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Chapter 3 of 14
Meihua Yishu — Plum Blossom Divination
Overall Interpretation
When casting a hexagram, the number is divided by eight 🌌. Regardless of the size of the number, eight is used as the base. If the number exceeds eight, divide it by eight and take the remainder as the hexagram number. If it is not divisible, continue dividing by eight until the remainder is less than eight. If the remainder is exactly eight, it corresponds to the Kun hexagram (Earth hexagram), and no further division is needed.
The moving line is determined by dividing by six ⚡. Divide the total number of the hexagram by six and take the remainder as the moving line. If the total number is less than six, use it directly as the moving line. If it exceeds six, divide by six and take the remainder. If the moving line is a Yang line, it changes to a Yin line, and vice versa, while also considering the time factor.
The mutual hexagram uses only the eight trigrams (e.g., Qian, Kun), not the full names of the 64 hexagrams. The mutual hexagram is formed by removing the first and sixth lines of the hexagram and dividing the middle four lines into two trigrams. Additionally, the Qian and Kun hexagrams do not have mutual hexagrams; instead, the transformed hexagram is used.
Year-Month-Day-Hour Method:
Object Number Divination:
For countable objects, use the quantity to determine the upper trigram, the time number to determine the lower trigram, and the total number divided by six to determine the moving line.
Sound Divination:
Upon hearing sounds, count the number of sounds to determine the upper trigram, and add the time number to determine the lower trigram. Sounds such as animal calls or human-made noises can be counted for hexagram casting.
Word Divination:
When observing text, if the number of characters is even, divide them equally into upper and lower trigrams. If uneven, use the smaller number for the upper trigram (symbolizing the lightness of heaven) and the larger number for the lower trigram (symbolizing the heaviness of earth).
Measurement Divination:
Divination for Others:
Various methods:
Self-Divination:
Use the Year-Month-Day-Hour method, sounds, or external objects to cast a hexagram, following the same methods as divination for others.
Animal Divination:
Groups of animals are not used for hexagram casting; for a single animal, use the animal type for the upper trigram and its direction of approach for the lower trigram, adding the time to determine the line. Interpret the overall hexagram. Examples: divination based on a cow's moo or a chicken's crow. Alternatively, use the birth year-month-day-hour or the time of purchase.
Static Object Divination:
Natural features like rivers, mountains, or rocks are not used for hexagram casting; for houses or trees, use the time of construction or planting; for objects, use the time of creation, such as pillows or chairs. Divination is not performed without reason. Exceptions include divination based on observed events, such as sparrows fighting on a branch and falling (as in "Observing Plum Blossoms"), divination upon inquiry (as in "Peonies"), or divination after a tree branch withers and falls (as in "Lush Trees").
Core Concept 💡
The essence of hexagram casting lies in the symbolic transformation of numbers and phenomena, converting real-world quantities, sounds, words, etc., into Yi Jing hexagrams. Through division and remainders, the hexagram lines are determined, reflecting the unity of "image, number, and principle" in Yi studies. It emphasizes flexibility and context adaptability, using different methods for different situations, with the core being to capture the present "opportunity" (timing and signs).
Modern Interpretation 🌟
In a modern context, these hexagram-casting methods can be viewed as decision-making tools or reflective frameworks. For example:
In practice, it is advisable to combine logical analysis: For example, after casting a hexagram, avoid blind belief and instead use it as a brainstorming tool to list possible options and risks.
Practical Value ⚡
Avoid superstition: Treat it as a structured thinking exercise rather than a prophecy. Adopt an empirical attitude: Record hexagram results and compare them with actual outcomes to gradually refine the process.
Philosophical Reflection 🤔
Hexagram-casting methods embody the philosophy of "change" in Yi studies—the world's phenomena can be transformed into symbols, revealing complex relationships through simple rules (e.g., division by eight or six). This reflects the ancient view of the unity of heaven and humanity, where numbers are not just measurements but metaphors for cosmic order. From a modern perspective, this resembles "simplified models" in systems theory, using limited variables to capture infinite possibilities. Simultaneously, it emphasizes the importance of "timing" (e.g., adding time to determine lines), echoing modern emphasis on timing and context. Deep reflection: Hexagram casting is not about predicting fate but encouraging active participation in change through symbolic interaction, blending subjective and objective elements.
Related Knowledge 📚