advanced concept, never used by anyone else before, but to me and my friends, it has proven to be a comprehensive and very useful tool for a wider and deeper view on the whole situation and its many aspects. However, if you are not interested in unconventional and thorough information on the I Ching at this moment, feel free to skip over this section and jump to the last one – the Conclusion. The hexad is a system of six hexagrams that can be developed from the initial two that in the classical sense make the answer. We will use the example mentioned above, the answer to the question “What happens to people after their physical death?” The hexad is a system of six hexagrams that can be developed from the initial two.
Once again, we have two "primary" hexagrams, according to the classical interpretation:
Presented by the hexad, the answer looks like this:
49 → 41 → 24 → 44 → 4 → 31 Where are:
Where did these "new" hexagrams come from? The hexagram number 49, Revolution, is the complementary (opposite) to the hexagram number 4, Youthful Folly:
And here you can see another pair of complementary hexagrams:
Therefore, wherever the solid lines are in the first hexagram, in the complementary hexagram there are broken ones, and vice versa.
In the above answer (41 → 4) the unstable line is at the first, lowest point. In fact, the yang power of the solid line at the first place in hexagram 41 raises to its peak, and thus automatically turns into its opposite – the yin principle of the broken line at the first place of the hexagram 4. Wherever the solid lines are in the first hexagram, in the complementary hexagram there are broken ones, and vice versa.
At their peaks, the yang transforms into yin, yin transforms into yang. So, in this case, the first line of the hexagram 41 is marked by the dynamics of Change. We can consider that dynamics is a feature of the yang (active) principle. In other places there is no dynamics of Change, so we can take it that the “ruler” at those positions is yin (passive) principle. Let us assume that this is the basis of the hexagram “in the shadow,” which determines its dynamics with its very nature, the changeability of the “visible” hexagram, in this case, 41.
At their peaks, the yang transforms into yin, yin transforms into yang.
Thus, we get the so-called First Inner Hexagram – 24, Return (New Beginning).
In the second obtained hexagram (4, Youthful Folly), it is natural that the other 5 lines come to their peaks, which means that in the background of this hexagram the inner hexagram is the 44 Coming to Meet (Contact), which is complementary to the hexagram 24 Return.
In this case, the hexad would look like this:
In this schematic representation of the hexad, each brighter field (square) represents a solid line in a hexagram, while every darker field is a broken line. In this way, all six hexagrams can be displayed together, in a small space. I used to draw the hexad on paper as a 6 x 6 matrix consisting of small circles (empty or full).
Each hexagram in the hexad “covers” a specific part of the overall response. In the hexad table, it can be clearly seen which aspect of the answer applies to each hexagram in the hexad. The striking fact is that two dynamic, so-called “inner” hexagrams (3rd and 4th in the hexad), representing our inner states, are those forces that are decisively changing the situation. Therefore, we decisively affect our own circumstances. We are responsible for our own lives. Two dynamic, so-called “inner” hexagrams (3rd and 4th in the hexad), representing our inner states, are those forces that are decisively changing the situation. Therefore, we decisively affect our own circumstances. We are responsible for our own lives.
There is another hexagram, the so-called Judicial, which includes the meaning of the entire hexad, and in a way, through it, we can see the whole situation from above, “at once,” as if from the top of a high building we are looking at the entire city. It actually consists of all six hexagrams of the hexad. Each hexagram of the hexad, in fact, makes one of its lines.
How do we form the Judicial hexagram? It’s simple: if a hexagram in the hexad is active from the point of view of the whole question, or the situation of the questioner, then this hexagram is actually a yang line at the corresponding place in the Judicial hexagram and vice versa.
First place in the hexad (The first hexagram in the hexad, at the same time the lowest line in the Judicial hexagram):
This part of the answer encompasses aspects of the situation related to what has already happened in the past, or what is materialized, i.e. realized. Since the subconscious mind is the part of our personality based on memories, i.e. the past, the First hexagram often refers to our subconscious. It speaks, causally, of the condition or situation that preceded the present situation. This is the “backbone,” the “ground” on which the present state rests with the Second hexagram in the hexad. It cannot be said that this is the root because the real cause is our experience of this situation (desires and fears). In a word, this hexagram refers to the past. Here we got the hexagram number 49 Revolution, Change. Related to this concrete question, it shows that the state that preceded the current state of dying was a state of momentous change, a state which in itself was unsustainable and required that change. This, in this case, may indicate a disease, aging, or an accident. In any case, the current state of loss was derived from it. Second place in hexad (Second hexagram, at the same time the second line in the Judicial hexagram): In the classical, usual understanding of the answer, this is the first hexagram. It refers to the present state, which, due to its attachment to the past, is often problematic. Emotions are here in the foreground. The situation is usually perceived as a problem, as dangerous. The person is often afraid of coping with the problem, afraid to fall into the abyss, into an unknown. Here the general advice is given in trigram Water - be like water, it is not afraid of depth. Thanks to its adaptable but stable nature (it changes shape but does not change its volume), it fills every hole, as it does not fear anything. If the person is not afraid and has a sincere heart, whatever she does - she will succeed. In this case, it is hexagram number 41, Decrease. Related to this concrete question, it clearly tells us that death is perceived as a problem, an abyss, which is not. Hexagram 41 (Decrease) and its changing line give us valuable information for that seemingly difficult situation. Third place in hexad (Third hexagram, at the same time the third line in the Judicial hexagram): This hexagram is the first “inner” hexagram. Both inner hexagrams speak of a person's inner states related to the external situation. They are dynamic hexagrams, patterns of change, because the person, through his decisions, affects the environment. The Third hexagram (motif hexagram), mainly speaks of our motives, desires, passions, and sometimes of lust. It also speaks of our indecisiveness. In general, it relates to everything that is attractive to us in the present situation, which in fact hinders us to achieve a higher (or further) goal presented by the Sixth Hexagram. The third hexagram tells us of our current desires and incentives, and our indecisiveness or fear to dedicate ourselves to the true, higher goal we truly seek. This hexagram in the hexad is fundamentally linked to two hexagrams in the hexad: the Second and the Sixth hexagram, as the inner experience of the present situation and the goal. Here is the hexagram number 24, Return, New Beginning, Turning Point. In this concrete case, it speaks about people’s inner desire to return to life and all their attachments in this physical world. Sometimes they are indecisive if faced with the imminent choice between returning to life or proceeding into a new, unknown world.
Fourth place in hexad (Fourth hexagram, at the same time the fourth line in the Judicial hexagram):
This hexagram is the second “inner” hexagram – the hexagram of karma. It talks about our fears of change, of the future, of awakening. It also speaks of the internal blockades that are rooted in the past. Therefore, it talks about internal predispositions, about karma. It depicts our fears, inertia, but also the inevitability of our awakening and the need for the leap from lethargy. The Fourth hexagram is actually our inner experience of the present situation viewed from the future viewpoint, of the present that imposes the most appropriate solution, which is depicted by the Fifth hexagram. The Fourth hexagram also talks about the one's Will which is necessary to overcome and scale these inner obstacles, in order to act on the advice of the Fifth hexagram. If for the Third hexagram, generally, it can be said that it mainly relates to what attracts us in the present situation, and is not good for us, the Fourth hexagram can be said to mainly relate to what upsets us in the present situation, and it would be good to overcome. This is hexagram number 44, Encounter, Violation. At this place in the hexad, it talks about the dying person’s fears. He fears of a contact with a dark force, with something unknown to him, yet deeply hidden within himself. Although at first benevolent and unimportant, his deepest fears are will rise. He must boldly face and overcome them, otherwise, that inner states will badly influence the next stage – facing the new, higher reality. In other words, if he does not forgive himself and others, face his own “sins,” mistakes, and other shadows from his past life, and take the responsibility for them, he could face all of that in the outside reality. It could be projected into that higher reality even as a form of temporary “hell.” But don’t worry, that doesn’t happen often to ordinary people. To get into such an experience, you would have to carry with you many really bad decisions and “sins,” and at the same time not be willing to forgive and let them go. Fifth place in hexad (Fifth hexagram, at the same time the fifth line in Judicial hexagram): This hexagram is the second hexagram in the classical analysis of the response obtained. The Fifth hexagram refers to the illumination of the situation, the pure mind and the clear view of the present state, with the focus on the future. It mostly shows us the clearest courses of actions. It points us to the decisions that we need to make because it clearly shows us the most important elements of the situation. With its character and meaning, it is dominant in the whole hexad, because it gives us the fundamental advice. The fifth line is dominant in the vast majority of hexagrams, and since the Fifth hexagram is actually the fifth line of the Judicial hexagram, it is also dominant in the entire hexad. Here it is the hexagram number 4, Inexperience (Immaturity). In the previous section, you can see the explanation of its meaning in this concrete situation. Sixth place in hexad (Sixth hexagram, at the same time the highest line in Judicial hexagram): The Sixth, or the Last hexagram, refers to the future, and this is the future for which the question we asked does not directly relate, therefore, it is largely beyond our current interest. Nevertheless, it is very important from the point of view of the whole of our Individual Universe to which our question relates. It tells us about the perspectives that are given to us in the context of the topic of interest. The sixth hexagram is the hexagram of the idea and purpose of the actions to which the question relates. In the temporal sense, it depicts the farther future, but in a higher sense, freed from time shackles, it is the beginning, the starting point, tells us about the idea – the true driver of the whole situation. It is at the same time the starting point and the end. The Sixth hexagram, in essence, draws our attention to the most spiritual aspects of the topic that interests us. It tells us how much everything we want or do is worth in the supreme, spiritual sense, as spirituality, or the Source, is the Meaning and the Purpose of Life. If we return to the temporal, everyday way of looking at the events that are the subject of our interest, the Sixth hexagram is the last, but not the final hexagram. And after it, the same First hexagram in hexad will come again, but then certainly different. The Sixth hexagram does not end the line, but the circle closes, and the life cycle continues further because only Change is eternal. Here, it is the hexagram number 31, Attraction, Influence. It shows us the final outcome of the dying process – a rebirth of the individual. The future parents of the individual will be mutually attracted and the result will be a child’s birth, beginning of a new life. That child will be the person who has already passed through the process of dying and existing in the “limbo” in-between lives. The influence and magnetism of the conception of the new baby will attract the individual and merge it with the embryo. The new life begins. CONCLUSION Stick with Few Versions The I Ching is constantly changing. More recently, in particular since the appearance of several translations from the Chinese language in the western hemisphere, the Book experiences a real renaissance, as if it is living a new life. In addition to the fact that the translations of the original version themselves differ greatly from one another, there are also a large number of new, different versions that have appeared in the press around the world since then. The texts of the hexagram are interpreted in various ways, paraphrased and expanded, or even replaced with corresponding verses. We certainly can study many books from this field and delve deeply into the world of trigrams and hexagrams. But when it comes to our practical communication with the Book, we need to stick with only two or three versions, at least at the beginning of our practice, otherwise, we will be totally confused. When it comes to our practical communication with the Book, we need to stick with only two or three versions, at least at the beginning of our practice.
Rescuer-Victim Relation
There is always a possibility for an individual to fall into the trap of dependence on another person. It is the Rescuer-Victim relation, present in all kinds of interpersonal relationships, in which the Rescuer and Victim find their motives and “benefit” from the continuation of that relationship. It is certainly easier for the Victim to pass the responsibility for his life to the Rescuer, and to constantly get into troubled situations from which the Rescuer rescues, knowing that he will always do it. On the other hand, the Rescuer strengthens his ego and beautifies his own image of himself in such a way that he is always “human” and “helps others,” and secretly awaits the “repayment of debt” from the Victim in some way. It is precisely in this kind of relationship that many people fall in. Responsibility That happens even with the I Ching and interpreting its advice. It gives answers in such a way that people always have a strong impression that hexagrams are given by a live, conscious being of infinite wisdom. Therefore, it is not surprising that some people tend to hand over the responsibility for their lives to that wise being, the Book of Changes. It becomes their Rescuer, and they develop a strong dependence on its answers. Such people sometimes find a purported I Ching master, who are constantly interpreting the answers of the Book for them. They are dependent on his or her deep “knowledge” of the Book. The supposed master can ruin their lives, as that happens whenever someone transfers the responsibility for their life to another person. That is a dangerous situation too, and it must be avoided at all costs. Also, it is very important to constantly be aware that the questioner can become addicted to the Book of Changes itself. In principle, decisions about her life should be made only with the help of the answers received. It is very important to constantly be aware that the questioner can become addicted to the Book of Changes itself.
It is required that the individual does not ask too many questions to the Book, because otherwise she is in danger of becoming addicted to questions, which is again reduced to the same role of the Rescuer-Victim, and this time the Rescuer is the Book of Changes itself. However, I Ching will not agree to this role. In such situations, the answer obtained is reduced to hexagram number 4 - Inexperience, Immaturity. Of course, the frequency of asking questions depends on the affinity of the questioner herself and does not have to be the determinant of her seriousness.
Before asking a question, it is necessary to prepare in advance for the possibility of receiving an unwanted answer. At least while asking the question, the questioner must overcome his own desire related to the question. It is necessary to be ready in advance both to the desired and unwanted answer. Otherwise, the questioner gets into a danger of receiving hexagram no. 4 - Inexperience, or an answer that is simply a picture of the desire itself. Before asking a question, it is necessary to prepare in advance for the possibility of receiving an unwanted answer. At least while asking the question, the questioner must overcome his own desire related to the question.
Nevertheless, despite the received answer and its interpretation, it is necessary to make the decision on the given situation alone, because otherwise you will fall into the trap of transferring responsibility to another, in this case to the Book of Changes, which again leads to escaping from confrontation with one's own responsibility for their life.
Please share your questions and comments here. You can always contact me if you need some advice regarding the consultations with the I Ching, and for that purpose you can use the contact form on this website. I'll be happy to assist you in your life path toward happiness. However, please keep in mind two things: I really don't have much free time, so my assistance can be free of charge only for the first time. And, more importantly: you are responsible for your own life. Do not hand over that responsibility to anybody or anything. You can be pointed to your path, but you are the one who will have to walk it. You already have all the knowledge and strength within you, they need just to be revealed. Your communication with the Book of Changes can definitely help you in that endeavor. Good luck and have a great day! :-) Nebo
Resources:
Richard Wilhelm's and Cary F. Baynes: The I Ching or Book of Changes Carol K. Anthony: A Guide to the I Ching R.L. Wing: The I Ching Workbook Alfred Huang: The Complete I Ching James Legge: The I Ching: The Book of Changes John Blofeld: I Ching: The Book of Change Michael Servetus: The Gnostic Book of Changes iPhone app by Flat Earth Studio LLC: Yi Jing – I Ching – Book of Changes
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