Understanding the Structure of the I-Ching

The I-Ching is divided into two main sections: the upper canon, which contains the first 30 hexagrams, and the lower canon, comprising the remaining 34. The upper canon primarily explores the cycles of light and darkness and the dynamics between heaven and earth, while the lower canon focuses on human interactions and affairs. Each hexagram is constructed from two trigrams, with each trigram consisting of three yao (lines). As an illustration, consider Hexagram 42, known as Yi, which translates to "Increasing."

Hexagram 42: The Concept of Increase

The I-Ching's 64 hexagrams represent every possible combination of six yao. Alfred Huang, author of "The Complete I-Ching," highlights that each symbol can be viewed as a formula representing a changing situation and its implications. Mastery of the I-Ching involves understanding the eight primary gua, the significance of the hexagrams' names and symbols, and the relationships among the 386 yao.

What's remarkable about the I-Ching is its mathematical foundation, allowing for various interpretations. Those who truly grasp the text can intuitively derive meanings from the hexagram's line structure.

Casting the I-Ching for Guidance

To gain insights from this ancient wisdom, one must perform a "casting." This can be a straightforward process. Begin by formulating a specific question and concentrating on it. While various methods exist, the simplest approach involves tossing three coins six times according to these rules:

• Two heads and one tail yield a lesser yang (?)
• Two tails and one head yield a lesser yin (?)
• Three tails indicate a greater yang (?*)
• Three heads indicate a greater yin (?*)

The resulting hexagram is constructed from the bottom up. If the hexagram contains any greater yang or greater yin lines, specific rules determine how to interpret these changing lines, which invert to transform the hexagram, providing deeper insights into the reading.

Once the hexagram is established, it can be referenced in the I-Ching, revealing multiple layers of wisdom about the posed question. Each hexagram comes with a decision—King Wen's interpretation of the structure. For instance, Hexagram 42's decision states:

Increasing.

Favorable to have somewhere to go.

Favorable to cross great rivers.

Additionally, Confucius provides a commentary that elaborates on the decision, beginning as follows:

Increasing.

To decrease what is above

Is to increase what is lower.

The Joy of the people is boundless.

Interpreting the Oracle

The interpretation of the oracle ultimately lies with the caster, who must discover their own method of engagement. The simplest approach is to read the decision derived from the hexagram.

Various techniques for casting the I-Ching exist. Daily casts can serve as reflective exercises, while longer-term inquiries may yield forecasts for the future. The hexagram's structure is crucial for interpretation; its lines' positions and relationships convey significant meaning. For Yang lines, ideal positions are the 1st, 3rd, and 5th; for Yin lines, they are the 2nd, 4th, and 6th.

Another relevant aspect is the correspondence of lines. As Huang notes, favorable responses occur when the lines align correctly within their respective trigrams.

A fresh perspective can also be gained by examining the hexagram's inverse. For example, the inverse of Hexagram 42 is Hexagram 32 (Long Lasting), derived by inverting each yao.

The fundamental method of casting and interpreting the I-Ching relies on the three-coin technique and analyzing the resulting decision, although this may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the cast. Personally, I have found this practice beneficial during uncertain times, often prompting thought-provoking insights regarding my questions.

Casting for 2021: A Glimpse into the Future

At the dawn of the new year, I decided to cast a hexagram for 2021, asking, "What can we expect from this year?" The result was Hexagram 11: Advance, which I subsequently displayed on my wall due to its encouraging message. This hexagram symbolizes the union of Heaven and Earth.

Advance.

The little is departing,

The great is arriving.

Good fortune.

Prosperous and smooth.

In this context, 'the little' may refer to negative aspects, misfortunes, or shortcomings that are fading away, while positive developments are on the horizon. This hexagram is particularly noteworthy as all lines correspond favorably, and it contains no changing lines. The lower trigram, representing Heaven, and the upper trigram, representing Earth, unite to create a complete gua, offering a hopeful outlook for all in 2021.

This gua emphasizes the importance of unity among individuals. When people engage sincerely and honestly, harmony flourishes, enabling smooth progress.

The inverse gua, Hexagram 12, symbolizes Hinderance, presenting a contrasting view to Hexagram 11. Its decision includes notions of "unfavorable to superior persons," reflecting the challenges faced in 2020.

Indeed, 2020 was a difficult year. However, the casting of Hexagram 11 signals a shift from the turmoil of the past to a more harmonious 2021. A low must precede a high.

To conclude, here is Confucius' insightful commentary on Hexagram 11: Advance.

Advance.

The little is departing,

The great is arriving.

Good fortune.

Prosperous and smooth.

Heaven and Earth unite;

All beings come into union.

The upper and lower connect;

Their intentions align.

The inner is yang; the outer is yin.

The inner is strong; the outer is gentle.

The inner is superior; the outer is inferior.

Thus,

The path of the superior expands;

The path of the inferior diminishes.

The Wisdom of the I-Ching Explored

The first video titled "What is I-Ching (Book of Changes)?" provides a detailed overview of the I-Ching and its significance in divination practices.

The second video "Ursula Brasch — I Ching – The Book of Changes" delves deeper into the philosophies behind the I-Ching and its practical applications.