How to Consult the I Ching: Yarrow Stalks vs Coins

BY NICOLE LAU

The I Ching is not a passive book. You don't just read it—you consult it. You ask a question, perform a ritual, generate a hexagram, and interpret the answer. This process is both divination and meditation, both randomness and meaning, both ancient tradition and personal insight.

But how do you actually do it? There are two main methods: the traditional yarrow stalk method (complex, time-consuming, meditative) and the simplified coin method (quick, accessible, widely used). Each has its advocates and its critics. Traditionalists argue that the yarrow stalk method is more authentic and generates more nuanced results. Pragmatists counter that the coin method is equally valid and far more practical for modern life.

Beyond the mechanics, there's the art of interpretation: understanding changing lines (lines that transform from yin to yang or vice versa), reading the judgment and image texts, and integrating the I Ching's wisdom into your decision-making. And there's the deeper question: how does the I Ching compare to tarot? Both are ancient wisdom systems, both use symbols and synchronicity, but they approach guidance in fundamentally different ways.

This is your practical guide to consulting the I Ching—from the ritual to the reading, from the hexagram to the insight.

What you'll learn: The traditional yarrow stalk method (50 stalks, complex ritual, meditative process), the simplified three-coin method (quick, accessible, mathematically equivalent), how to interpret changing lines and derive hexagrams, how to read the judgment, image, and line texts, modern applications (business, therapy, personal growth), and how the I Ching compares to tarot as a wisdom tool.

Disclaimer: This is educational content about I Ching consultation methods and interpretation, NOT claims about supernatural prediction. The I Ching is presented as a tool for reflection, decision-making, and accessing intuition.

The Traditional Method: 50 Yarrow Stalks

What You Need

Materials: 50 yarrow stalks (traditionally from the yarrow plant, Achillea millefolium). Modern alternatives: bamboo sticks, wooden dowels, or specially made I Ching sticks. A clean, quiet space (free from distractions). A cloth or mat (to work on—traditionally silk). An I Ching text (for interpretation). Time and patience (the process takes 15-30 minutes per hexagram).

Why Yarrow?: Yarrow is a sacred plant in Chinese tradition. It's associated with longevity, divination, and spiritual clarity. The stalks are straight, uniform, and easy to manipulate. Using yarrow connects you to thousands of years of tradition.

The Process (Simplified Overview)

The Goal: Generate six lines (a hexagram) by repeatedly dividing the yarrow stalks. Each line can be: Old yang (9): ⚊ changing to ⚋ (yang line that will transform to yin). Young yang (7): ⚊ stable (yang line that doesn't change). Old yin (6): ⚋ changing to ⚊ (yin line that will transform to yang). Young yin (8): ⚋ stable (yin line that doesn't change).

Step-by-Step (Traditional Method):

1. Preparation: Set aside one stalk (leaving 49 to work with—the one stalk represents the Dao, the unchanging). Divide the 49 stalks randomly into two piles (left and right).

2. First Operation: Take one stalk from the right pile and place it between the little finger and ring finger of your left hand. Count out the left pile by fours, setting aside groups of four. The remainder (1, 2, 3, or 4 stalks) goes between your ring finger and middle finger. Count out the right pile by fours. The remainder goes between your middle finger and index finger. The total number of stalks in your left hand (between fingers) will be 5 or 9. Set these aside.

3. Second and Third Operations: Repeat the process twice more with the remaining stalks. After three operations, you'll have set aside stalks totaling either: 9 + 8 + 8 = 25 (leaving 24, which ÷ 4 = 6 = old yin). 9 + 8 + 4 = 21 (leaving 28, which ÷ 4 = 7 = young yang). 9 + 4 + 8 = 21 (leaving 28, which ÷ 4 = 7 = young yang). 9 + 4 + 4 = 17 (leaving 32, which ÷ 4 = 8 = young yin). 5 + 8 + 8 = 21 (leaving 28, which ÷ 4 = 7 = young yang). 5 + 8 + 4 = 17 (leaving 32, which ÷ 4 = 8 = young yin). 5 + 4 + 8 = 17 (leaving 32, which ÷ 4 = 8 = young yin). 5 + 4 + 4 = 13 (leaving 36, which ÷ 4 = 9 = old yang).

4. Record the Line: The number (6, 7, 8, or 9) determines the first line (bottom line of the hexagram). Record it.

5. Repeat Five More Times: Perform the entire process six times (once for each line). Build the hexagram from bottom to top.

6. Identify the Hexagram: Look up the hexagram in the I Ching (using a lookup table or chart). If there are changing lines (6s or 9s), note them.

Why the Yarrow Stalk Method?

Meditative: The process is slow and deliberate. It creates a meditative state (focusing the mind, calming distractions). The ritual itself is part of the divination (not just a means to an end).

Probabilistic Nuance: The yarrow stalk method generates changing lines less frequently than the coin method. Old yang (9): 3/16 probability. Young yang (7): 5/16 probability. Young yin (8): 7/16 probability. Old yin (6): 1/16 probability. This creates a bias toward stable lines (young yang and young yin are more common). Changing lines are rarer and thus more significant when they appear.

Traditional Authenticity: This is how the I Ching was consulted for thousands of years. Using yarrow stalks connects you to the lineage of sages, scholars, and seekers.

The Challenges

Time-Consuming: The process takes 15-30 minutes (or longer if you're new to it). Not practical for quick consultations or busy modern life.

Complex: The counting and dividing can be confusing (especially at first). Errors are easy to make (miscounting, losing track).

Materials: You need 50 yarrow stalks (or substitutes) and a suitable space. Not as portable as coins.

The Simplified Method: Three Coins

What You Need

Materials: Three identical coins (traditionally Chinese coins with a square hole, but any coins work). An I Ching text (for interpretation). A quiet moment (the process takes 2-5 minutes).

Why Coins?: The coin method was developed as a simplified alternative to yarrow stalks. It's faster, more accessible, and portable. It's been used for centuries (though not as long as yarrow stalks). It's mathematically designed to approximate the yarrow stalk probabilities (though not exactly).

The Process

Step 1: Assign Values Each coin has two sides: Heads (yang side): Value = 3. Tails (yin side): Value = 2. (If using Chinese coins: the side with characters = yang/3, the blank side = yin/2.)

Step 2: Formulate Your Question Be specific and clear. Examples: "What do I need to know about this job opportunity?" "How should I approach this relationship conflict?" "What is the nature of my current situation?" Hold the question in your mind as you cast the coins.

Step 3: Cast the Coins (First Line) Hold the three coins in your hands. Focus on your question. Toss the coins. Add up the values: 3 heads (3+3+3 = 9): Old yang ⚊ → (changing line). 2 heads, 1 tail (3+3+2 = 8): Young yin ⚋ (stable line). 1 head, 2 tails (3+2+2 = 7): Young yang ⚊ (stable line). 3 tails (2+2+2 = 6): Old yin ⚋ → (changing line). Record the line (this is the bottom line of your hexagram).

Step 4: Repeat Five More Times Cast the coins six times total (once for each line). Build the hexagram from bottom to top. Record each line and note any changing lines (6s or 9s).

Step 5: Identify the Hexagram Use a lookup table or chart to find your hexagram. If you have changing lines, you'll also derive a second hexagram (the transformed hexagram).

Example Consultation

Question: "Should I accept this new job offer?"

Coin Tosses:
Line 1 (bottom): 3+3+2 = 8 (young yin ⚋)
Line 2: 3+2+2 = 7 (young yang ⚊)
Line 3: 2+2+2 = 6 (old yin ⚋ →, changing)
Line 4: 3+3+3 = 9 (old yang ⚊ →, changing)
Line 5: 3+3+2 = 8 (young yin ⚋)
Line 6 (top): 3+2+2 = 7 (young yang ⚊)

Primary Hexagram: ⚊⚋⚊→⚋→⚋⚊ (reading bottom to top). Look this up in the I Ching to identify the hexagram number and name.

Changing Lines: Lines 3 and 4 are changing. These lines transform: Line 3: ⚋ → becomes ⚊. Line 4: ⚊ → becomes ⚋.

Transformed Hexagram: ⚊⚋⚋⚊⚋⚊ (after the changes). This is your second hexagram (showing the future or outcome).

Why the Coin Method?

Quick and Accessible: Takes 2-5 minutes (vs. 15-30 for yarrow stalks). Can be done anywhere (at home, in a café, on a lunch break). No special materials needed (just three coins).

Equally Valid: The coin method is not a "lesser" version. It's been used for centuries and is accepted by scholars and practitioners. The probabilities are slightly different from yarrow stalks, but the principle is the same (generating a hexagram through a random process).

Practical for Modern Life: Most people don't have time for the yarrow stalk ritual. The coin method makes the I Ching accessible to busy, modern seekers.

The Probabilistic Difference

Coin Method Probabilities: Old yang (9): 2/16 = 1/8. Young yang (7): 6/16 = 3/8. Young yin (8): 6/16 = 3/8. Old yin (6): 2/16 = 1/8.

Comparison to Yarrow Stalks: The coin method generates changing lines more frequently (1/8 vs. 3/16 for old yang, 1/8 vs. 1/16 for old yin). This means more dynamic readings (more transformation, more movement). Some traditionalists prefer the yarrow stalk bias (fewer changing lines = more stability). Others see the coin method's dynamism as appropriate for modern life (which is faster-paced and more changeable).

Interpreting the Hexagram

The Structure of Interpretation

Four Levels of Text: 1. The Hexagram Name and Number: Example: Hexagram 1, Qian (乾), The Creative. The name gives you the theme or essence. 2. The Judgment (Tuan): King Wen's text—the overall meaning of the hexagram. Example (Hexagram 1): "The Creative works sublime success, furthering through perseverance." 3. The Image (Xiang): A poetic description and advice. Example (Hexagram 1): "The movement of heaven is full of power. Thus the superior man makes himself strong and untiring." 4. The Line Texts: Specific guidance for each of the six lines. Only read the line texts for changing lines (if you have any).

Reading Changing Lines

What Are Changing Lines?: Lines that transform (old yang → young yin, old yin → young yang). They represent: The dynamic element of your situation (what's in flux, what's transforming). The key to understanding the reading (the most important lines). The bridge between the present (primary hexagram) and the future (transformed hexagram).

How to Read Them: If you have one changing line: Read the judgment and image of the primary hexagram. Read the line text for the changing line (this is the most important guidance). Optionally, look at the transformed hexagram (for insight into the outcome or future).

If you have multiple changing lines: Read the judgment and image of the primary hexagram. Read the line texts for all changing lines (in order, from bottom to top). Some traditions say: focus on the top changing line (if there are many). Or read all of them and synthesize the guidance. Look at the transformed hexagram (it shows where the situation is heading).

If you have no changing lines: The situation is stable (no transformation imminent). Read the judgment and image of the primary hexagram. The guidance is straightforward (no need to consider a second hexagram).

Example Interpretation

Question: "Should I accept this new job offer?"

Primary Hexagram: Hexagram 14, Da You (大有), Possession in Great Measure.

Judgment: "Possession in Great Measure. Supreme success."

Image: "Fire in heaven above: the image of Possession in Great Measure. Thus the superior man curbs evil and furthers good, and thereby obeys the benevolent will of heaven."

Interpretation: The hexagram suggests abundance, success, and alignment with the greater good. The job offer may bring prosperity and fulfillment. However, the image warns: use this abundance wisely ("curbs evil and furthers good"). Don't let success lead to arrogance or selfishness.

Changing Lines (Lines 3 and 4):

Line 3: "A prince offers it to the Son of Heaven. A petty man cannot do this." Interpretation: Share your success with others (don't hoard it). Be generous and collaborative (not selfish). This job may require you to work with or for someone in authority (offer your skills humbly).

Line 4: "He makes a difference between himself and his neighbor. No blame." Interpretation: Maintain healthy boundaries (don't overextend yourself). It's okay to prioritize your own needs (while still being generous). The job may require balancing collaboration with independence.

Transformed Hexagram: Hexagram 26, Da Chu (大畜), The Taming Power of the Great.

Judgment: "The Taming Power of the Great. Perseverance furthers. Not eating at home brings good fortune. It furthers one to cross the great water."

Interpretation: The outcome hexagram suggests: Restraint and discipline will be important ("taming power"). The job will require you to step outside your comfort zone ("not eating at home," "cross the great water"). But this is positive (it brings growth and good fortune). Overall reading: The job offer is auspicious. Accept it, but: Be generous and collaborative (Line 3). Maintain boundaries (Line 4). Embrace the challenge and growth it will bring (Hexagram 26).

Modern Applications

Business and Strategy

Decision-Making: Executives and entrepreneurs use the I Ching for: Timing (when to launch, pivot, or retreat). Strategy (how to approach a negotiation, competitor, or market). Risk assessment (is this venture aligned with the flow of change?). The I Ching doesn't give yes/no answers. It provides context, perspective, and wisdom.

Example: A CEO considering a merger consults the I Ching. She receives Hexagram 12, Pi (否), Standstill. The judgment warns: "Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior man. The great departs; the small approaches." Interpretation: This is not the right time for the merger. The energies are blocked. Wait for a more auspicious moment.

Therapy and Personal Growth

Jungian Analysis: Some therapists use the I Ching as a tool for: Exploring the unconscious (the hexagram reveals hidden thoughts or feelings). Clarifying complex emotions (breaking down a tangled situation). Accessing intuition (bypassing overthinking). The I Ching is not a substitute for therapy—but it can complement it.

Example: A client struggling with a relationship consults the I Ching. She receives Hexagram 37, Jia Ren (家人), The Family. The judgment emphasizes: "The Family. The perseverance of the woman furthers." Interpretation: The issue may be rooted in family dynamics (past or present). The solution involves nurturing, patience, and feminine energy (receptivity, not force). The therapist and client explore family patterns and how they're affecting the relationship.

Daily Guidance

Morning Consultation: Some people consult the I Ching each morning: "What do I need to know today?" "What energy should I embody?" "What challenge or opportunity awaits?" The hexagram provides a theme or focus for the day.

Journaling: Record your consultations in a journal: Date, question, hexagram, interpretation, outcome (what actually happened). Over time, patterns emerge (certain hexagrams recur, certain themes repeat). This deepens your relationship with the I Ching (and with yourself).

I Ching vs. Tarot: A Dialogue of Wisdom

Similarities

Both Are Symbol Systems: Tarot: 78 cards with archetypal images. I Ching: 64 hexagrams with poetic texts. Both use symbols to trigger insight and intuition.

Both Work Through Synchronicity: The card you draw or the hexagram you generate is not random—it's meaningful. Jung's synchronicity applies to both (the outer event reflects the inner state).

Both Are Tools for Reflection: Neither predicts the future with certainty. Both help you: Clarify your thoughts and feelings. Explore options and perspectives. Access intuition and wisdom.

Differences

Structure: Tarot: 78 discrete cards (each with its own meaning). Readings involve multiple cards (spreads). I Ching: 64 hexagrams (each a combination of yin and yang lines). Readings focus on one or two hexagrams (primary and transformed).

Philosophy: Tarot: Western esoteric tradition (Kabbalah, alchemy, astrology, Hermeticism). Archetypal psychology (Jungian). I Ching: Chinese philosophy (Confucianism, Daoism, yin-yang cosmology). Change and transformation (the only constant is change).

Tone: Tarot: Visual, immediate, emotionally evocative. The images speak directly to the unconscious. I Ching: Textual, poetic, contemplative. Requires interpretation and reflection (less immediate, more meditative).

Use Cases: Tarot: Better for: Exploring emotions and relationships. Storytelling (the cards create a narrative). Quick, intuitive readings. I Ching: Better for: Understanding change and timing. Strategic decision-making. Philosophical contemplation.

Which Should You Use?

Personal Preference: Some people resonate with tarot (visual, archetypal, Western). Others prefer the I Ching (textual, philosophical, Eastern). Try both and see which speaks to you.

Use Both: They're complementary, not mutually exclusive. Consult tarot for emotional insight and storytelling. Consult the I Ching for strategic guidance and understanding change. Together, they offer a complete toolkit for wisdom and divination.

Conclusion: The Conversation Continues

Consulting the I Ching is not about getting answers. It's about asking better questions. It's not about predicting the future. It's about understanding the present and navigating change with wisdom.

Whether you use yarrow stalks or coins, whether you consult it daily or once in a lifetime, the I Ching offers the same gift: a conversation with change. The hexagrams speak. You listen. And in that dialogue, clarity emerges.

The I Ching doesn't tell you what to do. It shows you where you are, where you're going, and what you need to know. The rest is up to you.

In the next article, we'll explore scrying—the ancient art of gazing into crystal balls, mirrors, and water to induce visions, from Egyptian water bowls to Aztec obsidian mirrors to John Dee's angelic conversations.

Fifty stalks. Three coins. Six lines. One hexagram. The question is asked. The ritual is performed. The answer emerges—not from the stalks or the coins, but from the space between question and response, between intention and randomness, between you and the universe. The I Ching speaks. But you are the one who listens, who interprets, who acts. The wisdom is not in the book. It's in the conversation. And the conversation never ends.

As you deepen your divination practice, whether drawn to the patient rhythm of yarrow stalks or the swift clarity of coins, you might find your journey illuminated further through complementary tools — explore the profound questions in our tarot journaling prompts 100 questions for self discovery to reflect on your readings, enhance your personal inquiry with the shadow work tarot internal locus practice guide for uncovering hidden patterns, or ground your ritual space with the sacred space cleanse printable energy clearing ritual kit to invite clear and receptive energy before each consultation.